Thailand trip: What to do if visa-free stay drops from 60 to 30 days?
by Anto337
Translated into English.
Original post
Hey everyone, hope you're doing well! :)
I’m planning to go back to Thailand at the start of next year—once just wasn’t enough 😅
I’ve seen that nothing’s official yet, but they’re considering reducing the visa-free stay from 60 to 30 days. If I book for 58 days like last time and they change the rules last minute, what happens?
It takes forever to get a visa—I saw you have to prove you have enough funds to cover your stay. How much money do you need in your account?
Thanks!
Hi,
You just need to make a round trip to Malaysia (3 months visa-free) to reset the counter to zero.
Best regards,
JPBRIERE
La vie ne vaut rien mais rien ne vaut la vie
It takes a long time to get a visa—I saw that you have to prove you have the means to support yourself while there. How much money do you need in your account?
Thanks!
I’d advise against moving to Thailand right now, given the political situation with Cambodia. As far as we know, there are 138,000 displaced people at the moment. If it’s just for a few days, that’s fine, but if it’s for three months, things could get worse. If China or Russia decides to support Cambodia militarily—it’s an old communist dictatorship—who knows where this is headed. You’ve been warned, as they say.
I’d advise against moving to Thailand right now, given the political situation with Cambodia. As far as we know, there are 138,000 displaced people at the moment. If it’s just for a few days, that’s fine, but if it’s for three months, things could get worse. If China or Russia decides to support Cambodia militarily—it’s an old communist dictatorship—who knows where this is headed. You’ve been warned, as they say.
Hi there,
You can simply apply for a 30-day visa extension for 1,900 baht (50 €) at an immigration office in Bangkok or elsewhere. Don’t wait until the last day—go about a week before your 30-day visa exemption ends. But for now, there’s no official announcement about the end of the 60-day stay. Keep an eye on the news, though, as tensions with Cambodia are heating up.
You can simply apply for a 30-day visa extension for 1,900 baht (50 €) at an immigration office in Bangkok or elsewhere. Don’t wait until the last day—go about a week before your 30-day visa exemption ends. But for now, there’s no official announcement about the end of the 60-day stay. Keep an eye on the news, though, as tensions with Cambodia are heating up.
Cordialement,
Patrick.
As mentioned before, you’ll be allowed 30 days extendable by another 30. But if it does actually drop to 30 days, to be sure you can board in Paris, buy a one-way ticket to a neighboring country.
Hi there,
Right now, it’s a visa exemption for 60 days.
Don’t forget to fill out the DTAC online for Thai immigration at least 72 hours before your trip.
Some airlines might ask you to show this document.
aroythai
Hi there,
Could you please stop posting nonsense?!!!
The situation in Thailand isn’t dramatic.
With your comments, you’re spreading misinformation.
If it’s just to spout rubbish, don’t reply anymore
aroythai
In theory, things could still escalate, but it’s not the most likely outcome.
Apparently, high-ranking Cambodian officials have financial interests in clandestine call centers on their territory, which scam people over the phone and sometimes even kidnap Thais and Chinese from Thai soil. This little conflict is a last-resort tactic to divert attention. Don’t pay too much attention to our grumpy friend—it’s just age talking, but deep down, he’s a good guy. 😉
Apparently, high-ranking Cambodian officials have financial interests in clandestine call centers on their territory, which scam people over the phone and sometimes even kidnap Thais and Chinese from Thai soil. This little conflict is a last-resort tactic to divert attention. Don’t pay too much attention to our grumpy friend—it’s just age talking, but deep down, he’s a good guy. 😉
« Tout le monde s'interroge sur comment laisser une meilleure planète à nos enfants, mais on devrait plutôt penser à laisser de meilleurs enfants pour notre planète. » Clint Eastwood
Cambodia has called for an "immediate" and "unconditional" ceasefire with Thailand during an emergency meeting of the UN Security Council on the clashes between the two neighbors, according to its ambassador to the UN.
Thailand warned on Friday that the deadly conflict with Cambodia could escalate into a "war" just before the emergency UN Security Council meeting, amid clashes that have led to the evacuation of nearly 140,000 Thais.
La vie ne vaut rien mais rien ne vaut la vie
We French kinda messed up when we drew the border back in 1907... given the lay of the land, Preah Vihear is clearly on the Thai side, up on the cliff overlooking the Cambodian plain.
Hello
Please stop writing nonsense!!!!
The situation in Thailand isn’t dramatic.
Your comments are spreading misinformation.
If you’re just going to spout nonsense, don’t reply anymore.
How am I writing nonsense? The fighting involves heavy weapons and artillery—are you keeping up with the news?
Right now, Thailand has declared martial law in some provinces bordering Cambodia. Did you know that? So a lot of young Thais risk being mobilized to the front lines. We’re already at 33 deaths, and the fighting isn’t close to stopping. If Putin supplies weapons to Cambodia—which he is—the conflict could start to look a lot like the Ukraine-Russia war. If Cambodia sends drones to Bangkok or vice versa, it could cause serious damage. So, moral of the story: if you’re an expat in Thailand, have a Plan B for returning to Europe. Tourism is going to take the hit.
After that, do what you want—you’re free.
How am I writing nonsense? The fighting involves heavy weapons and artillery—are you keeping up with the news?
Right now, Thailand has declared martial law in some provinces bordering Cambodia. Did you know that? So a lot of young Thais risk being mobilized to the front lines. We’re already at 33 deaths, and the fighting isn’t close to stopping. If Putin supplies weapons to Cambodia—which he is—the conflict could start to look a lot like the Ukraine-Russia war. If Cambodia sends drones to Bangkok or vice versa, it could cause serious damage. So, moral of the story: if you’re an expat in Thailand, have a Plan B for returning to Europe. Tourism is going to take the hit.
After that, do what you want—you’re free.
In theory, things can always escalate, but it’s not the most likely outcome.
Unfortunately for you and everyone else, the situation *is* escalating. The belligerents—and therefore the politicians—don’t give a damn about the ceasefire agreement. So it’s just the number of idealists left on this forum.
Unfortunately for you and everyone else, the situation *is* escalating. The belligerents—and therefore the politicians—don’t give a damn about the ceasefire agreement. So it’s just the number of idealists left on this forum.
Hello,
Can you please stop writing nonsense!!!!
The situation in Thailand isn’t dramatic.
With your comments, you’re spreading misinformation.
If you’re just going to talk rubbish, don’t reply anymore.
Maybe you should come back down to earth. How am I writing nonsense? The fighting involves heavy weapons and artillery—are you keeping up with the news?
Right now, Thailand has declared martial law in some provinces bordering Cambodia. Do you know that? So many young Thais risk being mobilized to go to the front. We’re already at 33 deaths, and the fighting isn’t about to stop. If Putin supplies weapons to Cambodia—which he is—the conflict could start to look like the Ukraine-Russia war. If Cambodia sends drones to Bangkok or vice versa, it could cause serious damage. So, the moral of the story: if you’re an expat in Thailand, have a Plan B to return to Europe. Tourism is going to take a hit.
After that, do what you want—you’re free.
Hello, Yes, in your messages, you’re telling French residents to leave Thailand for another plan. Personally, I live in Thailand for 9 to 10 months a year. I often meet French residents who’ve been living here for many years, from all kinds of social backgrounds. I don’t know any who’d want to leave Thailand (and go where, anyway?). Sure, conflicts exist with neighboring countries (they have for ages). But practically advising residents to leave? You’d need to be serious to make such claims. If you were a resident in Thailand, I think you’d consider a different tone.
Maybe you should come back down to earth. How am I writing nonsense? The fighting involves heavy weapons and artillery—are you keeping up with the news?
Right now, Thailand has declared martial law in some provinces bordering Cambodia. Do you know that? So many young Thais risk being mobilized to go to the front. We’re already at 33 deaths, and the fighting isn’t about to stop. If Putin supplies weapons to Cambodia—which he is—the conflict could start to look like the Ukraine-Russia war. If Cambodia sends drones to Bangkok or vice versa, it could cause serious damage. So, the moral of the story: if you’re an expat in Thailand, have a Plan B to return to Europe. Tourism is going to take a hit.
After that, do what you want—you’re free.
Hello, Yes, in your messages, you’re telling French residents to leave Thailand for another plan. Personally, I live in Thailand for 9 to 10 months a year. I often meet French residents who’ve been living here for many years, from all kinds of social backgrounds. I don’t know any who’d want to leave Thailand (and go where, anyway?). Sure, conflicts exist with neighboring countries (they have for ages). But practically advising residents to leave? You’d need to be serious to make such claims. If you were a resident in Thailand, I think you’d consider a different tone.
aroythai
I’ll say it again—do what you want, you’re free.
If you were a resident in Thailand, I think you’d consider another language
What language are we talking about? You know as well as I do, given the global political situation, that everything can collapse overnight, right? Again, the consequences of this crisis are the impact on tourism, which the economies of Thailand and Cambodia heavily depend on.
If you were a resident in Thailand, I think you’d consider another language
What language are we talking about? You know as well as I do, given the global political situation, that everything can collapse overnight, right? Again, the consequences of this crisis are the impact on tourism, which the economies of Thailand and Cambodia heavily depend on.
I’ll say it again—do what you want, you’re free
If you were a resident in Thailand, I think you’d consider another language
What language are we talking about? You know as well as I do, given the global political situation, that everything can collapse overnight, right? Again, the consequences of this crisis are the impact on tourism, which Thailand’s and Cambodia’s economies heavily depend on.
Hi, Residents are adults and don’t need advice or comments about them.
If you were a resident in Thailand, I think you’d consider another language
What language are we talking about? You know as well as I do, given the global political situation, that everything can collapse overnight, right? Again, the consequences of this crisis are the impact on tourism, which Thailand’s and Cambodia’s economies heavily depend on.
Hi, Residents are adults and don’t need advice or comments about them.
aroythai
hi
Residents are adults and don’t need advice or comments about them
Even if the local economy is struggling? You’re not really free in life...
Residents are adults and don’t need advice or comments about them
Even if the local economy is struggling? You’re not really free in life...
Anyway, our fellow citizens can’t go back to France since it seems Russia is going to attack us. Ha ha ha
« Tout le monde s'interroge sur comment laisser une meilleure planète à nos enfants, mais on devrait plutôt penser à laisser de meilleurs enfants pour notre planète. » Clint Eastwood
hello
Residents are adults and don’t need advice or observations about them
Even if the local economy is struggling? You’re not really free in life...
Alright, I give up!!!! Too much.....
Residents are adults and don’t need advice or observations about them
Even if the local economy is struggling? You’re not really free in life...
Alright, I give up!!!! Too much.....
aroythai
Anyway, our fellow citizens can’t go back to France since it seems Russia is going to attack us. Ha ha ha
How many degrees of humor is that???
How many degrees of humor is that???
aroythai
The local economy is doing well—it's the low season for tourism, like every year.
I live in Thailand and can assure you there are no rationing tickets. 🙂
Just avoid areas where there are occasional gunfire exchanges, like you’d avoid the three separatist provinces in the deep south.
Alright, I give up!!!!
Too much.....
Why are you coming after me? I’m not responsible for this situation at all.
Why are you coming after me? I’m not responsible for this situation at all.
Anyway, our fellow citizens can’t return to France since it seems Russia is going to attack us. Ha ha ha
Do you know of any country where, while some people are lounging on the beach, others are practically shooting at each other right next door? I don’t. And I wouldn’t be surprised if the authorities shortened visa durations or even suspended visa issuance altogether.
Do you know of any country where, while some people are lounging on the beach, others are practically shooting at each other right next door? I don’t. And I wouldn’t be surprised if the authorities shortened visa durations or even suspended visa issuance altogether.
It almost sounds like you're confusing Thailand with Ukraine.
Besides, your reaction is quite logical—it can be seen as reasonable, but with all due respect, it’s a bit sheep-like. Indeed, as soon as something out of the ordinary happens, a wave of booking cancellations follows. I’ve seen this happen many times. Either people are ultra-cautious, or they’re a bit cowardly. Most of the time, the predicted apocalypse doesn’t happen. Personal anecdote: I wasn’t keen on visiting Egypt in July 2011, just two months after the Tahrir Square events. To my embarrassment, I must admit my wife was braver than I was. She managed to convince me—or at least I trusted her intuition. Once there, we did see a few buildings burned from the riots. It was very recent. Most importantly, the concrete result of our "audacity" and the cowardice of others was this: 30 boats on the Nile instead of 300, and sites where we were sometimes almost alone. Absolutely unforgettable.
So far, there have always been more or less severe skirmishes at the border (28 deaths 14 years ago), but it has never escalated into a large-scale conflict. I don’t think Cambodian leaders feel their army is strong enough compared to Thai forces—it’s a bit like Switzerland facing France. As mentioned before, there are other underlying mafia-like motives on the Cambodian side, and that’s truly criminal. As always, it’s mostly innocent people who suffer.
As for expats, their biggest fear would be having to return, even temporarily, to their home country, where 10,397 knife attacks (reported) were recorded in 2024.
Besides, your reaction is quite logical—it can be seen as reasonable, but with all due respect, it’s a bit sheep-like. Indeed, as soon as something out of the ordinary happens, a wave of booking cancellations follows. I’ve seen this happen many times. Either people are ultra-cautious, or they’re a bit cowardly. Most of the time, the predicted apocalypse doesn’t happen. Personal anecdote: I wasn’t keen on visiting Egypt in July 2011, just two months after the Tahrir Square events. To my embarrassment, I must admit my wife was braver than I was. She managed to convince me—or at least I trusted her intuition. Once there, we did see a few buildings burned from the riots. It was very recent. Most importantly, the concrete result of our "audacity" and the cowardice of others was this: 30 boats on the Nile instead of 300, and sites where we were sometimes almost alone. Absolutely unforgettable.
So far, there have always been more or less severe skirmishes at the border (28 deaths 14 years ago), but it has never escalated into a large-scale conflict. I don’t think Cambodian leaders feel their army is strong enough compared to Thai forces—it’s a bit like Switzerland facing France. As mentioned before, there are other underlying mafia-like motives on the Cambodian side, and that’s truly criminal. As always, it’s mostly innocent people who suffer.
As for expats, their biggest fear would be having to return, even temporarily, to their home country, where 10,397 knife attacks (reported) were recorded in 2024.
« Tout le monde s'interroge sur comment laisser une meilleure planète à nos enfants, mais on devrait plutôt penser à laisser de meilleurs enfants pour notre planète. » Clint Eastwood
It almost sounds like you're confusing Thailand with Ukraine.
.
yeah. There are strong similarities. Earthquake rightly mentions separatist provinces.
Personal anecdote: I wasn’t keen on visiting Egypt in July 2011 [..]
I think my previous message was misunderstood. The decision to travel to Cambodia or Thailand isn’t yours—it depends on the authorities given the situation. Authorities could very well decide to temporarily suspend visa issuance, and your stay in Thailand or Cambodia, right?
yeah. There are strong similarities. Earthquake rightly mentions separatist provinces.
Personal anecdote: I wasn’t keen on visiting Egypt in July 2011 [..]
I think my previous message was misunderstood. The decision to travel to Cambodia or Thailand isn’t yours—it depends on the authorities given the situation. Authorities could very well decide to temporarily suspend visa issuance, and your stay in Thailand or Cambodia, right?
On June 15, 1962, the International Court of Justice in The Hague ruled by 9 votes to 3 that Preah Vihear belonged to Cambodia[8] and by 7 votes to 5 that Thailand had to return all antiquities, particularly the sculptures, that had been taken from the temple[9]. In its decision, the court noted that during the five decades following the establishment of the map, Siamese and Thai authorities had never protested to any international body about the temple's location. They also hadn’t raised any objections when, in 1930, a French colonial official received Prince Damrong Rajanubhab, a high-ranking Siamese dignitary, at Preah Vihear. Furthermore, according to the court, Thailand had accepted and benefited from other elements of the border treaty[10]. From all this, it follows that Thailand had accepted the map and, as a result, the temple rightfully belonged to Cambodia.
aroythai
you know a country where while some people are lounging on the beach, almost next door others are shooting at each other?
Egypt, a good part of South America, Marseille.
Egypt, a good part of South America, Marseille.
« Tout le monde s'interroge sur comment laisser une meilleure planète à nos enfants, mais on devrait plutôt penser à laisser de meilleurs enfants pour notre planète. » Clint Eastwood
On June 15, 1962, the International Court of Justice in The Hague ruled by 9 votes to 3 that Preah Vihear belonged to Cambodia[8] and by 7 votes to 5 that Thailand had to return all the antiquities, including the sculptures, that had been taken from the temple[9]. In its decision, the court noted that during the five decades following the map’s establishment, Siamese and Thai authorities had never protested to any international body about the temple’s location. They also hadn’t raised any objections when, in 1930, a French colonial official received Prince Damrong Rajanubhab, a high Siamese dignitary, at Preah Vihear. Furthermore, according to the court, Thailand had accepted and benefited from other elements of the border treaty[10]. From all this, it follows that Thailand had accepted the map and, as a result, the temple rightfully belonged to Cambodia.
Sure, but from a topographical point of view, it would make sense for it to be on the Thai side…
I went there a long time ago, but I have a clear memory of the place. And one of the most beautiful temples I’ve ever seen.
Sure, but from a topographical point of view, it would make sense for it to be on the Thai side…
I went there a long time ago, but I have a clear memory of the place. And one of the most beautiful temples I’ve ever seen.
"True, but from a topographical standpoint, it would make sense for it to be on the Thai side.".....
Hi there, So I invite you to visit this lovely temple And to display a nice Thai flag
Hi there, So I invite you to visit this lovely temple And to display a nice Thai flag
aroythai
It’s in the plans to go back… gotta wait a while, maybe even a few years. The Cambodians won’t let go just like that.Admit you were a bit alarmist about this one 😇
« Tout le monde s'interroge sur comment laisser une meilleure planète à nos enfants, mais on devrait plutôt penser à laisser de meilleurs enfants pour notre planète. » Clint Eastwood
There are fewer tourists, so the state is making less money. The minor conflict, some local incidents, the appeal of other countries in the region, and in my opinion, the effects of inflation are the main causes.
It’s just been decided that there will be a two-year moratorium for expats who would have had to pay a tax. The 300 baht entry fee has been postponed, and right now, the reduction of the 60-day period is on hold.
Stay tuned, but at worst, you can add an extra month for a modest fee.
It’s just been decided that there will be a two-year moratorium for expats who would have had to pay a tax. The 300 baht entry fee has been postponed, and right now, the reduction of the 60-day period is on hold.
Stay tuned, but at worst, you can add an extra month for a modest fee.
« Tout le monde s'interroge sur comment laisser une meilleure planète à nos enfants, mais on devrait plutôt penser à laisser de meilleurs enfants pour notre planète. » Clint Eastwood
good evening,
There are fewer tourists, the state is making less money. The mini conflict.
hmm, mini conflict—there was heavy weapon fighting, though. Anyway, don’t kid yourself; taxes will go up, especially for expats and foreigners—that’s just how it works, and it’s what’s coming. Because they need to fund and allocate part of the GDP to buy weapons and maintain military resources. Those Swedish fighter jets aren’t cheap to buy or upkeep. What to do? Tax the local population? They don’t have the financial means to pay taxes. After tax revenues drop, Thailand will have to borrow money to fund its development.
There are fewer tourists, the state is making less money. The mini conflict.
hmm, mini conflict—there was heavy weapon fighting, though. Anyway, don’t kid yourself; taxes will go up, especially for expats and foreigners—that’s just how it works, and it’s what’s coming. Because they need to fund and allocate part of the GDP to buy weapons and maintain military resources. Those Swedish fighter jets aren’t cheap to buy or upkeep. What to do? Tax the local population? They don’t have the financial means to pay taxes. After tax revenues drop, Thailand will have to borrow money to fund its development.
Hi there,
Thailand isn’t going to buy fighter jets by taxing expats. And the more they raise taxes, the fewer expats there’ll be. They’ve tried it—we saw how that turned out. Thailand isn’t a third-world country. Sure, there are poor people, like everywhere, but there’s also a large middle class that pays taxes. The real risk is that they’ll raise the VAT, which is currently at 7%.
Thailand isn’t going to buy fighter jets by taxing expats. And the more they raise taxes, the fewer expats there’ll be. They’ve tried it—we saw how that turned out. Thailand isn’t a third-world country. Sure, there are poor people, like everywhere, but there’s also a large middle class that pays taxes. The real risk is that they’ll raise the VAT, which is currently at 7%.
uhhh mini conflict there were heavy weapon fights after all.
Meh, like in Marseille and the Paris region among others. No armored vehicles yet, but just wait. Despite that, tourists still came to France—though apparently fewer than in previous years.
Seen on a Thailand-focused site: " Observers accused Cambodia of provoking these tensions to create a diversion in the country while Hun Sen’s family circle was targeted by a U.S. investigation into call centers.
This could have been aimed at preventing the legalization of casinos in Thailand, to protect Cambodian casinos used for laundering money from call centers.
According to a United Nations report, fraudulent call centers contributed 40 to 60% of Cambodia’s gross domestic product. "
Interesting, right?
Meh, like in Marseille and the Paris region among others. No armored vehicles yet, but just wait. Despite that, tourists still came to France—though apparently fewer than in previous years.
Seen on a Thailand-focused site: " Observers accused Cambodia of provoking these tensions to create a diversion in the country while Hun Sen’s family circle was targeted by a U.S. investigation into call centers.
This could have been aimed at preventing the legalization of casinos in Thailand, to protect Cambodian casinos used for laundering money from call centers.
According to a United Nations report, fraudulent call centers contributed 40 to 60% of Cambodia’s gross domestic product. "
Interesting, right?
« Tout le monde s'interroge sur comment laisser une meilleure planète à nos enfants, mais on devrait plutôt penser à laisser de meilleurs enfants pour notre planète. » Clint Eastwood
Thailand isn’t a third-world country. Sure, there are poor people like everywhere, but there’s also a large middle class that pays taxes. The real risk is that they’ll raise the VAT, which is currently at 7%.
Hi, I wouldn’t want you to put words in my mouth—I never wrote that it was a third-world country since it’s an emerging one. Yes, it’s obvious that VAT might be increased. But it’s not certain that’ll be enough because not only does it require a budget aligned with defense needs, but also infrastructure to develop—roads, schools, etc. Otherwise, the other option is to borrow from investment funds. But public debt could rise, so we’ll have to see what the big rating agencies say.
Hi, I wouldn’t want you to put words in my mouth—I never wrote that it was a third-world country since it’s an emerging one. Yes, it’s obvious that VAT might be increased. But it’s not certain that’ll be enough because not only does it require a budget aligned with defense needs, but also infrastructure to develop—roads, schools, etc. Otherwise, the other option is to borrow from investment funds. But public debt could rise, so we’ll have to see what the big rating agencies say.
😨
It’s a border war over a few temples that’s been going on for decades—nothing new.
Don’t panic, and stay cool 😎
It’s a border war over a few temples that’s been going on for decades—nothing new.
Don’t panic, and stay cool 😎
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Anyone entering before this date will still get 60 days.
A return or onward ticket (flight, bus, train) is mandatory.
20,000 baht or the equivalent in cash may be requested by immigration (random checks).
Land entries with a 30-day visa exemption will be limited to 2 per calendar year.
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I’m planning a trip from France to Alberta/British Columbia, and I’m unsure about which bank card to use for the security deposit with the rental company (I’m thinking of going with AVIS).
I contacted Avis Canada, and they told me a credit card is absolutely required. I asked my bank for a credit card (a *real* credit card), but they only offered me a deferred debit card.
My question: For a rental with Avis Canada, is a Gold International Mastercard deferred debit card usable for the security deposit needed to finalize the rental? Is the "CREDIT" label enough? (Some cards say "CREDIT" and others say "CARTE DE CREDIT"—seems minor, but it’s actually a big deal in how the card works.)
I’ve seen conflicting info everywhere I look... My bank says it’s *usually* okay (the deferred debit card), while Avis Canada insists it *must* be a credit card, not debit—even when I mention the deferred debit card.
I know the whole credit card concept is already confusing, and on top of that, some sites say a deferred debit card counts as a credit card, while others say it doesn’t.
Thanks to anyone who can share a recent experience! Have a great day
I’m planning a trip from France to Alberta/British Columbia, and I’m unsure about which bank card to use for the security deposit with the rental company (I’m thinking of going with AVIS).
I contacted Avis Canada, and they told me a credit card is absolutely required. I asked my bank for a credit card (a *real* credit card), but they only offered me a deferred debit card.
My question: For a rental with Avis Canada, is a Gold International Mastercard deferred debit card usable for the security deposit needed to finalize the rental? Is the "CREDIT" label enough? (Some cards say "CREDIT" and others say "CARTE DE CREDIT"—seems minor, but it’s actually a big deal in how the card works.)
I’ve seen conflicting info everywhere I look... My bank says it’s *usually* okay (the deferred debit card), while Avis Canada insists it *must* be a credit card, not debit—even when I mention the deferred debit card.
I know the whole credit card concept is already confusing, and on top of that, some sites say a deferred debit card counts as a credit card, while others say it doesn’t.
Thanks to anyone who can share a recent experience! Have a great day
Hello everyone,
Could a resident of Benin (Cotonou) kindly let me know which is the best mobile phone and internet service provider?
Thank you very much,
Best regards,
Juan
Hi,
I’m bringing Seresta, an anxiolytic (tranquilizer) from the benzodiazepine family,
to help me sleep.
I’ll have the prescription with me.
Will this be a problem at customs, and do I need to declare it?
Same question for antibiotics?
Thanks a bunch!
Hi everyone,
I’ll explain my situation.
Unfortunately, I lost my passport, and I only realized it two weeks before my departure for a humanitarian mission in Libya. I’m a nurse, and this mission really means a lot to me.
First, I applied for an emergency passport, but it was denied by the Val-d'Oise prefecture on the grounds that a planned humanitarian mission wasn’t considered an urgent reason.
So, I submitted a biometric passport application on July 20th. Since then, the tracking has been stuck, and the town hall can’t (or won’t) give me any clear information. Every time I call, I get a different story. The last update I received was that the passport had been produced since July 23rd with a status of "about to be shipped," but nothing since then.
I’ve managed to push my departure back to next Tuesday at the latest, but I’m starting to really panic.
Have any of you submitted an application around July 20th, especially in Val-d'Oise (95)? How long did you wait between the passport being produced and it being available at the town hall? Is it normal for this step to take this long?
This mission means so much to me. I had everything organized, and I’m also supposed to attend a friend’s wedding right after near the border.
Thanks so much to those who take the time to respond or share their experience. 😔
Hi,
Can anyone tell me exactly if a passport "valid for the duration of the stay" is enough, or does it need to be valid for 6 months after the trip? I checked the embassy’s website, but that info is missing.
Thanks
Can anyone tell me exactly if a passport "valid for the duration of the stay" is enough, or does it need to be valid for 6 months after the trip? I checked the embassy’s website, but that info is missing.
Thanks
Hi there,
I’ll be arriving in Seoul on November 18th after spending about a month in India.
Do you know if I’ll need to fill out any additional documents besides the e-arrival card?
Thanks in advance for your tips!
Hi everyone,
I’m a bit embarrassed because I need to travel to Quebec from February 27th to March 13th. I’m a regular visitor to Canada—this will be my 10th trip since 1997, plus a year as a permanent resident (2000–2001) and a cross-country run from Vancouver to Halifax in 2011. So, I’m definitely not a terrorist! But since our last trip in July 2015, they’ve introduced this eTA thing. Seems more like a way to make money than to actually secure Canada, if you ask me, but anyway, that’s not the point. I applied for an eTA for myself, my wife, and our two kids. They all got approved within hours, but not me! I was asked to create a GC key and then an IRCC account, which I did. Normally, you get news within 72 hours, but since Monday, January 15th, nothing! In the "message" section of the account, it says "explanation letter (required)" with a deadline of January 25th, but I can’t find any explanation anywhere—despite searching the Canadian government website and Google. No links, nothing! I’ve emailed them but haven’t heard back yet. I’m thinking of calling the Canadian embassy in Paris tomorrow. Even though I’m not stressing yet, it’d be a bummer if everyone else got to go without me! If anyone’s had this issue before or knows what this explanation letter is about, I’d love to hear more.
I’m a bit embarrassed because I need to travel to Quebec from February 27th to March 13th. I’m a regular visitor to Canada—this will be my 10th trip since 1997, plus a year as a permanent resident (2000–2001) and a cross-country run from Vancouver to Halifax in 2011. So, I’m definitely not a terrorist! But since our last trip in July 2015, they’ve introduced this eTA thing. Seems more like a way to make money than to actually secure Canada, if you ask me, but anyway, that’s not the point. I applied for an eTA for myself, my wife, and our two kids. They all got approved within hours, but not me! I was asked to create a GC key and then an IRCC account, which I did. Normally, you get news within 72 hours, but since Monday, January 15th, nothing! In the "message" section of the account, it says "explanation letter (required)" with a deadline of January 25th, but I can’t find any explanation anywhere—despite searching the Canadian government website and Google. No links, nothing! I’ve emailed them but haven’t heard back yet. I’m thinking of calling the Canadian embassy in Paris tomorrow. Even though I’m not stressing yet, it’d be a bummer if everyone else got to go without me! If anyone’s had this issue before or knows what this explanation letter is about, I’d love to hear more.
hi there
I’m heading to Seoul in September, and to do that I need to get a travel authorization that we apply for through K-ETA....... turns out I can (barely, I admit) fill out the form up to the address of our "stay location," but every address I’ve entered has been rejected by the system. I’ve tried my hotel, the Lotte Hotel (which is well-known in Seoul), the airport—basically, I’ve entered at least 20 addresses, all rejected....
So, to anyone who’s successfully gotten the authorization, could you tell me which address you used to get that "elusive" approval?...
Thanks for your help
So, to anyone who’s successfully gotten the authorization, could you tell me which address you used to get that "elusive" approval?...
Thanks for your help
Hi there,
I’m heading to Senegal in January for a month and was wondering if I just need my French driver’s license or if I should get an international permit?
Thanks!
JL
Hi there,
I have a 9-seater passenger vehicle that I use for my business in Paris, transporting people.
I’m planning to go to Algeria with my family.
The vehicle registration lists my company as the owner.
Can I get a TPD (Temporary Admission Document)?
Will I need a KBis extract or a power of attorney?!?
Thanks for your help.
Worst case, I can add my personal name as a co-owner on the registration, but that would be a real shame!
Hi,
I’m writing to ask for some info—I’ve heard that you **must** have travel insurance to land in Zanzibar.
What’s the process, and which insurance should I get?
Thanks in advance for your feedback!
Best,
Seb
Hi, are there any travelers who’ve recently crossed the border between Karakalpakstan (Uzbekistan) and Beineu in Kazakhstan?
It was closed for a while.
Thanks for any info!
Hi there,
I bought a one-way flight (Ryanair) and a return flight (EasyJet) to spend a week in Morocco in April. My passport expires 3 weeks after the return date. Some websites say the passport must be valid for 3 months at the time of entry. However, it will still be valid both on entry and return, but its validity will only be 1 month at the time of entry (and 3 weeks on the return date, everything prepaid).
It's an individual family trip.
The consulate can't give me an answer—they're still looking into it (really!)
Will Ryanair let me board in Beauvais in 3 weeks?
Thanks for your advice—this is a bit urgent 😕😕😕😕
I bought a one-way flight (Ryanair) and a return flight (EasyJet) to spend a week in Morocco in April. My passport expires 3 weeks after the return date. Some websites say the passport must be valid for 3 months at the time of entry. However, it will still be valid both on entry and return, but its validity will only be 1 month at the time of entry (and 3 weeks on the return date, everything prepaid).
It's an individual family trip.
The consulate can't give me an answer—they're still looking into it (really!)
Will Ryanair let me board in Beauvais in 3 weeks?
Thanks for your advice—this is a bit urgent 😕😕😕😕
Hello,
Last year, we stayed for 3 months in Thailand, north of Khao Lak, and were able to benefit from the 2-month visa exemption, renewable for one month by going to Takua Pa to validate a 1-month extension (1,900 baht). This year, it’s a disaster for us—not only were we planning a 4-month stay, adding a visa run in between (which some say is quite risky), but the law is apparently changing in the coming months with the return of the 1-month exemption (plus the usual 1-month option). So, we looked into applying for a 6-month multiple-entry visa, allowing a maximum of 60 consecutive days in Thailand. However, I can’t find anywhere the minimum time required outside Thailand between two stays—do any of you have an idea? Thanks for the info! If you’d like tips on Khao Lak and the surrounding areas, we’ve got some experience, though things change fast! Cheers, Bruno.
Last year, we stayed for 3 months in Thailand, north of Khao Lak, and were able to benefit from the 2-month visa exemption, renewable for one month by going to Takua Pa to validate a 1-month extension (1,900 baht). This year, it’s a disaster for us—not only were we planning a 4-month stay, adding a visa run in between (which some say is quite risky), but the law is apparently changing in the coming months with the return of the 1-month exemption (plus the usual 1-month option). So, we looked into applying for a 6-month multiple-entry visa, allowing a maximum of 60 consecutive days in Thailand. However, I can’t find anywhere the minimum time required outside Thailand between two stays—do any of you have an idea? Thanks for the info! If you’d like tips on Khao Lak and the surrounding areas, we’ve got some experience, though things change fast! Cheers, Bruno.
Hi there,
My partner, our 8-year-old daughter, and I are going on vacation to Gex.
We’ve decided to spend one day in Switzerland and another in Italy. Will we need ID (national ID card or passport)? Do we also need ID for our daughter?
Thanks so much for your answers! 🙂
My partner, our 8-year-old daughter, and I are going on vacation to Gex.
We’ve decided to spend one day in Switzerland and another in Italy. Will we need ID (national ID card or passport)? Do we also need ID for our daughter?
Thanks so much for your answers! 🙂
Hi everyone,
Some French friends are visiting NYC (4/5 days around mid-May) from Montreal, Canada. They’ve got their eTA and ESTA approved!
Round-trip transport by bus.
Question: Is the I-94 form required, mandatory, and should it be filled out on the bus or in advance???
Thanks for your RECENT experiences!
See you, Jean.
Some French friends are visiting NYC (4/5 days around mid-May) from Montreal, Canada. They’ve got their eTA and ESTA approved!
Round-trip transport by bus.
Question: Is the I-94 form required, mandatory, and should it be filled out on the bus or in advance???
Thanks for your RECENT experiences!
See you, Jean.
Hello,
We’ll soon be moving to Madagascar long-term.
As a French national, I need to obtain a short-stay visa that can be converted to a long-stay one. To do this, I have to send the required documents to the Madagascar embassy in Paris.
No issues with that procedure so far.
If I get this visa, once I arrive in Madagascar, I’ll need to provide the same documents to the Ministry of the Interior in Anosy. I’m trying to find an email address or website for the Ministry to check which documents I need to submit (I think they ask for additional ones).
If you have any info on this, I’d appreciate your replies.
Best regards,
M. Buisson Eric
Hi there,
I’d like to know if anyone has already applied for a private visa to Russia with an invitation from a Russian resident. I traveled earlier this year with an e-visa, but since I want to stay longer, I’ll be visiting my friend who lives in eastern Russia. For the visa application, does the invitation need to be on an official paper form issued by the Russian ministry? And most importantly, do I need to present the original for the application, or is there an electronic version that can be sent directly to the consulate in France? Thanks for any info if you’ve gone through this process before!
Best regards,
Gilles
I’d like to know if anyone has already applied for a private visa to Russia with an invitation from a Russian resident. I traveled earlier this year with an e-visa, but since I want to stay longer, I’ll be visiting my friend who lives in eastern Russia. For the visa application, does the invitation need to be on an official paper form issued by the Russian ministry? And most importantly, do I need to present the original for the application, or is there an electronic version that can be sent directly to the consulate in France? Thanks for any info if you’ve gone through this process before!
Best regards,
Gilles
I filled out the B2 form to apply for a visa, created an account on Atvis to pay the visa fees and schedule a meet-up, but every time I try to pay with my Boursobank Visa 1st card, they refuse the payment with a message telling me to check my details (address), even though everything is correct. Does anyone know why this is happening, or maybe they don’t accept Visa cards? Are you aware of this?
Thanks for your feedback!
Elisabeth
Hi,
There are rumors going around about the ETA: it must absolutely be on your smartphone in the "ETA" app.
Paper documents might not be accepted. Is this real or just a hoax? Thanks, I’m leaving in 3 weeks. My passport is good to go and my ETA is still valid for a year, but I only printed the email I received. Thanks everyone.
There are rumors going around about the ETA: it must absolutely be on your smartphone in the "ETA" app.
Paper documents might not be accepted. Is this real or just a hoax? Thanks, I’m leaving in 3 weeks. My passport is good to go and my ETA is still valid for a year, but I only printed the email I received. Thanks everyone.
Hi there,
We need to apply for a B2 visa because we visited Iran in 2018. It currently costs $185, but they’re planning an additional $250 fee per person for the same visa—it’s been approved but not yet implemented. Does anyone know when this fee will take effect?
Thanks in advance!
Elisabeth
Hi there,
In November, we're heading off on a 4-month trip. We'll be landing in China and plan to leave the country via a land border into Vietnam.
I’ve read that China may ask for proof of exit within 30 days (flight ticket or other reservation). Since we’d be leaving by land, I’m wondering how this works in practice.
Has anyone here been in this situation recently?
Did the airline ask for an exit ticket before boarding? Did Chinese authorities require proof upon arrival? Is a train/bus ticket to Vietnam sufficient? Is a cancelable or flexible reservation accepted?
Thanks for sharing your experiences! 😊
Did the airline ask for an exit ticket before boarding? Did Chinese authorities require proof upon arrival? Is a train/bus ticket to Vietnam sufficient? Is a cancelable or flexible reservation accepted?
Thanks for sharing your experiences! 😊






