Job Discussion Forums

enigma61 · Joined: 29 Apr 2013 Posts: 8 Location: New Zealand

I have scored a temporary fill in job, teaching in Pattaya for 4 - 6 weeks. As I had time constraints, I have not been able to organise a proper VISA etc so will be using the 30 day VISA on arrival. I realise that I may need to do a VISA run to extend that. My Q is: Do I need proof of onward travel? I have heard that it is some airlines that require that (rather than immigration). Also - if I do need it, does it have to be air travel or will a train or bus ticket suffice?
Thanks in advance for any replies. Laughing

plumpy nut · Joined: 12 Mar 2011 Posts: 1652

You won't need proof of onward travel if you stick with the SE Asian airlines or China Air. You would have to avoid Korean Air or Asiana. Korean Air forced me to buy an onward ticket which was very unpleasant. I have quite a bit of experience with the other airlines in the region and you don't need to worry about them. The cheapest way to get a tourist visa or another type of visa is to take an overnight bus to Vientienne. You will have to spend the night in Vientienne because you turn your application in during the morning and pick your passport up the next day in the afternoon. Make sure to check for holidays because the embassy will not be open on Thai holidays. Be sure to bring US Dollars in good shape (not old or folded) for Lao Immigration when you arrive on the border or you will have to pay more for the Visa on arrival.