Performing a Visa Run from Thailand to Cambodia
To perform a visa run, take a bus or flight from Bangkok to the Poipet border crossing, exit Thailand, obtain a Cambodian visa, enter Cambodia, and immediately return through the border to re-enter Thailand. This process grants you a new 30-day or 60-day visa-exempt stamp, depending on your passport nationality.
- Book your transport to the border. Take the early morning train from Hua Lamphong or Krung Thep Aphiwat station in Bangkok to Aranyaprathet (approx. 250 THB). From the station, take a tuk-tuk to the border gate for 100 THB.
- Exit Thailand. Go to the Thai immigration office at the border. Submit your departure card and receive your exit stamp. Do not pay any 'fees' here; this is free.
- Enter Cambodia. Walk to the Cambodian Visa-on-Arrival office. Pay the $30 USD visa fee. Ensure you have a passport-sized photo; if you don't, they will charge you an extra $2-5 'fine'.
- Exit Cambodia. After getting your entry stamp, walk through the Cambodian immigration area. Turn around and head back to the exit office to stamp out of Cambodia immediately.
- Re-enter Thailand. Present your passport to the Thai immigration officer. You will receive a new stamp allowing you to stay in Thailand for your allotted visa-exempt period.
- Is it legal to do back-to-back visa runs?
- Technically, visa runs are at the discretion of the border officer. If you have too many previous entries, you may be questioned or denied.
- Can I use a credit card for the Cambodian visa?
- No, you must pay in cash. USD is preferred, though they will accept Thai Baht at a poor exchange rate.