The visa run culture in Southeast Asia has been evolving and I want to give an updated picture of what's realistic in 2025.

Thailand: the 30-day visa exemption is still valid for most Western passports. Border-hopping via a visa run (typically to the Myanmar border at Mae Sai or the Cambodian border at Aranya Prathet and returning immediately) technically resets the counter but Thai immigration has become increasingly skeptical of travelers doing this repeatedly. After 3-4 entries in a 12-month period, additional entries may be refused at land borders. Air entries are treated more favorably.

The practical strategy for longer Thailand stays: get a proper Tourist Visa (TR, 60 days) from a Thai consulate before entering. Extend once for 30 days at an immigration office in Thailand for ฿1,900. This gives 90 days legally and properly.

For very long Thailand stays (6+ months): the education visa (ED) attached to a legitimate language school is the cleanest option. Legitimate Thai language schools in Chiang Mai offer courses that qualify. Cost is roughly $200-400/year for the course (you actually attend, if cursorily) plus immigration fees.

Vietnam: the 90-day e-visa with multiple entry has made Vietnam far simpler. No visa runs needed for most travelers. If you overstay, the fine is $5-10/day at the airport on departure — not expensive but worth avoiding.

Cambodia: the 30-day tourist visa can be extended for 30 days at a time at an immigration office for $30. Low-key process.