Tourist visas to Thailand

Thailand is a popular tourist destination known for its picturesque beaches, rich culture, and friendly hospitality. When planning your trip, it is important to understand the current visa requirements, which may vary depending on the traveler's nationality.

Visa-free entry to Thailand

From July 15, 2024, Thailand expanded the list of countries whose citizens can visit the country without a visa, increasing it from 57 to 93 countries. Citizens of these countries can stay in Thailand for tourism and short-term business trips for up to 60 days, with the possibility of extending for another 30 days at the immigration office.

Note: The table below provides a list of countries whose citizens are exempt from visas, with the maximum length of stay indicated.

This list is not exhaustive. It is recommended that you check the current entry requirements for citizens of your country before traveling .

Conditions for visa-free stay:

●       Passport Validity: Passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry into Thailand.

●       Return ticket: You must have proof of a return ticket or a ticket to a third country within the established visa-free period.

●       Financial resources: It is recommended that you have sufficient financial resources for your stay in the country (e.g. cash, bank statements).

●       Proof of Accommodation: Proof of accommodation reservation for the duration of your stay may be required.

Visa on Arrival

Citizens of some countries not included in the visa-free entry list can obtain a visa on arrival in Thailand. This visa is issued for a maximum of 15 days and is intended for tourism purposes.

Note: The table below provides a list of countries whose citizens are eligible for a visa on arrival, with the maximum length of stay indicated.

This list is not exhaustive. It is recommended that you check the current entry requirements for citizens of your country before traveling .

Visa on arrival procedure:

Required documents:

●       A valid passport with a minimum validity of 30 days.

●       Completed visa application form.

●       One color photograph measuring 4 x 6 cm.

●       Confirmation of accommodation booking in Thailand.

●       A return ticket or a ticket to a third country confirming departure within 15 days.

●       Proof of sufficient financial resources (e.g. cash, bank statements).

●       Visa fee: 2,000 Thai Baht (approximately US$56), payable in cash upon arrival.

●       Application Points: Visa on arrival is available at international airports and other official entry points into Thailand.

It is recommended that you familiarize yourself with the current requirements in advance and prepare all necessary documents to speed up the visa on arrival process.

Types of Tourist Visas to Thailand

Depending on the purpose of the trip and the planned duration of stay in Thailand, foreign citizens can apply for a single-entry or multiple-entry tourist visa.

Single-Entry Tourist Visa

Description:
Single Entry Tourist Visa (SETV) is for short term stays with the possibility of entering Thailand only once.

It is issued for a period of 3 months from the date of receipt, but allows you to stay in the country for up to 60 days with the possibility of extension.

Terms of Use:

●       If a person leaves Thailand before the visa expires, it will be cancelled.

●       The visa can be extended for 30 days at the immigration office for 1900 baht.

Multiple-Entry Tourist Visa

Description:
This type of visa (METV) allows multiple entries and exits from Thailand during its validity. It is suitable for travelers who plan to return to Thailand regularly over several months.

The visa is issued for a period of 6 months, but each separate entry allows a stay of up to 60 days.

Terms of Use:

●       Each time before the end of the 60-day period of stay, you can leave and re-enter the country, receiving a new 60-day period.

●       An extension of 30 days can be obtained at the immigration office for 1900 baht.

Tourist visa extension procedure

Foreign nationals who wish to stay in Thailand longer without leaving can extend their tourist visa at the local immigration office.

Renewal conditions:

●       Additional period: +30 days to the current visa period.

●       Required documents: passport, TM6 migration card, proof of residence, 1 photo 4x6 cm, completed TM7 form.

●       Extension fee: 1900 baht.

●       Application submission location: nearest immigration office (e.g. Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai).

It is important to submit your application no later than a few days before your current visa expires, otherwise you may be subject to a late fee.

Visa Application Process

To apply for a tourist visa at a Thai consulate or embassy, you must prepare:

●       International passport (valid for at least 6 months);

●       A completed visa application form;

●       Two color photographs 3.5 x 4.5 cm;

●       Ticket to Thailand or travel itinerary;

●       Proof of financial solvency (from 20,000 baht per person);

●       Hotel booking confirmation or address of residence;

●       Paid visa fee.

Application procedure:

1. Selecting a consulate or embassy in your country of residence (or the nearest country).
2. Submitting documents in person or through a visa center (in some countries online submission is possible).
3. Payment of visa fee.
4. Waiting for review (usually 2-5 business days).
5. Obtaining a passport with a visa and planning your trip.

Visa fees

The cost of visas depends on their type and the country of application.

Special cases and recommendations

Entry with children

●       Children under 15 years of age may enter without a visa if they have a separate passport and are included on their parents' visa (if any).

●       If a child is traveling with one parent or a third party, a notarized permission from the other parent may be required.

Medical requirements

●       Vaccinations: There are no official vaccination requirements, but vaccinations against hepatitis A/B, typhoid fever and tetanus are recommended.

●       Insurance: Medical insurance is not mandatory but is highly recommended (especially for active holidays, bike rentals and long-term stays).

Recommendations for travelers

●       Monitor the duration of your stay to avoid violating visa regulations.

●       Do not work illegally, as this will result in fines and deportation.

●       Please check visa regulations before travelling as they may change.

Conclusion

Thailand offers different visa regimes for tourists, depending on the length of the trip and the purpose of the visit. Visa-free entry, visa on arrival and tourist visas are the main ways to legally stay in the country.

It is important to check the current visa requirements in advance, prepare documents and extend your visa in advance if necessary. Compliance with visa rules will help avoid fines, problems at the border and deportation.