thailand tourist visa single entry

The Thailand Tourist Visa Guide (Single & Multiple Entry)

The majority of foreign nationals are able to enter Thailand on a visa exemption stamp.

This means that when you enter Thailand you are given a stamp at the immigration desk that allows you to stay in the country for 30 days.

Okay, so now you're clear on how long you can stay when you arrive without a visa, what if you want to stay for 6 weeks, or 2 even months?

In this case, you can apply for a Tourist Visa before you travel.

In this FAQ guide, I'll answer all common queries regarding the Thailand Tourist Visa, both single and multiple entry.

1. Where can I get a Tourist Visa?

A Tourist Visa can be obtained from a Thai embassy or consulate in your home country, or a country outside of Thailand, if you live abroad or are already traveling.

You can also apply via the E-Visa online system. Indeed, some embassies may no longer accept applications for Tourist Visas and instead require you to apply online.

The E-Visa is delivered via email. You can then print it out and present it to immigration on arrival.

What different types of tourist visa are there?

A. single entry.

The Single Entry Tourist Visa is valid for 3 months from its date of issue. It allows a single stay of a maximum of 60 days.

B. Multiple entry

The Multiple Entry Tourist Visa is valid for 6 months from its date of issue.

It allows an unlimited number of entries within the 6-month validity of the visa. Each entry allows a maximum stay of 60 days.

For example, if you leave Thailand on the 59th day of your stay and re-enter the country a day later, you will be stamped in for a further 60 days.

What documents do I need to get the Tourist Visa?

The requirements may vary slightly between country, but this is usually what's required from your local embassy.

• A completed visa application form with two recent passport type photos attached. The form can be downloaded from your local Thai embassy website.
• Your passport must have a minimum 6 months remaining validity, and at least two blank pages – this is so your visa can be added to the passport, and for entry/exit stamps when entering and leaving Thailand.
• If you reside in a country but are not a citizen of that country, then you will be required to show a visa or residence card that permits you to stay. You will also be required to show evidence of where you live, by way of utility bill, bank account statement, or driving license.
• Two recent passport size photographs. You can get these done at a photo booth (in a mall or store) or at some print services shops.
• Confirmation of travel (flight tickets).
• Proof of accommodation in Thailand: this can be a copy of your hotel booking or a letter from the family or friend you are staying with.
• Copy of bank statement to show proof of earnings. This requirement will differ between countries, and differs for the single and multiple entry visas. For example, for a Single Entry Tourist Visa from a US Thai embassy, you will need a copy of your bank statement showing $700 per person and $1,500 per family. For a Multiple Entry Tourist Visa, you will need a copy of your bank statement for the last 6 months showing a minimum balance of $7,000 (every month).

Thailand's E-Visa System

If you are applying online through the E-Visa system, you will require the following documentation:

• Passport or travel document with a validity of not less than 6 months.
• Photograph taken within the past six months.
• Evidence of travel to Thailand (air ticket paid in full).
• Evidence of adequate finance (20,000 Baht per person and 40,000 Baht per family).

Please note that you are not required to submit any supporting documents in person at a Royal Thai Embassy or Consulate after completing the E-Visa application. Once approved, a confirmation e-mail will be sent through and you can  print a copy of the confirmation e-mail to present to airline and Thai Immigration officials.

You can apply online here: https://www.thaievisa.go.th

Historically, Thailand's online systems have always fallen way short of expectations, with browser compatibility issues, bugs, broken links, etc., but the new visa system is working pretty well.

For those who deem themselves digitally challenged, there is a comprehensive user manual. This manual is also available as a series of how-to videos, which are very helpful. You can find the manual here.

How much does a Thai Tourist Visa cost?

The cost varies between country, but here is the cost for the US and UK:

• US: Single – $40. Multiple Entry – $200
• UK: Single – £30. Multiple Entry – £150

How long does it take to process a Tourist Visa?

If you attend the Thai embassy in person, the process will take around 5 working days. If you apply by mail, the process will take a minimum of 15 days.

Applying online will take 6-10 working days.

This is a general guideline and will differ between countries, and may be longer or shorter depending on how busy the embassy/consulate is.

I would personally allow 2 weeks if applying in person or online, and 3 weeks if applying by mail. This will ensure you get your visa before your flight date.

When is my Tourist Visa valid from?

The Single Entry Tourist Visa is valid 3 months from date of issue, and the Multiple Entry Tourist Visa is valid for 6 months from date of issue.

When you enter Thailand, you will be stamped in for 60 days.

Note: The expiry date of the visa shows on the visa sticker as ‘ENTER BEFORE'. When you enter Thailand, you will receive a rectangular stamp in your passport stating your date of entry and the ‘ADMITTED UNTIL' date. This date will be exactly 60 days after your date of entry

What happens if I leave Thailand before my 60-day stay is up?

If you leave prior to your 60-day stay ending, the remaining days will be forfeited.

If you think you will want to leave Thailand and re-enter, you should get a Multiple Entry Tourist Visa.

The Multiple Entry Tourist Visa is valid for 6 months from date of issue. You are allowed unlimited entries within the 6-month period of the visa. If you exit Thailand, as long as you re-enter before the visa expires, you will be stamped in for a further 60 days.

Can I extend my visa inside Thailand?

For those who want to extend their stay in Thailand, you can extend the 60-day Single Entry Tourist Visa by 30 days at a local Immigration Office. The fee for the extension is 1,900 Baht.

Under the Multiple Entry Visa, you can extend one of the 60-day stays by a further 30 days. The cost is the same.

Under the Multiple Entry Tourist Visa, by saving the 30-day extension for your final entry, you can accumulate almost 9 month's stay in Thailand.

Can I cancel my visa and get a refund?

No. The visa fee is non-refundable.

Can't I just do border runs instead of getting a Tourist Visa?

Because you are granted 30 days stay on arrival in Thailand, in theory you could just leave over a land border after 30 days and return the same day, activating a further 30 day's stay.

This is known as a border run . People used to stay in Thailand for years just going back and forth over the border.

However, the current rule is that if you enter Thailand over land without a visa, you are allowed a maximum of two 30-day entries within any rolling 12-month period.

With a Multiple Entry Tourist Visa, you can go in an out as many times as you want within the validity of the visa.

Did I miss anything? Got a question? Leave it below.

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Last Updated on January 17, 2024

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How to apply for a tourist visa in Thailand

       Thailand is one of the top destinations for tourists from around the world. There are major destinations that attract visitors in Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai, and Hua Hin, to name only a few.

       Foreigners entering Thailand are required to apply for a tourist visa. Supporting documents for the application are the following: 

       Passport or travel document with validity of not less than 6 months;

• A completed and signed visa application form
• Two 2½-inch photos taken with in the past 6 months, with no hat and no sunglasses;
• Evidence showing the applicant will leave Thailand within a certain period of time after finishing traveling in Thailand, such as a confirmed travel ticket or proof of onward travel to a third country;
• Documents from a travel agency or tour operator, in the case of traveling with a tour group;
• The applicant may be asked to submit additional documents or may be interviewed. 

       There are 2 types of tourist visa, namely single entry visa (valid for 3 months), with a fee of 1,000 baht, and multiple entry visa (valid for 12 months), with a fee of 5,000 baht. For both types of visa, upon arrival, travelers are permitted to stay in the Kingdom 60 days per time and must have evidence of adequate finances: 20,000 baht for an individual or 40,000 baht per family.

       For further inquiries, applicants should please contact the nearest Royal Thai Embassy or Royal Thai Consulate-General in the their area.

Source : Ministry of Foreign Affairs Tel : +66 2203-5000

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Visa Traveler

Exploring the world one country at a time

Thailand tourist visa: Requirements and application procedure

Updated: April 6, 2023

Thailand has a liberal visa policy offering Visa EXEMPTION and Visa ON ARRIVAL to many nationalities in the world. For those who REQUIRE a visa, Thailand tourist visa is the easiest to obtain if you understand and follow the visa requirements properly.

There 5 ways you can enter Thailand as a tourist.

• Visa Exemption
• Visa on Arrival (VOA)
• Pre-approved visa from Thai embassy

A Thailand tourist visa is only for visiting Thailand for the purpose of tourism for a short period of time. If you plan to stay longer, look into Thai ED Visa , which allows you to study and live in Thailand for up to one year.

Without further delay, let’s dive into Thailand visa requirements, eligibility, application procedure and entry-exit formalities at the airport.

Table of Contents

Thailand tourist visa requirements by nationality.

Minimum passport validity required to enter Thailand as a tourist

For visa EXEMPT and visa REQUIRED nationalities, the passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the day of arrival in Thailand.

For visa ON ARRIVAL eligible nationalities, the passport must be valid for at least 30 days from the day of arrival in Thailand. 

VISA EXEMPT nationalities

90-day entry.

• South Korea

30-day entry

• Czech Republic
• Liechtenstein
• Myanmar (* only if entering by air)
• Netherlands
• New Zealand
• Philippines
• South Africa
• Switzerland
• United Arab Emirates
• United Kingdom
• United States

Visa ON ARRIVAL or e-VOA eligible nationalities

15-day entry.

• Papua New Guinea
• Saudi Arabia

E-VISA eligible nationalities

60-day entry.

• Citizens or permanent residents of the following countries are eligible for E-Visa.
• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Congo, Rep. of
• Congo, Dem. Rep. of
• Dominican Republic
• North Korea
• Trinidad and Tobago
• Vatican City

Visa REQUIRED nationalities

• Afghanistan
• Antigua and Barbuda
• Burkina Faso
• Cayman Islands
• Central African Republic
• Cote d’Ivoire
• El Salvador
• Equatorial Guinea
• Guinea-Bissau
• Marshall Islands
• North Macedonia
• Saint Kitts and Nevis
• Saint Lucia
• Saint Vincent And The Grenadines
• Sao Tome and Principe
• Sierra Leone
• Sint Maarten
• Solomon Islands
• South Sudan
• Timor-Leste
• Turkmenistan

THAILAND VISA EXEMPTION

Currently, Thailand offers visa exemption to 64 countries. Most countries in that list get a 30-day entry. Just a handful of countries in South America and South Korea get 90-day entry.

How long can you stay in Thailand with visa exemption

Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Peru and South Korea nationals can stay up to 90 days in Thailand. All other visa-exempt nationalities can stay up to 30 days in Thailand. 

Except for G7 countries (Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, United Kingdom, and the United States), all other nationalities will be granted only a 30-day entry if entering by land.

Malaysia passport holders are granted 30-day entry when entering by land from Malaysia.

How many times can you enter Thailand with visa exemption

There are no restrictions on entering Thailand by air. But you can only enter 2 times in a given year by land.

Passport validity required for visa exemption

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the day of arrival in Thailand.

Documents to carry for visa exemption

• Original passport
• Proof of onward ticket
• Proof of funds (20,000 THB for individuals and 40,000 THB for families)

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the day of arrival in Thailand. 

Your proof of onward ticket can be a print or a copy on your phone. This cannot be a bus or train ticket. This must a flight ticket. If you are traveling on a one-way ticket or planning to take a bus or train to Laos or Cambodia, get a dummy proof of an onward flight ticket .

Proof of funds can be cash, ATM cards or credit cards. There were incidents where tourists were forced to show proof of funds in the form of cash. To avoid unnecessary trouble, I suggest carrying a bit of cash on you in Thai Baht or any major currency.

THAILAND VISA ON ARRIVAL (VOA)

Thailand is a popular tourist destination in South East Asia, partly due to its liberal visa-exemption and Visa on Arrival policies. Currently, 18 nationalities can obtain Thailand Visa on Arrival at all international airports and land checkpoints with minimal documentation.

How long can you stay in Thailand with Visa on Arrival (VOA)

You can stay up to 15 days on Visa on Arrival (VOA). No visa extensions are allowed.

How many times can you obtain Visa on Arrival (VOA)

If you are traveling to many countries in South East Asia, you may have to enter Thailand multiple times. You can obtain Visa on Arrival multiple times on your trip without any problems. 

PERSONAL EXPERIENCE I obtained Visa on Arrival (VOA) at the airport and later at a land border in Thailand on my South East Asia trip and I was fine.

Passport validity required for Visa on Arrival (VOA)

Your passport must be valid for at least 30 days from the day of arrival in Thailand.

Documents required for Visa on Arrival (VOA)

The following documents are required for Visa on Arrival (VOA).

• Completed Thailand Visa on Arrival application form
• One passport-size photo (4×6 cm)
• Return/onward flight ticket (must be within 15 days of arrival in Thailand)
• Hotel booking confirmation (minimum 5 nights)
• Proof of funds (10,000 THB for individuals and 20,000 THB for families)

Print and complete your Thailand Visa on Arrival application form before heading on your trip to Thailand. If you can’t print it, you can always grab one at the airport and fill it out.

A return/onward flight ticket is mandatory and it must be within 15 days of arrival in Thailand. If your return ticket is over 15 days, you will be forced to rebook another flight ticket by the Visa on Arrival staff. You will end up spending a lot on rebooking so make sure your flight ticket is within 15 days.

Your return or onward ticket must be a flight ticket. Bus or train tickets are not acceptable. If you plan to travel to a neighboring country by land, you must still provide a flight ticket as proof of onward travel .

If you plan on traveling to a neighboring country by bus or train, get a dummy onward flight ticket for your Visa on Arrival. 

Hotel booking is mandatory. A minimum of 5 nights or more is required. Booking a hotel for the first 1 or 2 nights will not work. You will be forced to book the remaining nights by the VOA staff at the airport.

Proof of funds must be a minimum of 10,000 THB for individuals and 20,000 THB for families. You would need to show proof of funds in cash. You can get away by saying that you have your debit and credit cards on you. But, I strongly suggest you have at least 5,000 THB on your and for the remaining, you can show your debit card, credit card and bank statements.

Visa on Arrival (VOA) photo size

The photo must be of size 4 x 6 cm. It must have been taken within the last 6 months. You may need 1-2 photos for your visa depending on the checkpoint. Carry at least 2 photos for Visa on Arrival at the land borders.

Visa on Arrival (VOA) fee

Thailand Visa ON ARRIVAL fee is 2,000 THB. This fee must be paid in cash in Thai Baht (THB) only. 

You may be forced to pay an additional 200 THB as an express fee for fast processing of your VOA. Sometimes you will not have a choice but to pay this express fee.

Money exchanges are available near the Visa on Arrival sections in the airports. No ATMs are available, so make sure to carry cash in THB or any major currency.

Visa on Arrival (VOA) processing time

Visa on Arrival process at airports is quick these days. It used to take at least an hour before. Either way, account for an additional one hour for your Visa on Arrival process at the airport just in case.

To save time, you can download and fill out the Visa on Arrival application form prior to your arrival.

RELATED: How to get a 15-day Thailand Visa on Arrival (VOA) in 2023 – A complete guide

THAILAND ONLINE VISA ON ARRIVAL (e-VOA)

Thailand e-VOA speeds up the process of obtaining Visa on Arrival (VOA) at the airport. If you hold an e-VOA, you can skip the regular Visa on Arrival lines at the airports. 

All 18 nationalities that are eligible for Visa on Arrival can obtain e-VOA online. 

There are special counters set up at the airports just for e-VOA holders for obtaining Visa on Arrival. You do not need to carry supporting documents or the visa fee. All you need is your original passport, e-VOA approval and proof of funds.

IMPORTANT e-VOA is NOT eVISA. Even with an e-VOA, you still have to go through the Visa on Arrival process and obtain your VOA stamp at the airport. It ONLY speeds up the process of obtaining Visa on Arrival at the airport since your document check and visa fee payment were already done online.

Hong long can you stay in Thailand with e-VOA

You can stay up to 15 days using e-VOA. No visa extensions are allowed.

Passport validity required for e-VOA

Blank pages needed in the passport for e-voa.

You must have at least 1 blank page in your passport.

Where to enter Thailand with e-VOA

With an approved e-VOA, you can only enter Thailand from the below 4 international airports. 

• Suvarnabhumi International Airport in Bangkok (BKK)
• Don Mueang International Airport in Bangkok (DMK)
• Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX)
• Phuket International Airport (HKT)

NOTE If you plan to enter Thailand from an airport other than the above 4 or from a land border, you must opt for the regular Visa on Arrival. You CANNOT use e-VOA.

Thailand e-VOA application procedure

To obtain Thailand e-VOA, you must fill out an online visa application and upload the required documents. Pay the Visa on Arrival fee, service charge and tax. You will receive your e-VOA result in 1-3 working days.

Once your e-VOA is approved, print your e-VOA approval. You must present your passport, e-VOA approval and arrival/departure card at the Visa on Arrival counters at the airport. The 15-day Visa on Arrival will be stamped in your passport.

You can apply for e-VOA from any one of the two authorized visa agents. These are the only 2 agents authorized by Thai immigration.

• eVisa Thailand E-Visa on Arrival | THB 495.33 processing fee plus 7% VAT
• Thailand eVisa on Arrival by VFS Global | THB 500 processing fee

Documents required for e-VOA

The following documents are required for e-VOA.

• Passport cover page
• Passport ID page
• Digital photo (4×6 cm)
• Round trip flight tickets (return flight must be within 15 days of arrival in Thailand)
• Hotel booking confirmations for the entire stay

Thailand e-VOA fee

The fee for e-VOA is 2,000 THB. The visa agent will charge a service fee of 500 THB and tax on top of the visa fee. The visa fee can only be paid in Thai Baht using a credit/debit card. 

The additional THB 500 service fee is non-refundable in case of e-VOA rejection.

e-VOA processing time

The processing time for e-VOA is 1-3 working days. Express processing is also available for an additional fee where the application will be processed within 24 hours.

e-VOA application tracking

Both eVisa Thailand and VFS Global offer visa application status tracking. 

THAILAND E-VISA

Thailand E-Visa is an initiative from Thai immigration to move the Thai visa process online. The idea is to replace the regular pre-approved visa from the embassy with the new E-Visa. The visa validity and entry are exactly the same as the pre-approved visa from the embassy. 

Thailand’s E-Visa portal offers both single and multiple-entry visas. You can apply for either one. But if the officers are not convinced that you need a multiple-entry visa, they may simply issue a single-entry visa. The fee for the multiple-entry visa is not refunded in that case.

Validity of Thailand E-Visa

Thailand E-Visa is valid for 3 months or 6 months depending on the entry type. 

• Single-Entry: Valid for 3 months
• Multiple-Entry: Valid for 6 months

When to apply for E-Visa

You can apply for a Thai E-Visa up to 3 months prior to your trip. The processing takes about 3-10 working days, so it’s recommended to apply at least a month prior to your trip.

How long can stay in Thailand on E-Visa

You can stay up to 60 days in Thailand on your single-entry Thailand E-Visa. 

With a multiple-entry E-Visa, you can stay up to 60 days on each entry. All entries must be made within the validity of your multiple-entry E-Visa. Meaning, even if you enter Thailand on the last day of your E-Visa, you will still receive a 60-day entry.

Both single-entry and multiple-entry E-Visas are extendable for additional 30 days at the local immigration office. 

Passport validity required for E-Visa

At the time of lodging your E-Visa application, your passport must be valid for at least 6 months for a single-entry E-Visa and 1 year for a multiple-entry E-Visa.

E-Visa application procedure

You can apply for your E-Visa on the Thai E-Visa portal . You must fill out the online application, upload the required documents and pay the required visa fee.

The Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs has created a nice step-by-step video guide and a PDF guide on how to apply for your E-Visa using the Thai E-Visa portal.

Documents required

The following documents are required for the Thai E-Visa.

• A scan of your passport ID page
• A digital photo (4×6 cm)
• Fully paid round-trip flight tickets
• Proof of residence (if not a citizen of the country where you are applying from)

All scanned documents must be in JPG format only. Max allowed file size is 3MB.

Photo requirements

The digital photo must meet the following requirements.

• Photo must have been taken in the last 6-months
• Must be 4×6 cm in dimensions
• Must be in JPG format only 
• Max file size allowed is 3MB

The Thailand E-Visa fee is $40 USD for a single-entry tourist visa, paid in the local currency of the Thai consulate you have selected in your E-Visa application. E-Visa fees can only be paid using a credit/debit card. 

Processing time

The processing time for E-Visa is 3-10 working days. 

Application tracking

The application can be tracked within the dashboard of your account in the E-Visa portal.

THAILAND TOURIST VISA FROM THE EMBASSY

The following are eligible to apply for a pre-approved tourist visa. 

• Visa REQUIRED nationality that are not eligible for Thai E-VISA
• Visa ON ARRIVAL eligible nationality that would need to stay longer than 15 days and are not eligible for Thai E-Visa
• Visa EXEMPT nationality that would need to stay longer than 30 days and are not eligible for Thai E-Visa

Validity of Thailand tourist visa

A single-entry Thailand tourist visa is valid for 3 months. You must enter Thailand within the validity of this visa.

A multiple-entry Thailand tourist visa is valid for 6 months. You can enter Thailand unlimited times on this type of visa and all entries must be within the validity of the visa. 

When to apply for Thailand tourist visa

You can apply for a Thailand tourist visa up to 3 months prior to your trip. The processing can take from 3-10 working days so it’s recommended to apply at least one month prior to your trip.

How long can you stay in Thailand on a tourist visa

You can stay up to 60 days on a single-entry Thailand tourist visa. A 30-day extension is possible from the local immigration office.

You can stay up to 60 days for each entry on a multiple-entry tourist visa. A 30-day extension is possible from the local immigration office.

Passport validity required for tourist visa

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months at the time of applying for your tourist visa.

Blank pages needed in the passport for tourist visa

You must have at least two blank pages in your passport for the tourist visa. One page for the visa sticker and one page for entry and exit stamps.

Thailand tourist visa application procedure

You can apply for a Thailand tourist visa in person at your nearest Royal Thai embassy or using an authorized visa agent such as VFS Global.

Here is an informational video made by the Royal Thai consulate in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia on how to fill and arrange the documents for your Thailand tourist visa.

IMPORTANT If you are a Visa REQUIRED nationality, you can ONLY apply for a Thailand tourist visa in your country of passport or residence. That means You CANNOT apply for a Thailand tourist visa while traveling.

If you do not have a Thai mission in your country of passport or residence, you must apply at a Thai mission in a neighboring country that is specifically designated for applicants from your country. 

The following documents are required for Thailand tourist visa.

• Completed Thailand tourist visa application form (you can download it from your nearest Royal Thai embassy website)
• Original passport with at least 6 months of validity with 2 blank pages
• Copies of your passport data/ID page and last page (2-3 copies depending on the Thai embassy where you are applying from)
• Passport size photos (1-4 photos depending on the Thai embassy where you are applying from)
• Roundtrip flight tickets (fully paid and confirmed for certain Thai embassies)
• Hotel reservations for the entire trip 
• Full itinerary (full itinerary of your entire stay on a sheet of paper)
• Bank statements (last 6 months showing at least $700 USD per individual or $1,400 USD per family)
• Proof of residence (if applying from a country other than the country of passport)

The passport photo for the visa application must meet the following requirements.

• Must be of size 3.5 x 4.5 cm
• Must be latest taken in the last 3 months
• Must be on a white background without glasses or a hat

You may need 1-4 photos for your visa depending on the nationality. Carry about 4 photos when heading to the embassy.

Thailand tourist visa fee is 1,000 THB ($30 USD) for a single-entry tourist visa and 5,000 THB ($145 USD) for a multiple-entry tourist visa. You have to pay the visa fee in your local currency, so the visa fee may vary a bit due to currency exchange rates. 

Visa agents such as VFS Global charge an additional service fee, courier fee, handling charges, etc. on top of the visa fee.

Thailand tourist visa processing time is 3 to 10 working days. Most applications are processed within 3 working days but if the embassy requires additional documents from you, it can take up to 10 working days.

Thai consulates, embassies, and authorized visa agents provide visa status updates via email. VFS Global provides online visa application tracking for its applicants.

ENTRY AND EXIT PROCEDURE AT THE AIRPORT

Entering Thailand by air

If you are a visa-exempt nationality, hold an E-Visa or a pre-approved Thailand tourist visa, head straight to immigration.

If you need to obtain Visa on Arrival (VOA), head to the Visa on Arrival section first. To speed up the Visa on Arrival process, you can either opt for e-VOA or express lanes at the airport. You can also download and fill out the Visa on Arrival application form before you arrive at the airport. 

If you don’t have a completed Visa on Arrival form with you, grab one at the Visa on Arrival section. There will be examples of completed application forms on the wall to assist you with filling out the application form.

IMPORTANT Visa on Arrival fee can only be paid in THB. There are NO ATMs at the Visa on Arrival sections in any of the Thailand airports. So, make sure to carry enough cash in THB (Thai Baht) or major currency. There are currency exchanges at Visa on Arrival sections. So if you have some major currency on you, you can change it into THB.

After you complete your Visa on Arrival procedure, head to the immigration area.

Leaving Thailand by air

On exiting Thailand, you will have to go through passport control. You must present the following documents

• Your original passport
• Airline boarding pass

If flying out of Bangkok (BKK and DMK), long lines at check-in counters and passport control are common. Arrive at least 2 hours before your departure time.

ENTRY AND EXIT PROCEDURE AT THE LAND BORDER

Entering thailand by land.

If you are a visa-exempt nationality, hold an E-Visa or a pre-approved Thailand visa, head straight to immigration.

If you have to obtain Visa on Arrival (VOA), head to the Visa on Arrival section first. To speed up the Visa on Arrival process, you can download and fill out the Visa on Arrival application form before you arrive at the land border. 

IMPORTANT The Visa on Arrival fee can only be paid in THB. ATMs and currency exchanges are very rare at the land borders. So, make sure to carry enough cash in THB (Thai Baht).

Leaving Thailand by land

On exiting Thailand by land, you must go through passport control. You must present the following documents

• Visa to the next country

If the next country you will be entering requires a visa, you must present the visa of that country. Otherwise, you will not be allowed to leave Thailand. If you will be obtaining Visa on Arrival in the next country, just say that you will obtain Visa on Arrival and you will be fine.

Thailand offers Visa EXEMPTION and Visa ON ARRIVAL to many nationalities. For those who REQUIRE a visa, a Thailand tourist visa is quite easy to obtain. Currently, 18 nationalities are eligible to obtain Visa on Arrival (VOA) and over 50 nationalities can obtain E-Visa. Rest requires a pre-approved visa from the embassy.

WRITTEN BY THIRUMAL MOTATI

Thirumal Motati is an expert in tourist visa matters. He has been traveling the world on tourist visas for more than a decade. With his expertise, he has obtained several tourist visas, including the most strenuous ones such as the US, UK, Canada, and Schengen, some of which were granted multiple times. He has also set foot inside US consulates on numerous occasions. Mr. Motati has uncovered the secrets to successful visa applications. His guidance has enabled countless individuals to obtain their visas and fulfill their travel dreams. His statements have been mentioned in publications like Yahoo, BBC, The Hindu, and Travel Zoo.

PLAN YOUR TRAVEL WITH VISA TRAVELER

I highly recommend using these websites to plan your trip. I use these websites myself to apply for my visas, book my flights and hotels and purchase my travel insurance.

01. Apply for your visa

Get a verifiable flight itinerary for your visa application from DummyTicket247 . DummyTicket247 is a flight search engine to search and book flight itineraries for visas instantly. These flight itineraries are guaranteed to be valid for 2 weeks and work for all visa applications.

02. Book your fight

Find the cheapest flight tickets using Skyscanner . Skyscanner includes all budget airlines and you are guaranteed to find the cheapest flight to your destination.

03. Book your hotel

Book your hotel from Booking.com . Booking.com has pretty much every hotel, hostel and guesthouse from every destination.

04. Get your onward ticket

If traveling on a one-way ticket, use BestOnwardTicket to get proof of onward ticket for just $12, valid for 48 hours.

05. Purchase your insurance

Purchase travel medical insurance for your trip from SafetyWing . Insurance from SafetyWing covers COVID-19 and also comes with a visa letter which you can use for your visas.

Need more? Check out my travel resources page  for the best websites to plan your trip.

LEGAL DISCLAIMER We are not affiliated with immigration, embassies or governments of any country. The content in this article is for educational and general informational purposes only, and shall not be understood or construed as, visa, immigration or legal advice. Your use of information provided in this article is solely at your own risk and you expressly agree not to rely upon any information contained in this article as a substitute for professional visa or immigration advice. Under no circumstance shall be held liable or responsible for any errors or omissions in this article or for any damage you may suffer in respect to any actions taken or not taken based on any or all of the information in this article. Please refer to our full disclaimer for further information.

AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Please refer to our full disclosure for further information.

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Single Entry Tourist Visa

Single-Entry Tourist Visa is valid for entering Thailand once within 3 months from the date of application. The period of stay is 60 days maximum (starting from the day you enter Thailand).

Single-Entry Tourist Visa can be applied for at any Thai embassy or consulate worldwide and costs around 30 EUR. It usually takes two business days to apply for and receive a Single-Entry Tourist Visa. Thai embassies and consulates close on public Thai holidays and the public holidays of the country they are in, so double check for holidays before planning your visit there.

Documents Needed for a Single-Entry Tourist Visa

When applying for a Single-Entry Tourist Visa you will need (list can slightly vary depending on embassy / consulate):

• Passport valid for at least six months.
• Copy of the main page of the passport.
• Duly filled-in and signed Thai Visa Application Form .
• One or two passport size (4 x 6 cm) photos .
• Visa fee (cash) or a proof of fee payment confirmed by the bank (accepted payment options depend on embassy / consulate).
• Return / onward journey air ticket for flying out of Thailand (some embassies / consulates ignore this requirement, others not).
• Hotel or apartment address in Thailand that can be verified and evidence of accommodation booking.
• A proof that you have funds of at least 20,000 THB per person and 40,000 THB per family during your stay in Thailand (they rarely ask for it but better be prepared).

At the time of your arrival to Thailand, you will have to submit  Thailand Arrival Card  as well. Learn how to fill it here:  How to Fill Arrival Card Form .

Thai Embassies and Consulates Issuing Single-Entry Tourist Visa

You can apply for Single-Entry Tourist Visa at any Thai embassy or consulate worldwide . If you are staying in Thailand or traveling around Southeast Asia, these should be your top choices:

• Embassy of Thailand in Phnom Penh, Cambodia (196 Preah Norodom Boulevard, Sangkat Tonle Bassac, Khan Chamcar Mon, Phnom Penh)
• Consulate-General of Thailand in Savannaket, Laos (9 Road Ban Huameuang N, Kaysone Phomvihane District, Savannakhet Province, Savannakhet)
• Embassy of Thailand in Vientiane, Laos (applying for visa at: Consular Section, Unit 15 Bourichane Road, Ban Phone Si Nuan,Muang Si Sattanak, Vientiane) - read more about getting  Thailand Visa in Vientiane
• Consulate-General of Thailand in Kota Bharu, Malaysia (4426 Jalan Pengkalan Chepa, Kota Bharu, Kelantan)
• Embassy of Thailand in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia (206 Jalan Ampang, Kuala Lumpur)
• Consulate-General of Thailand in Penang, Malaysia (1, Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman, Penang)
• Embassy of Thailand in Yangon , Myanmar (94, Pyay Road, Dagon Township Yangon) - read more about getting  Thailand Visa in Yangon
• Embassy of Thailand in Singapore, Singapore (370 Orchard Road, Singapore)
• Royal Thai Honorary Consulate in Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia - read more about getting  Thailand visa in Bali

Thailand E-Visa Application

Thailand E-Visa Application  service giving an opportunity to apply for  Thai visa online  was recently launched. E-Visa service will make application for Thailand visa at Thai embassies and consulates much easier. 

Thailand E-Visa application service is currently available for  Chinese  and for visa submission  at the Royal Thai Embassy in Beijing only . The service will be made available in Thai consulates in other Chinese cities soon.

From 1 April 2019, visa applicants in the  UK  and  Ireland  will have to apply for Thailand visa online as well. Thai embassies and consulates in other countries and cities around the world are expected to start using Thailand E-Visa application service over a three year period.

More information about application for Thai visa online can be found here:  Thailand E-Visa Application: Apply for Thai Visa Online .

Thailand Immigration control procedure  at the airport in Thailand is briefly described here:  Thailand Immigration Control Procedure for Foreigners .

Your stay in Thailand  can be extended  once per entry. In most cases it can be extended by 30 days. For more information check:  Thai Visa Extension .

The application of a Single-Entry Tourist Visa seems to be too much time consuming?  You can opt for one of the easier ways to visit Thailand - Free visa-exempt stay  or Visa on Arrival .

Planning to visit Thailand more frequently? Multi-Entry Tourist Visa  should be your choice.

Any Questions?

Check our Frequently Asked Questions about getting Thailand Visa at Thai Embassies and Consulates and ask your own question if it's not answered there yet.

FAQ - Thai Visa at Embassy / Consulate

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Thailand Relaxes Its Visa Program: Longer Stays For Tourists And Digital Nomads

Beginning next week, Thailand will roll out an initiative that will allow travelers from 93 countries to stay up to 60 days, and relax rules for digital nomads, students and retirees.

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Thailand is pulling out the stops to attract more tourists from a larger pool of countries and for longer stays.

T his week, Thailand’s government announced that it is significantly relaxing its visa program, approving longer stays for tourists, students and remote workers in an initiative that will allow travelers from 93 countries (up from 57) to stay 60 days (up from 30).

The changes will go into effect on June 1.

For digital nomads, as well as self-employed and remote workers, visas will extend to five years—a significant jump from 60 days—with each stay limited to 180 days, Thai government spokesperson Chai Wacharonke said at a press conference. Previously, digital nomads were allowed only two 30-day stays.

Foreign postgraduate students will be able to stay an additional year after graduation.

In addition, Thailand is drastically lowering insurance requirements for foreign retirees. Currently, retirees aged 50 years and up must have health insurance coverage of 3 million baht (nearly $82,000). The new requirement will be just 440,000 baht ($12,000).

Thailand is hoping these moves will collectively help juice its stuttering economy. Earlier this month, the finance ministry reduced its 2024 economic growth forecast to 2.4% from 2.8%. The country is aiming for a record 40 million foreign tourism arrivals in 2024, with an anticipated revenue of 3.5 trillion baht ($95.3 billion).

Around the world, there’s a marked trend toward fewer countries requiring traditional paper visas affixed in a passport, according to UN Tourism’s latest Tourism Visa Openness Report , which revealed that just 47% of travelers in 2023 required a traditional visa, falling steadily from 77% in 2008 and 59% in 2018. Instead, travelers are finding looser rules and less friction when traveling to destinations around the world. Today 21% of the world’s population does not need any visa—up from 17% in 2008—and visa-on-arrivals and eVisas are popping up around the world.

This trend is most visible in the Middle East and Africa. Consider that in 2015, about seven in 10 people in the world needed to obtain a visa prior to visiting the Middle East. By last year, that figure had dropped to 57%.

The list of countries soon eligible for visa-free short stays in Thailand include large tourism source markets like China and India, as well as U.S., U.K., Albania, Cambodia, Jamaica, Kazakhstan, Laos, Mexico, Morocco, Panama, Romania, Sri Lanka, UAE and Uzbekistan.

A Thai visa-on-arrival will soon be available for 31 countries (up from 19), including Armenia, Fiji, Malta, Saudi Arabia and Serbia.

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• Immigration

Thailand Visa-Free Entry for 93 Nations Starting June 2024

Thailand enhances tourism with travel simplification: 93 countries now eligible for thailand visa-free entry, starting june 1, 2024..

Key Takeaways:

• As of June 1, 2024, Thailand allows visa-free entry for nationals from 93 countries for 60 days.

Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) offers extended stays for remote workers, medical tourists, and professionals, valid for up to five years.

Visa on Arrival expanded to 31 countries, with e-Visa and ETA system updates by December 2024 and June 2025.

Which Nations Now Qualify for Thailand’s Visa-Free Entry?

As of June 1, 2024, Thailand has broadened its visa-free entry policy, allowing travelers from several new nations to enter the country without the need for a visa. Nationals from 93 countries, including the UK, USA, EU countries, and Australia, are now eligible for a 60-day visa-exempt stamp upon arrival. This new policy extends the allowable stay from the previous 30 days to 60 days.

Here is the comprehensive list of countries now eligible for Thailand visa-free entry:

• Czech Republic
• Dominican Republic
• Liechtenstein
• Netherlands
• New Zealand
• Papua New Guinea
• Philippines
• Saudi Arabia
• South Africa
• South Korea
• Switzerland
• Trinidad and Tobago
• United Arab Emirates
• United Kingdom
• United States

This expansion aims to boost Thailand’s tourism sector and simplify travel logistics for international visitors.

Also of Interest:

What is happening at p.e.i. hunger strike foreign workers protest immigration policies, immigration protest hunger strike in charlottetown spurs medical emergencies, what are the new visa categories.

Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) is one of the most notable new categories aimed at various kinds of travelers. This visa is particularly designed for remote workers, sports professionals, musicians, medical tourists, and more. It permits a stay of up to 180 days and can be extended for up to five years.

Long-Term Visas: For digital nomads and remote workers, the validity of visas has been extended to five years, with each stay capped at 180 days. This extension aims to attract professionals who can work from anywhere, providing them with more flexibility and contributing to the local economy.

How Has Visa on Arrival (VOA) Changed?

The Visa on Arrival policy has also seen significant changes. Previously, nationals from 19 countries were eligible for a Visa on Arrival, which allows a stay of up to 15 days. Now, this number has increased to 31 countries, facilitating travel for more visitors who may not qualify for the visa-exempt status but still wish to experience Thailand.

What Is the New E-Visa and ETA System?

Thailand will also roll out updates to its e-Visa and Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) systems. By December 2024, the e-Visa service will expand to 94 Thai embassies, consulates, and trade and economic offices worldwide. Additionally, by June 2025, Thailand aims to have an ETA system in place for foreign nationals who qualify for visa exemption. This system will further streamline the process of entering Thailand, making it easier for tourists and business travelers alike.

For more information on the e-Visa system, you can visit the official Thai Immigration website .

How Does the 60-Day Visa-Free Policy Impact Long-Term Visitors?

The new 60-day visa-free policy allows individuals the possibility of staying in Thailand for more than six months without requiring a visa. This can be achieved by performing “border runs,” where a traveler exits Thailand and re-enters to receive another 60-day visa-free period. However, this change complicates the Thai Revenue Department’s ability to identify potential tax residents based on visa type. It raises questions about long-term stays and the financial interactions these travelers might have within the country.

Thailand hopes that these changes will make the country more attractive to foreign visitors, influencing their decision to travel to Thailand over other destinations. The goal is to attract 80 million overseas visitors by 2027.

Are There Any Limitations to the Extended Visa-Free Stay?

While the extended 60-day stay offers more flexibility to tourists, there are certain limitations. For one, the extension does not change the fact that visitors should not engage in any form of employment during their stay unless they have the appropriate work permit. Additionally, despite the ability to perform border runs, this practice may attract scrutiny from immigration authorities, and repeated re-entries could lead to questioning about the visitor’s intentions.

How Do These Changes Enhance Tourism and Simplify Travel?

These policy changes reflect Thailand’s commitment to enhancing its tourism sector. By extending visa-free stays and introducing new visa categories, the country is making travel more appealing and straightforward for visitors from around the globe. The expansion of the Visa on Arrival and e-Visa systems further simplifies the process, making it easier for tourists to plan their trips.

“Thailand aims to welcome up to 80 million foreign tourists by 2027,” as highlighted in recent government statements. This target demonstrates the ambitious scope of these changes.

What Are the Key Benefits for Remote Workers and Digital Nomads?

The introduction of long-term visas specifically tailored for digital nomads and remote workers demonstrates Thailand’s adaptability to modern work trends. By allowing stays of up to five years, with each period capped at 180 days, Thailand is positioning itself as an ideal location for remote work. The beautiful landscapes, affordable cost of living, and rich culture make it a highly attractive destination for this demographic.

How Will Medical Tourists Benefit?

Medical tourists are another group that stands to gain from Thailand’s updated visa policies. The Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) offers a more extended stay, allowing them ample time for consultation, treatment, and recovery without the constant need to renew or extend their visas. Thailand is known for its high-quality medical care at relatively low costs, and this new visa could make it an even more enticing option for those seeking medical procedures.

Thailand’s recent changes in visa policies are extensive and geared toward improving the country’s attractiveness as a global travel destination. Expanding the list of countries eligible for visa-free entry, introducing new visa categories like the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV), and extending the validity of digital nomad visas all aim to simplify travel logistics and boost tourism.

These updates signify Thailand’s proactive approach in adapting to current travel trends and meeting the needs of various types of travelers, from tourists and medical visitors to remote workers and digital nomads. By making it easier for international visitors to enter and stay in the country, Thailand positions itself as a top choice for anyone looking to travel, work, or receive medical care abroad.

For further details and updates on Thailand’s visa policies, refer to the official Thai Immigration website .

Learn Today:

Glossary of immigration terms.

• The ability to enter a country without needing to obtain a visa in advance. Travelers receive a visa-exempt stamp upon arrival, allowing them to stay in the country for a specified duration.
• A type of visa that can be obtained at the point of entry into a country, rather than before departure. It typically allows for short-term stays and is available to nationals from certain countries.
• An electronic visa that can be applied for and issued online. This system simplifies the application process by eliminating the need to visit a consulate or embassy in person.
• A digital travel permit that enables travelers to enter a country for a short period without a traditional visa. It is linked to the traveler’s passport electronically.
• A type of visa specifically designed for remote workers who wish to live and work in a foreign country. This visa often allows for extended stays and is aimed at individuals who can work from anywhere using digital technology.

This Article In A Nutshell:

As of June 1, 2024, Thailand’s visa-free entry policy includes 93 nations, such as the UK, USA, and Australia. Travelers can now enjoy up to 60 days without a visa. This change aims to boost tourism and simplify travel for international visitors. For more info, visit Thailand’s immigration website. — By VisaVerge.com

Disclaimer: If you use any information from this article, link back to the original article URL on VisaVerge.com . Thank you for respecting our content and giving proper credit.

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Thailand targets tourism boost with longer stays for visitors, students, 'digital nomads'

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Reporting by Panarat Thepgumpanant and Chayut Setboonsarng; Editing by Martin Petty

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World Chevron

US imposes visa restrictions on Chinese, Hong Kong officials, State Dept says

The United States is imposing new visa restrictions on Chinese and Hong Kong officials over guilty verdicts in the National Security Law trial of pro-democracy organizers in Hong Kong, the State Department said on Friday.

Thailand Expands Visa-Free Entry to Dozens of Countries in Bid to Attract More Visitors

Thailand is rolling out a variety of new visa programs designed to stimulate tourism.

The new measures, approved by Thai officials on Tuesday, include a 60-day visa exemption, a new Destination Thailand visa program and a measure that allows foreign university students who have studied in the country to remain for a year after graduation.

The new slate of visa measures also includes a long-stay visa for retirees, according to China Daily . Tourists from some 36 countries are expected to benefit from the sweeping changes when it comes to exploring Thailand.

Most notably, the visa announcements include an extension of the visa-free period for travelers from 30 days to 60 days. That change is set to take effect in June.

Additionally, Thailand's government has increased the number of countries that are eligible for a visa-free stay. Now a total of 93 countries are part of the program. Previously the figure was 57. Some of the countries that have been added include Cambodia, India, Kazakhstan and Laos.

The changes also include an increase in the number of countries whose citizens are eligible for visa on arrival. That program has been expanded from 19 countries to 31.

Digital nomads, remote workers, freelancers, Muay Thai students and Thai food students will also benefit from the visa changes. The allowed period of stay in Thailand for individuals in this category has been tripled from the current 60 days to 180 days.

The Thai government is also lengthening the duration that foreign university students can remain in the country. They can now stay up to one year. The additional time will allow them to work in jobs that are not restricted to just Thai citizens, according to China Daily.

It is estimated that the cost of lost collections from all the new visa measures totals about $340 million annually.

This website is managed by Siam Legal International - a law firm in Thailand

Visa on Arrival

Updated on April 23, 2024 by Siam Legal International, a Bangkok, Thailand law firm

Securing a Visa on Arrival upon entering Thailand

The Visa On Arrival scheme allows passport holders of 19* listed countries and territories to enter Thailand without needing to apply for a Tourist Visa from a Thai Embassy in their own country.

To receive a Visa on Arrival, a traveler must meet the following requirements:

• Be from an approved country.
• Be visiting Thailand strictly for tourism purposes.
• Hold a genuine passport with a valid expiry of more than 30 days.
• Be able to list a valid accommodation address in Thailand that can be verified. This address can be a hotel or an apartment.
• Must have a confirmed return ticket exiting Thailand within 15 days. Open tickets do not qualify. Traveling overland by train, bus, etc to Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia (including en route to Singapore), Myanmar, etc is not accepted as proof of exiting Thailand.**
• Provide proof of funds of at least 10,000 THB for single travelers, or 20,000 THB per family during your stay in Thailand.
• Pay a fee of 2,000 THB upon entry. This fee is subject to change without notice. It must be paid in cash and only Thai currency is accepted.

** You may be asked to show your flight ticket to Thai immigration officials on entering Thailand. If you do not possess a flight ticket to show that you will exit Thailand within 15 days (or 30 days) of entry, you will most likely be refused entry.

Required Documents

Here are the required documents for visitors who want to enter Thailand with Visa on Arrival:

• Genuine passport valid for 30 days or more.
• One photo with the size of 4 x 6 cm taken within six months.
• Provide a valid address in Thailand.
• Proof of a fully paid return air ticket.
• Completed Visa on Arrival Form TM88: https://www.thaiembassy.com/faq/application-form-for-visa-on-arrival

The visa fee is 2,000 THB for a single entry and is to be paid in cash only. This fee is non-refundable.

You will be granted permission to enter Thailand if you qualify and complete the process list above. The Immigration bureau is responsible to ensure you meet all the requirements so best to be well prepared beforehand. The Visa on Arrival application process is very straightforward, and it can be accomplished quickly upon your arrival in Thailand.

People who are not eligible to enter Thailand under the Visa on Arrival scheme or Visa Exemption rule are required to obtain a visa through a Royal Thai Embassy or Consulate prior to their visit.

* List of countries eligible for the Visa on Arrival

Note: If your country of nationality is not on the list, please check here: https://www.thaiembassy.com/thailand/changes-visa-exempt.php

List of Thailand Immigration Checkpoints for Visa on Arrival

• Suvarnabhumi Airport
• Don Muang International Airport, Bangkok
• Chiangmai International Airport, Chiangmai
• Phuket International Airport, Phuket
• Hatyai International Airport, Songkhla
• U Tapao Airport, Rayong
• Mae Sai Immigration Checkpoint, Chiengrai
• Chieng Saen Immigration Checkpoint, Chiengrai
• Chieng Khong Immigration Checkpoint, Chiengrai
• Betong Immigration Checkpoint, Yala
• Sadoa Immigration Checkpoint, Songkhla
• Samui Airport, Surat Thani
• Sukhothai International Airport, Tak Immigration Checkpoint
• Bangkok Harbour Immigration Checkpoint, Bangkok
• Sri Racha Immigration Checkpoint, Chonburi
• Mabtaput Immigration Checkpoint, Rayong
• Nong Khai Immigration Checkpoint, Nong Khai
• Samui Immigration Checkpoint, Surat Thani
• Phuket Immigration Checkpoint, Phuket
• Satun Immigration Checkpoint, Satun
• Krabi Immigration Checkpoint, Krabi
• Songkhla Harbour Immigration Checkpoint, Songkhla
• Chiangrai Airport Immigration Checkpoint, Chiangrai
• Surat Thani Airport Immigration Checkpoint, Surat Thani

There are currency exchange counters at major airports. If a traveler is entering Thailand by land, it is best to exchange currency for Thai Baht before leaving their home country.

Long-Term Visa Options for Thailand

Thailand offers several options for long-term visas:

Thai Marriage Visa

Persons married to a Thai national can apply for a Thai Marriage Visa . It allows spouses to reside in Thailand for extended periods, facilitating family reunification and life together in the Kingdom.

Thailand Retirement Visa

Persons 50 years of age or older can apply for the Thailand Retirement Visa . It offers an opportunity for retirees to enjoy extended stays in the country, providing access to various benefits and amenities conducive to a fulfilling retirement lifestyle.

LTR Visa Thailand

Certain categories are open for a long-term visa for Thailand. Geared towards fostering overseas investment and economic growth, this Thai visa permits holders to reside and work in Thailand for up to a decade. It offers a range of benefits, including access to healthcare, education, and the ability to establish a bank account, making it an attractive option for those looking to establish roots in Thailand. Visit LTR Visa Thailand for full details.

• Thailand Elite Visa

High net worth individuals may apply for a privilege entry visa valid for 5 to 20 years. Unlike other visa types, Elite Visa holders can stay in Thailand continuously without the need to exit every 90 days. They also enjoy expedited immigration processes and the option to use privilege points for representation during 90-day reporting, making it an exceptional choice for those seeking seamless residency in Thailand.

COVID and Vaccination Requirements

Visa on Arrival is issued without need of showing any proof of COVID vaccination.

Travel Insurance for Visa on Arrival Visitors

With travel restrictions eased, Thailand removed the need for Visa on Arrival travelers to provide proof of a valid Covid Insurance policy. It is important to note that foreign visitors are not eligible for free medical care while in Thailand. If a foreigner requires medical attention, they will need to cover any expenses themselves.

Travel insurance is a wise choice for people traveling abroad. It not only covers Covid-related incidents but also:

• Medical emergencies
• Personal injury & accidents
• Missed or delayed flights
• Damage to belongings
• Lost luggage

To ensure you have the best cover possible while visiting Thailand and to avoid potential exclusions or conditions, choose Travel Insurance which is designed for Thailand.

AXA Thailand: Thailand Travel Insurance

AXA Sawasdee Thailand is a well-known and respected insurance company in Thailand that caters to travelers from around the world. Their policies are straightforward, approved in minutes, and trusted by Thai authorities and medical institutions.

For the best Travel Insurance for a Visa on Arrival traveler, you can look to AXA Thailand .

Top Services are provided by Siam Legal International, Thailand’s largest legal service network.

• Thai Retirement Visa
• Thai Notary Service
• Property Lawyer
• Divorce Lawyer Thailand
• US Visa from Thailand
• UK Visa from Thailand
• Litigation Lawyer
• Drafting of Thai Will
• Company Registration Thailand

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Thailand Expands Visa-Free Entry: 93 Nations Now Qualify

Peden Doma Bhutia , Skift

May 30th, 2024 at 7:26 AM EDT

Thailand's aggressive push to attract tourists through these visa promotions highlights its commitment to reviving the tourism sector and ensuring long-term economic stability.

Peden Doma Bhutia

In an effort to attract more tourists and remote workers, the Thai cabinet this week rolled out a series of new visa promotions, including visa-free and visa-on-arrival schemes, extended stays for students, and reduced compulsory health insurance for retirees.

Starting June 1, the number of countries eligible for visa-free entry to Thailand will increase from 57 to 93. Under the new scheme, visitors can stay in Thailand for up to 60 days, compared to the earlier limit of 30 days.

The countries eligible for visa-free stays include key tourism markets like China and India, as well as U.S., UK, Albania, UAE, Cambodia, Jamaica, Kazakhstan, Laos, Mexico, Morocco, Panama, Romania, Sri Lanka and Uzbekistan.

The Thai cabinet has also approved visa-on-arrival for 31 countries, up from the previous 19. This list includes Armenia, Saudi Arabia, Serbia, Fiji and Malta

Government spokesperson Chai Wacharonke emphasized the importance of tourism to Thailand’s national economy and its role in job creation. From January to May 26 this year, Thailand recorded 14.3 million tourists and aims to reach a record 40 million foreign arrivals for the full year, with an expected revenue of THB 3.5 trillion ($95.73 billion).

In comparison, 2019 saw a record 39.9 million arrivals, generating THB 1.91 trillion in revenue.

New Measures for Students and Digital Nomads

In a bid to retain talent, postgraduate students will now be able to stay in Thailand for an additional year after graduation, provided they obtain certification from the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research, and Innovation.

This extension aims to help foreign students secure employment in the country. According to Wacharonke currently there are approximately 40,000 such students in Thailand

Digital nomads will also benefit from the new visa policies. The “Destination Thailand Visa” will now be valid for five years, allowing a 180-day maximum stay per visit, extendable for another 180 days, with another THB 10,000 ($270) fee.

Previously, digital nomads were entitled to only two 30-day stays. Wacharonke noted that this measure targets remote workers, freelancers, and those interested in learning Muay Thai and Thai cuisine.

Eased Requirements for Retirees

Retirees aged 50 years or more seeking long-stay visas will benefit from reduced health insurance requirements. Currently, these visitors must have health insurance coverage worth THB 3 million ($82,000). The requirement is now lowered to THB 440,000 ($12,000), effective for applicants from September to December. Additionally, the cabinet approved the expansion of e-visa application services at Thai consulates and embassies, increasing from 47 to 94 locations starting in September.

Targeting Key Source Markets

China and India are among the largest and most important source markets for global tourism, and Thailand is keen to capture the interest of travelers from these countries.

Data firm ForwardKeys noted a 212% surge in travel from China to Kazakhstan during this year’s Labor Day holiday, with notable increases to Singapore, Azerbaijan, Malaysia, and the Maldives, following the relaxation of visa policies.

While Thailand and China have agreed on a reciprocal permanent visa exemption , Skift had earlier reported that Thailand’s slower recovery is attributed to ongoing safety concerns.

India is also a critical market for Thailand , being the fastest-growing source of tourists. In 2023, over 1.6 million Indian travelers visited Thailand, making it the fourth-largest source market for the country. These tourists contributed more than THB 63 billion ($1.7 billion) in spending.

In November last year, Thailand decided to grant visa-free entry to Indian citizens from November 10 till May this year. The Thai cabinet this month approved a plan to extend the visa exemption for six more months.

Skift India Report

The Skift India Report is your go-to newsletter for all news related to travel, tourism, airlines, and hospitality in India.

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Tags: asia monthly , china outbound , digital nomads , dwell , e-visas , india outbound , students , thailand , visa waiver

Photo credit: Thailand is making a concerted effort to attract more tourists and remote workers by rolling out a series of new visa promotions. Darren Lawrence / Unsplash

Qatar is welcoming 102 countries visa-free, check your visa status here .

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Citizens of over 102 countries are eligible for a visa-free entry to the State of Qatar. Allowable lengths of stay vary, and visitors are kindly advised to check with an authorised entity for the terms and conditions that apply.

Visa requirements

Visiting Qatar made easy

Visitors from all around the world can enter Qatar either by obtaining visa on arrival, or by filling out simple online applications, depending on the passport they carry.

This webpage  is designed to keep you up-to-date on the visa policies that are relevant to you, and the process you need to follow to apply for a visa, if necessary.

Visa-free entry

Nationals of eligible countries do not require any prior visa arrangements and can obtain a visa waiver upon arrival to Qatar, by presenting a valid passport with a minimum validity of three months and a confirmed onward or return ticket. 

For nationals of the countries/regions listed below, the waiver will be valid for 30 days from the date of issuance and entitle its holder to spend up to 30 days in Qatar.

Andorra, Australia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Bolivia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Brazil, Brunei, Canada, Chile, China, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, Ecuador, Falkland Islands, French Guiana, Georgia, Guyana, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Iran, Ireland, Japan, Kazakhstan, Lebanon, Macao, Macedonia, Maldives, Mauritius, Mexico, Moldova, Monaco, Montenegro, New Zealand, Pakistan, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Russia, Rwanda, San Marino, Singapore, South Africa, South Korea, Suriname, Thailand, United Kingdom, United States, Uruguay, Uzbekistan Vatican city and Venezuela.

For nationals of the countries/regions listed below, the waiver will be valid for 180 days from the date of issuance and entitle its holder to spend up to 90 days in Qatar during either a single trip or on multiple trips.

Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina, Austria, Bahamas, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Dominican Republic, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Serbia, Seychelles, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey and Ukraine. 

Qatar-Oman Joint Tourist Visa (Visa on Arrival)

This visa is issued upon arrival and is valid for 30 days for the State of Qatar and the Sultanate of Oman. It allows for multiple entry to both countries and is extendable for an additional 30 days for a fee. Citizens of the following countries are eligible for the joint visa:

Andorra, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brunei, Canada, Cyprus, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Monaco, Montenegro, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, San Marino, Singapore, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom, United States, Vatican City

Visa on arrival – mandated hotel requirement

The Ministry of Interior Qatar currently requires nationals of the countries / regions listed below to hold registration booked through   Discover Qatar website   prior to travelling to Qatar.

India, Iran, Pakistan, Thailand.

Tourist visas

The Qatar tourist visa is available to nationals of all countries, except GCC citizens, but citizens of over 101 countries are eligible for a free visa on arrival (see Visa-free entry above). Travellers of select nationalities will require to pay a fee to obtain a visa on arrival or apply for a tourist visa prior to travel. Visas can be applied for on the  Hayya platform for a cost of QAR 100. 

Afghanistan, Åland Islands, Albania, Algeria, American Samoa, Angola, Anguilla, Antarctica, Aruba, Bangladesh, Barbados, Belarus, Belize, Benin, Bermuda, Bhutan, Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and  Saba, Botswana, Bouvet Island, British Indian Ocean Territory, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cabo Verde, Cambodia, Cameroon, Cayman Islands, Central African Republic, Chad, Christmas Island, Cocos (Keeling) Islands, Comoros, Congo, Congo (the Democratic Republic  of Congo), Cook Islands, Côte d'Ivoire, Curaçao, Djibouti, Dominica, Egypt, El Salvador, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Falkland Islands (Malvinas), Faroe Islands (the), Fiji, French Guiana, French Polynesia, French Southern Territories, Gabon, Gambia, Ghana, Gibraltar, Greenland, Grenada, Guadeloupe, Guam, Guatemala, Guernsey, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Haiti, Heard Island and McDonald  Islands, Holy See (the), Honduras, Iran, Iraq, Isle of Man, Jamaica, Jersey, Jordan, Kenya, Kiribati, Korea (Democratic People's  Republic of Korea), Kyrgyzstan, Laos, Lesotho, Liberia, Libya, Macao, Madagascar, Malawi, Mali, Marshall Islands, Martinique, Mauritania, Mauritius, Mayotte, Micronesia (Federated States  of), Mongolia, Montenegro, Montserrat, Morocco, Mozambique, Myanmar, Namibia, Nauru, Nepal, New Caledonia, Nicaragua, Niger, Nigeria, Niue, Norfolk Island, Northern Mariana Islands, Palau, Palestine, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Pitcairn, Puerto Rico, Réunion, Saint Barthélemy, Saint Helena, Ascension and  Tristan da Cunha, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Martin (French part), Saint Pierre and Miquelon, Saint Vincent and the  Grenadines, Samoa, Sao Tome and Principe, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Sint Maarten (Dutch part), Solomon Islands, Somalia, South Georgia and the South  Sandwich Islands, South Sudan, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Svalbard and Jan Mayen, Swaziland, Syrian Arab Republic, Taiwan (Province of China), Tajikistan, Tanzania, United Republic of  Tanzania, Timor-Leste, Togo, Tokelau, Tonga, Trinidad and Tobago, Tunisia, Turkmenistan, Turks and Caicos Islands, Tuvalu, Uganda, United States Minor Outlying Islands, Vanuatu, Vietnam, Virgin Islands (British), Virgin Islands (U.S.), Wallis and Futuna, Western Sahara, Yemen, Zambia and Zimbabwe.

Applying for a visa using the Hayya platform

Thanks to a host of visa facilitation measures, Qatar is now the most open country in the Middle East. Visitors from all around the world can now enter Qatar either by obtaining visa on arrival, or by filling out simple online applications, depending on the passport they carry.

This webpage is designed to keep you up-to-date on the visa policies that are relevant to you, and the process you need to follow to apply for a visa, if necessary.

Hayya card validity extended until 2024

Are you a Hayya Card holder living outside the State of Qatar? We’ve got news! 

The validity of the Hayya Card has been extended and will now allow Hayya Card holders to enter the State of Qatar until February, 2024.

Travel requirements: 

- Proof of a confirmed hotel reservation or accommodation with family or friends approved through the Hayya portal

- Passport valid for no less than three months upon arrival in the State of Qatar 

- Valid health insurance during the period of stay in the country. We recommend all travellers visiting the State of Qatar to have a valid health insurance policy covering Qatar's medical facilities. Those who don’t already have an insurance policy are welcome to purchase one on arrival in the State of Qatar. For more information on travel insurance, click  here .

- Return tickets

All Hayya card holders visiting Qatar will have access to the following:

- The 'Hayya with Me' feature' allowing Hayya Card holders to invite up to three family members or friends

- A multiple-entry permit 

- No fees will apply

Qatar Transit Visa

Qatar Airways passengers transiting in Hamad International Airport for a minimum of 5 hours are eligible to apply for the Qatar Transit Visa. It is free of charge, valid for up to 96 hours (four days) and open to passengers of all nationalities**.

For more information about Qatar Transit tours, please click  here .

Visa Exemptions

Nationals of the Gulf Cooperation Council countries (Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia and United Arab Emirates) do not require a visa to enter Qatar.

Mandatory health insurance

We recommend all travellers visiting the State of Qatar to have a valid health insurance policy covering Qatar's medical facilities. Those who don’t already have an insurance policy are welcome to purchase one on arrival in the State of Qatar. For more information on travel insurance, click  here .

* Service fees only apply. ** All visas are approved and issued at the sole discretion of Qatar's Ministry of Interior.

Disclaimer: All visa rules and policies for international visitors are subject to change without notice and are approved and issued at the sole discretion of Qatar's Ministry of Interior.

Get expert help to book a dream Qatar trip

Need some help planning your next Qatar holiday or business trip? With Qatar Concierge, our dedicated travel team is here to help you book flights, plus guide you on the best hotels, restaurants, attractions and more. Call  0161 527 4409  and they’ll be happy to help. Please note that this service is not for visa queries, please visit our  Visa page  for more information.

Things to know before travelling

Want to travel visa-free? Check if you qualify here.

Getting here

Planning your trip to Qatar? Check how to get here.

Travel tips

Make the most of your visit with our handy travel guide.

Getting around

From a dhow boat to our world-class metro, here’s how to easily explore Qatar.

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