Thailand has made it easy for citizens from dozens of countries in the world by making them visa-free. This makes the Asian nation one of the easiest for last-minute travel. However, other travelers, and those wishing to stay longer, do need a visa, but it is relatively easy to obtain.

Do you need a visa to visit Thailand?

Thailand has many attractions for international visitors, but it is important to ensure that your travel documents are in order and that your visa covers the full period you wish to stay.

However, as compared with other countries, entry procedures in Thailand are straightforward whether arriving by air or overland. For instance, the countries share land borders with Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia and Myanmar. For this reason, many travelers enter and exit multiple times while experiencing a multi-destination trip in Southeast Asia.

Types of visas

The majority of travelers enter Thailand on tourist visas (or are eligible for entry visa-free). However, there are other types of visas, including non-immigrant visas for people studying in the country and for business travelers.

In each case, the traveler must hold a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the arrival date, with a number of spare blank pages. Meanwhile, whichever visa you are traveling on, it is necessary to show your passport and completed arrival and departure cards on arrival in Thailand.

The departure card will be collected when you exit the country, so keep it in a safe place with your passport. Note that you can be denied entry if you do not have proof of an onward ticket, as well as sufficient funds to cover your stay. However, this option is rarely checked. Your arrival card must have the address you are staying at in Thailand.

Citizens of which countries can travel to Thailand visa-free?

Citizens of many countries can travel to Thailand visa-free with stays of up to 45 days. The list of countries and the exact permitted duration of stay do vary. However, that list usually includes Australia, Canada, most of Europe, Ireland, New Zealand, South Africa, the UK and the US. Moreover, it does include the more prosperous Asian nations and countries in the Middle East.

Meanwhile, a smaller list of countries enjoys visa-free travel as part of bilateral agreements, including citizens of Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, South Korea and Tunisia.

Those with visa-free access will need a passport with at least six months of validity and may be asked to show proof of funds and an onward/return travel ticket.

Tourist visas on arrival (VoA) in Thailand

Citizens from some of the smaller European countries, and a few in Asia, including Indian and Chinese travelers, can apply for a tourist visa on arrival. This visa is valid for a 30-day stay, but for long stays, these travelers can apply for a visa through a Thai embassy or consulate.

Travelers can also get a tourist visa in advance of travel from their local embassy or consulate.

For those travelers who are not eligible for visa-free travel or a VoA, it will be necessary to apply for a tourist visa in advance, which is valid for three or six months. As fees and conditions vary, it is best to contact a local Thai embassy or consulate to find out the latest rules.

E-visas for Thailand

For convenience, the Thai government offers an e-visa process online for eligible nationalities. It is best to use the Q&A form on Thailand’s e-visa website to find out about eligibility. If your nationality is eligible for an e-visa, you can create an online account. Once done, follow the steps to provide the necessary information digitally. You will then be required to pay the application fee ahead of processing.

Should the application be successful, a confirmation email will be sent. This should be printed out ready to show to airline and immigration officials when traveling to Thailand.

Can tourist visas be extended?

Visas can be extended for an additional 30 days at any immigration office. However, acceptance will be at the discretion of Thai immigration authorities. Find out more on the website of the Immigration Bureau.

Meanwhile, all types of visa extensions will require two passport-sized photos. Photocopies of the photo and visa pages of your passport will also be required.

Travelers can always check the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website for immigration and visa policies. Alternatively, they can contact the nearest Thai embassy or consulate for assistance.