Thailand Visa Types: Your Complete Guide

So you are going to Thailand, great choice! But you are not sure if you need a visa, which visa you need or what options you have. No problem you are definitely in the right place. The type of visa you need ultimately depends on your purpose and where you come from. Regardless, It’s important to know about the different Thailand visa types when planning a trip. This guide will cover everything you need to know about Thailand’s visa options. We will share eligibility requirements, application methods and other important details. So let’s get started.

Thailand Visa Types Highlights

• Thailand offers a diverse range of visa options, including Tourist Visa, Non-Immigrant Visa, and Permanent Resident Visa.
• The duration and requirements for each visa type vary, with some allowing for visa-free entry or visa-on-arrival.
• Certain visas, such as the Business Visa and Retirement Visa, have specific eligibility criteria and income requirements.
• The processing time for a Thai visa can range from 2 to 10 working days, depending on the visa type and application method.
• Visa fees in Thailand can vary significantly, from $30 for a Tourist Visa to around $250 for a Non-Immigrant Visa.

Tourism: Visa or No Visa?

Travelling for tourism purposes, visa or no visa, that is the question! It depends on your nationality and how long you plan to stay for. In this section we will look at 2 main options these are the tourist visa exemption and the Thai tourist visa. After that we will look at a lesson common option which is the transit visa.

Tourist Visa Exemption

If you are from the lucky 93 countries on the list of countries which benefit from the Thai tourist visa exemption then congratulations! You may not need a visa after all. Therefore, you can enjoy 60 days in Thailand visa free. You will simply receive a visa exemption stamp in your passport when you arrive at certain airports or when you cross at a land borders. This is a handy option., the stamp itself will contain an expiry date. That is the date that you have to leave by. It is worth noting that the exemption can be extended by visiting an immigration office in Thailand and there are some additional requirements and conditions, that you should be aware of.

To see if your country is on the list and to learn more about the Thai tourist visa exemption, check out this article: Thailand Visa Exemption: Hassle-Free Travel Guide

Tourist Visa

Not covered by the Tourist Visa Exemption then you may need a Thailand Tourist Visa. Which is a document required for foreign visitors planning to stay in the country. It’s issued by Thai embassies or consulates before your departure. Upon arrival, you’ll receive a permit to stay, typically for 60 days. This visa can be extended once for an additional 30 days within Thailand, but it’s subject to immigration officer approval. A Tourist Visa usually costs between $30 and $50, numbers can change due to exchange rates and where you apply. Normally, The time it takes to get your visa can vary. Therefore, It’s smart to apply early, before your trip, to avoid any problems. Also you should be mindful of any public holidays in Thailand which may affect the processing of your visa.

Remember that every case is different and you should always check application requirements based on your own circumstances. Applying in person is preferred but there are 2 other options that you may be eligible for these are visa on arrival and E-visa.

For more information about the Thai tourist visa get informed here: Thailand Tourist Visa: Your Guide to Visiting Thailand

Visa on Arrival

Alternatively, a Visa on Arrival (VOA) can be acquired at designated airports for those with eligible nationalities. This option offers flexibility but often has shorter stay durations and higher fees than an e-Visa. It’s important to consider factors like nationality, desired length of stay, and required documents when choosing the appropriate visa option. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always consult the official website of the Royal Thai Embassy or Consulate in your country. Also VOAs may not be extendable, so always check.

For more information about the Thai visa on arrival and to check if your country is on the list of eligible countries check this article out: Visa on Arrival Thailand: Easy Travel to Thailand

E-Visa

An e-Visa is an electronic visa that allows eligible foreign nationals to apply for a Thai visa online before traveling to the country. This convenient option eliminates the need to visit a Thai embassy or consulate in person. To apply for an e-Visa, you typically need to create an online account, provide personal information, upload passport and photo, and pay the visa fee. Once approved, the e-Visa is electronically linked to your passport.

Find more information about the E-visa here: Thailand E-Visa: Easy Online Application Process

Extending Tourist Visa

If you wish to stay in Thailand beyond the initial 60-day tourist visa period, you can typically apply for a 30-day extension at a local immigration office. This extension will require you to submit an application form, passport, recent photo, and a fee of 1,900 baht. It’s important to note that granting the extension is at the discretion of the immigration officer, and having a valid reason for staying longer may increase your chances of approval. Be sure to apply for the extension well before your current visa expires to avoid penalties. While it’s possible to extend your stay, it’s crucial to plan ahead and ensure you have the necessary documents and funds. Overstaying without proper authorization is a serious offense with potential consequences.

Learn more about extending your visa here: Extend Your Thailand Tourist Visa: Easy Guide

Special Tourist Visa (No longer Available)

The Thailand Special Tourist Visa (STV) was an option that lets visitors stay up to 270 days. This visa was made to boost tourism hit by COVID-19. To clarify this visa in not available anymore.

Transit Visa

Just passing through? Depending on your citizenship and/or layover time, you may need a Transit Visa for Thailand. What is a Transit Visa? you may be thinking. A Transit Visa allows you to pass through Thailand on your way to another destination. It’s specifically for travelers who have a confirmed onward flight and will not be leaving the airport transit area. If your layover in Thailand is longer than 12 hours, there is a higher chance that you may need a Transit Visa. Leaving the airport transit area? If you plan to leave the airport during your layover, then a transit visa may also be needed.

For more information about edibility, requirements, how to Apply for a Transit Visa and the process for applying for a Transit Visa the check out this article: Transit Visa Thailand: Quick Guide for Travelers

Non Immigrant Visa Types in Thailand

Thailand offers various Non-Immigrant Visa categories to accommodate different purposes of stay. These visa types let you stay longer, work (with a work permit) and open a bank account, based on your visa type. The most popular ones are the Non-B Visa, Non-O Visa, and Non-B Investment Visa. It is extremely Important to consider the following aspects:

Non Immigrant B Visa (Business or Employment)

The Non Immigrant B Visa which is also known as the business visa or the work visa is for those who want to work legally in Thailand. In order to work, you have to get a work permit as well. We will cover more information about work permits later. Business activities may include, but are not limited to working for an international company, teaching, or researching in Thailand. This type of visa normally lasts for a year but can be made longer.

Usually you will need a valid passport with at least 6 months of remaining validity; an invitation or confirmation letter from your Thai employer or business partner, clearly stating the purpose of your visit; additional supporting documents, such as proof of qualifications, a company profile, or financial statements and proof of sufficient financial funds to support your stay in Thailand. A Business Visa Single Entry, costs at the time of writing this, 2,000THB whereas a Business Visa (Multiple-Entry) costs 5,000THB.

Planning to work or do business in the kingdom? Or you simply want to know more about what it takes? Head to this article: Thailand Business Visa: Your Guide to Visas and Work Permits

Non Immigrant O Visa (Family, Retirement, Marriage Visa)

The Non-Immigrant O visa is a versatile visa type in Thailand catering to various family and personal circumstances. It encompasses three main categories:

1. Spouse/Dependent (O): Granted to foreign spouses or parents of Thai children, allowing them to accompany their Thai family member who is working or studying in Thailand.
2. Retirement (O-A): Designed for foreigners aged 50 and above with a substantial pension income, permitting long-term residence in Thailand for retirement purposes.
3. Marriage (O): Issued to foreign spouses of Thai citizens, providing a legal framework for extended stays and family life in the country.

Each category has specific requirements regarding documentation, financial proofs, and visa validity, which can vary depending on the individual’s circumstances. Here is a snapshot of the the two most popular visa types attached to the Non-O.

Visa Type	Eligibility	Financial Requirements	Validity
Thailand Retirement Visa	Age 50+, valid foreign passport	Monthly income of 65,000 THB or 800,000 THB deposit	1 year, renewable annually
Thailand Marriage Visa	Married to Thai national	400,000 THB bank deposit, 40,000 THB monthly income	1 year, renewable annually

Non Immigrant O-A Visa (Retirement Visa)

To get a Thailand Retirement Visa, you need to be at least 50 and have a foreign passport. You have to show you have a monthly income of 65,000 THB or a deposit of 800,000 THB. Or you can use both. You’ll also need to show proof of living in Thailand, like a 6-month lease. With this visa, you can live in Thailand for a year, and you can keep renewing it yearly. But, you can’t work. If your spouse doesn’t qualify for this visa, they may get a Thai Dependent Visa. This is if you can show you can support them financially.

Planning to retire in Thailand? Learn more here: Retirement Visa Thailand: Your Guide to Golden Years

Thailand Marriage Visa

For a Thailand Marriage Visa, you need to be married to a Thai citizen. You must keep a deposit of 400,000 THB in a Thai bank for 2 months. You also need to show a monthly income of at least 40,000 THB. This visa also lets you stay in Thailand for a year, with yearly renewals. If you get divorced, you must give up the visa and leave Thailand.

Married to a Thai or going to get married to a Thai, learn more here: Thailand Marriage Visa: Your Guide to Residency

Thailand Spouse/Dependent/Family Visa

This visa is designed for foreigners who are married to Thai citizens or have Thai children. To qualify, you’ll need to provide proof of your relationship, such as a marriage certificate or your child’s birth certificate. Additional documents might include your Thai spouse’s ID, proof of financial stability, and a criminal background check. The visa typically allows for a stay of 90 days, which can be extended to one year within Thailand.

Non Immigrant ED Visa (Education)

The Non-Immigrant ED Visa (Education) Visa is specifically designed for individuals who intend to partake in education-related activities in Thailand. Such as studying, attend seminars, undergo training, or internships in Thailand. It’s a crucial document for foreign students and participants in educational programs within the country.  

There are two main types of ED Visas:

Non-Immigrant ED Visa: This is the standard visa for students and participants in educational programs.  
Non-Immigrant ED Plus Visa: Primarily for international students enrolled in bachelor’s degree programs or higher. It offers additional benefits like re-entry without permits and easier visa extensions.

For more information check out this article: Thai Education Visa: Studying in Thailand Guide

Non Immigrant M Visa (Media)

The M Visa (Media Visa) in Thailand is a non-immigrant visa specifically for foreign journalists, film producers, and media professionals who intend to work in Thailand. This visa is required for activities such as news reporting, filming documentaries, or creating commercials within the country.

Non Immigrant F Visa (Official Duties)

The Non-Immigrant F Visa (Official Duties) for Thailand is designed for individuals who need to enter the country to perform official duties, usually related to government or international organizations.

Non Immigrant R Visa (Religious Missions)

The R Visa (Religious Missions) also know as the religion visa in Thailand is a non-immigrant visa designed for foreigners who wish to engage in religious work or missionary activities in Thailand. This visa is typically granted to those who have received approval from the relevant governmental departments, such as the Department of Religious Affairs or the National Bureau of Buddhism, and who are sponsored by a recognized religious organization.

Non Immigrant IB Visa (Investment)

The Non-Immigrant IB Visa is designed for foreign investors in Thailand. To qualify, you must invest at least 2 million Thai Baht in a Thai business approved by the Board of Investment (BOI). This visa allows you to stay in Thailand for one year and can be extended if your investment increases to 10 million Baht or more. It’s important to note that while this visa permits investment activities, it doesn’t automatically grant work permission; a separate work permit is required for employment.

Non Immigrant RS Visa (Research/Training)

The Non-Immigrant RS Visa (Research/Training) is specifically designed for foreigners who are coming to Thailand to conduct scientific research, training, or teaching in a research institute.  

They must have prior approval from the National Research Council of Thailand (NRCT) this is mandatory. Typically valid for 90 days from the date of issuance and it can be extended if necessary, but requires approval. Work permits are not automatically included and may require a separate work permit depending on the nature of the work.

Other Visa Types

Thailand Elite Visa

Thailand Elite Visa also known as Thailand Privilege is a long-term residency program designed to attract high-net-worth individuals and retirees to Thailand. It offers multiple entry visas with durations ranging from 5 to 20 years, allowing holders to stay in the country without the need for frequent visa renewals. Beyond visa privileges, the program provides exclusive benefits such as fast-track immigration, access to luxury services, and special privileges at airports and government offices. While it doesn’t grant work permits, it offers a comfortable and convenient lifestyle for those seeking extended stays in Thailand.

The cost of the Thailand Elite Visa varies depending on the package chosen and its duration. It’s considered a premium service, offering a range of privileges beyond the standard visa process. It’s important to note that while the Thailand Elite Visa provides significant benefits, it might not be suitable for everyone, as there are other visa options available for specific purposes.

If you would like to see more about what it takes to get a Thai Elite Visa, then have a read of this article: Elite Visa Thailand: Exclusive Long-Term Stay Program

Thailand Smart Visa

Thailand’s Smart Visa is a long-term residence permit designed to attract highly skilled professionals, investors, and entrepreneurs to contribute to the country’s economic growth. It targets specific industries deemed crucial for Thailand’s development. Furthermore, Holders of a Smart Visa enjoy benefits such as expedited visa processes, work permit exemptions, and access to various government support services. The visa is categorized based on the applicant’s qualifications and contributions, such as talent, investment, or entrepreneurial endeavors.

First, to qualify for a Smart Visa, applicants must meet specific criteria related to their field of expertise, investment amount, or business plan. The program aims to foster innovation and knowledge transfer, making Thailand a hub for technology, research, and business. While it offers significant advantages, applicants need to align their goals with the program’s objectives to increase their chances of approval.

How smart are you? Find out if you qualify for the smart visa: Smart Visa Thailand: Work & Live in the Kingdom

Digital Nomad Visa Thailand

Thailand’s Digital Nomad Visa, officially known as the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV), is designed to attract remote workers to the country. This long-stay visa allows digital nomads to live and work remotely in Thailand for up to one year, with the possibility of extending for another year. To qualify, applicants typically need to demonstrate a minimum income and provide proof of their remote employment. The DTV offers a range of benefits including multiple entry and exit privileges, the ability to bring dependents, and streamlined immigration procedures. It aims to position Thailand as a preferred destination for digital nomads by providing a supportive environment for remote work and a high quality of life.

For more information about Thailand’s Digital Nomad Visa, officially known as the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV), check out this article: Digital Nomad Visa Thailand: Work Remotely

Permanent Resident Visa

Many foreigners consider getting permanent residency in Thailand. after three years of being on the same visa after extensions, It allows for a stable and extended stay. However, getting the Thailand Permanent Resident Visa is not easy. In addition, It requires meeting strict qualifications and income conditions. There may be a quota of 100 people from each nation who can become residents yearly. Apparently, applications are accepted from October to December. Once you’re a permanent resident, you must visit immigration every year. All in all, this is to validate your stay and avoid any issues. Here is an overview of the main details.

Requirement	Details
Visa History	Before applying, you must have extended your non-immigrant visa for three consecutive years.
Income Requirement	For those married to Thais: 40,000 THB a month Singles: 80,000 THB monthly
Documentation	You will need to show 3 years of tax records to prove you have enough income.

Interested in becoming a permanent resident and learning abut the benefits, check out this article: Thai Permanent Residency: Your Path to Life in Thailand

Important Information for All Visas Types

Required Documents

Figuring out which documents are required depending on your visa type might seem hard. But it can all be made easier when you create your very own visa checklist. Just to reiterate the documents needed for each application will depend on your visa type, situation, background etc. There is no one size fits all. However, the standard documents required for most visas will include a passport valid for at least six months.

Also, a completed visa application form, a recent passport sized photo, and proof of travel plans (for tourism), like a ticket. You have to show you have enough money, which can be done with bank statements or other financial papers. Additional documents for specific types of visas might be needed. For example, for a business visa, you could need an invite from a company or work proof. A marriage visa might ask for your marriage certificate or similar proof of your relationship.

Application Process

To apply for a visa, first, reach out to the Royal Thai Embassy or Consulate in your home country or a country outside of Thailand where you are planning to apply. They will help you get the right application forms and tell you what you need to apply. This is vital because the Thai visa application process can change based on the visa type, where you’re from, where you are applying from and why you’re visiting.

After you collect all the needed papers, like a valid passport, application forms and supporting documents you can apply. You might have to show your passport pictures and travel plans too. How you apply, whether in person or by mail, depends on each embassy. Thai visa application processes from applying to receiving could take as little as around 36 hours to 10 working days or even longer. Every case is different, therefore it is best to ask when you apply and remember to give yourself plenty of time.

Single or Multiple Entry Visa Types

Thailand offers both single and multiple entry visas, depending on your travel plans and the purpose of your visit and visa type. Tourist Visas are normally available as both single and multiple entry options.  
Non-Immigrant Visas, are generally a single entry visa, but there are exceptions for specific categories like business or education. On the other hand, the Thai elite visa, is a long-term multiple entry visa offering various privileges. Keep reading this article to learn more about the Thai Elite Visa Type. There are some vital things to think about when it comes to choosing between single or multiple visa types. Firstly visa fees, the fees vary depending on the visa type and your nationality. In addition, as touched on before, the requirements may be different, each visa type has specific requirements regarding documents, financial proof, and purpose of visit. Concerning extensions, It’s possible to extend your stay in Thailand under certain circumstances, but this requires applying for an extension at an immigration office.

Single Entry Visa Types

Single entry visas are typically valid for 3 months from the date of issuance. Like it says on the tin, it is single entry so you can only come through a border once. If you would like to go out then come back in again more than once then check out the multiple entry visa. Or there is another option which is the re-entry permit or re-entry stamp. Which we will cover a little bit later. The single entry is preferable for short-term visits for tourism, business, or other purposes.  

Multiple Entry Visa Types

Allows multiple entries into Thailand, Ideal for frequent travelers, business people who need to travel to Thailand multiple times within a short period, or those planning extended stays with potential short trips outside the country. Generally, multiple entry visa types cost more money than single visa types. If you are leaving a couple of times then check out if it is worth it to get a multiple entry visa or just get re-entry permits.

Re-entry Permits In Thailand

A Re-entry Permit or a re-entry stamp in Thailand is a document allowing foreign visitors with a valid non-immigrant visa or extension of stay to temporarily leave the country without invalidating their visa. It’s essentially a permission slip to re-enter Thailand within a specific timeframe without having to apply for a new visa. This is particularly useful for those who need to make short trips outside the country while maintaining their legal status in Thailand.

The cost of a Re-entry Permit in Thailand depends on the type single entry is 1,000 baht and multiple entry is 3,800 baht. You can obtain a Re-entry Permit at several locations including: Immigration offices, this includes the main immigration office in Bangkok and other regional offices and International airports, both Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang airports have immigration counters where you can apply.  But remember to leave enough time before your flight as the queues could be long at peak times. Therefore it is advisable to do it at an immigration office prior to departing.

90 Day Reporting

If you have a Non-Immigrant Visa or another long term visa type, you must check in with immigration every 90 days. This is know as the 90 day report. It is worth noting that people with a SMART Visa and other visas do this yearly. So what is it? And what does it entail? It involves reporting your address to the Immigration Bureau every 90 days. Who needs to do it? Anyone on a non-immigrant visa (e.g., marriage, retirement, work)
or anyone on an extension of stay. Tourists are exempt as they generally don’t stay longer than 90 days.

Extending Your Thai Visa

Extending your visa can be easy if you know the steps. But it depends on the type of visa you have and the purpose of the extension. Please see the first section of this article If you are looking for information on extending your Thai tourist visa. So you have been issued a work visa or other visa type (non-immigrant visa) but it is only for 90 days, do not worry! It is not a mistake. The initial period is 90 days, before the 90 days are used up you have to extend your visa after extension your visa will then total 12 months.

To extend your visa, go to your nearest Immigration Office. It will involve an extra payment and you have to meet certain rules. The cost to extend your visa is usually 1,900 Thai Baht. This fee does not change no matter how long you extend for. Getting your visa extension can take a while. You might face long lines and waits at the Immigration Office. So, it’s smart to apply for an extension way before your current visa ends.

Overstaying a visa in Thailand

Overstaying any visa in Thailand is illegal and carries serious consequences. Overstaying a visa in Thailand can incur a fine of 500 Baht per day, up to a maximum of 20,000 Baht. In some cases, police may even arrest individuals who have overstayed their visas and detain them until the fines are paid and deportation arrangements are made. Overstayers may be banned from re-entering the country again in the future. The length of the ban increases with the duration of the overstay. It’s crucial to carefully monitor your visa expiration date and extend it if necessary to avoid penalties.

For more information, check out this article we wrote: Overstaying in Thailand: Consequences and Solutions

Immigration Offices In Thailand

Thailand’s Immigration Offices provide a range of services for foreigners, including issuances, extension, re-entry permits, and alien registration. They also handle enquiries about immigration laws and regulations, offer assistance. To learn more about immigration offices in Thailand, check out our article titled:

Work Permit Requirements

A common misconception is that when you get a visa which allows you to work, you also get a work permit, this is not the case! You have to apply separately as the work permit is isssued by a separate governemnt department. Working without a work permit is illegal. To get a work permit in Thailand, you have to meet certain rules.

Some important considerations are as followed: eligibility, not all foreigners are eligible for work permits as certain professions may have restrictions. Moreover, there are requirements focused on the hiring company, the company you work for must meet specific criteria, such as registered capital and business operations. Regarding visa Extensions, you may need to extend your non-immigrant visa while waiting for the work permit. Please see the above section for more information about extending your type of visa. In addition, do not forget about renewing your work permit! Work permits typically have a one-year validity and need to be renewed.

You should always seek professional assistance, consider hiring an immigration lawyer or consultant to guide you through the process. Or speak with those in charge at your company, this is normally carried out by HR. and/or Legal Departments. Furthermore, always check for updates as Immigration laws and regulations can change, so stay informed about the latest requirements. Last but not least always plan ahead: The work permit process can be time-consuming, so start planning early. Below are the key steps involved.

Work Permit Process: Key Steps

1. Obtain a Non-Immigrant Visa:
   • You’ll need a non-immigrant visa before entering Thailand to work. The specific visa type depends on your employment category.
2. Find Employment:
   • Secure a job offer from a Thai company. The company will typically assist with the work permit application.
3. Work Permit Application:
   • The application process is usually handled by your employer. Required documents may include:
     • Passport
     • Non-immigrant visa
     • Job offer
     • Employment contract
     • Educational certificates
     • Medical certificate
     • Photographs
     • Other documents as specified by the Department of Labor
4. Work Permit Issuance:
   • If approved, you’ll receive a work permit. The processing time can vary.

For more information about work permits, please check out this article: Getting a Work Permit in Thailand: Essential Guide

Thailand Visa Types for Specific Nationalities

Visa requirements for Thailand differ based on where you’re from. Let’s see what visas are available for U.S. citizens and Indian nationals.

U.S. Citizens

Great news for U.S. citizens – you can stay in Thailand visa free thanks to the visa exemption program. It means you can enjoy your trip without worrying about a visa. If you plan to stay longer, you must check out other visa options.

Indian Nationals

Currently, Indian nationals enjoy the convenience of a visa-on-arrival (VOA) for stays up to 60 days in Thailand. This applies to most major airports in the country. However, for longer stays or specific purposes like business, study, or retirement, different visa types are required. These include Tourist Visas, which can be extended for up to 90 days, and Non-Immigrant Visas for various categories such as business, education, marriage, and retirement. It’s essential to check the specific requirements and apply through the appropriate channels, such as the Royal Thai Embassy or Consulate in India.
While the VOA is currently available, it’s crucial to keep updated on any changes in regulations. Additionally, ensure your passport is valid for at least 30 days beyond your intended stay and be prepared to show proof of accommodation and sufficient funds. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always consult the official website of the Royal Thai Embassy or Consulate in India.

Thailand Visa Types Concluded

To sum up, Thailand offers a diverse range of visa options to accommodate various travel and residency needs. From short-term tourist visits to long-term retirement plans, there’s a visa type to suit every individual. Visa applications and learning about the different visa types in Thailand can be daunting. However, understanding the key distinctions between tourist visas, non-immigrant visas, and special visa programs is crucial. Remember, visa regulations can change, so always verify information with the Thai embassy or consulate before your trip. By carefully considering your travel plans and eligibility criteria, you can confidently select the appropriate visa to make your Thailand experience seamless and enjoyable.

FAQ.

FAQ. Part 2