A Thailand Tourist Visa allows foreign nationals to visit Thailand for tourism, generally for up to 60 days, and is designed for short-term stays. Depending on nationality, travelers can enter under the visa exemption scheme or apply for a tourist visa in advance. The visa can often be extended for an additional 30 days, making it possible to stay up to 90 days. Understanding the different types of visas, requirements, and the application process is crucial for anyone planning an extended visit to Thailand.
1. Types of Thailand Tourist Visas
Thailand offers different visa types based on the length of stay and number of entries. The Single Entry and Multiple Entry tourist visas are the most common, but the country also provides a Special Tourist Visa (STV) for extended stays under specific circumstances.
a) Single Entry Tourist Visa
The Single Entry Tourist Visa allows visitors to stay in Thailand for 60 days. Once the traveler leaves Thailand, the visa expires, and they must reapply for a new one if they wish to return. However, travelers can extend their stay by 30 days by visiting an Immigration Office within Thailand.
b) Multiple Entry Tourist Visa
This visa allows for multiple entries over a six-month period, with each entry allowing a stay of up to 60 days. This type of visa is ideal for frequent visitors or travelers exploring neighboring countries and returning to Thailand multiple times. Extensions of up to 30 days per entry are also possible.
c) Visa Exemption Scheme
Citizens of 64 countries can enter Thailand without a visa under the Visa Exemption Scheme for stays of 30 days (when entering by air) or 15-30 days (when entering by land). The Visa Exemption can be extended for an additional 30 days at the Immigration Office.
d) Special Tourist Visa (STV)
The Special Tourist Visa (STV) was introduced in response to COVID-19, allowing for an initial stay of 90 days, with the option to extend the visa twice for a total stay of 270 days. This visa is tailored for long-term tourists willing to undergo stricter travel protocols, such as health insurance and quarantine requirements.
2. Application Process
The application process for a Thailand Tourist Visa depends on where the traveler is applying. Those requiring a visa must visit a Thai Embassy or Consulate in their home country or a country where they are legally residing. The following documents are generally required:
- Valid Passport: Must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry.
- Completed Visa Application Form.
- Passport-sized photographs.
- Proof of funds: Applicants must show proof of adequate financial support during their stay (around THB 20,000 per person).
- Confirmed flight itinerary: A return or onward travel ticket.
- Proof of accommodation: Hotel reservations or an invitation letter from a Thai resident.
Processing times may vary depending on the embassy or consulate, but the typical timeline is 3 to 5 business days.
3. Extension of Stay
Tourists wishing to extend their stay beyond the initial visa period can apply for an extension at a Thai Immigration Office. The extension process requires:
- Form TM.7: Completed application form.
- Passport: With a valid tourist visa.
- Photographs: Standard passport-sized photo.
- Extension Fee: Currently THB 1,900.
Applicants can extend their visa by 30 days, providing an additional month to explore Thailand.
4. Overstay Penalties
Overstaying a tourist visa in Thailand incurs penalties. Fines of THB 500 per day apply, up to a maximum of THB 20,000. Overstaying for an extended period can result in a ban from re-entry for several years. For example:
- Overstay of 90 days or more can result in a 1-year ban.
- Overstay of 5 years or more can lead to a 10-year ban.
Travelers are advised to adhere strictly to their visa terms and avoid overstaying to avoid fines and restrictions.
5. Re-entry and Multiple Entry Visas
Travelers holding a Multiple Entry Visa can leave Thailand and return without the visa expiring, provided the re-entry occurs before the visa’s expiration. For single-entry visa holders wishing to leave and re-enter Thailand, a re-entry permit must be obtained before departure, ensuring the visa remains valid upon return.
6. COVID-19 Travel Requirements
Thailand introduced additional travel measures in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, which remain in place for some categories of travelers. Tourists may be required to:
- Provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination.
- Undergo PCR testing before departure and after arrival.
- Complete a mandatory quarantine period at government-designated facilities for non-vaccinated travelers.
Additionally, travelers should have health insurance covering COVID-19 treatment, with a minimum coverage of USD 100,000.
Conclusion
Thailand offers a variety of tourist visa options that cater to different needs, ranging from short visits to long-term stays. While the Single Entry Visa is ideal for one-off trips, the Multiple Entry Visa and Special Tourist Visa (STV) allow more flexibility for long-term travelers and repeat visitors. Understanding the visa application process, eligibility criteria, and potential extensions ensures a hassle-free experience when visiting Thailand.
