Applying for a Thai Tourist Visa
Most travelers qualify for a 60-day visa exemption or a 60-day tourist visa. You apply for the e-Visa online through the official Thai government portal at least 15 days before your flight, uploading your passport, flight itinerary, and proof of accommodation.
- Check your eligibility. Visit the official Thai e-Visa website (thaievisa.go.th) and enter your nationality and travel purpose. This confirms if you need a visa or if you fall under the visa exemption program.
- Create an account. Register on the e-Visa portal using your email address. You will need to verify your account via email before you can start the application.
- Prepare your documents. Scan your passport data page, a recent passport-sized photo, proof of your inbound/outbound flights, and a hotel booking confirmation for at least the first night. All files must be in PDF or JPG format.
- Submit and pay. Upload your documents, answer the security questions, and pay the visa fee (usually around $40 USD) via credit card. Save your payment receipt and application reference number.
- Wait for approval. Processing typically takes 5–10 business days. Once approved, you will receive your e-Visa via email. Print a copy to carry with your passport.
- Can I extend my visa once I am in Thailand?
- Yes, you can visit a local Thai Immigration Office to apply for a 30-day extension for a fee of 1,900 THB.
- What if my e-Visa is denied?
- The embassy will usually state the reason in the portal. You can re-apply once you have corrected the missing or incorrect documents.