Can I get a visa on arrival in Thailand?

Thailand offers visa exemption (not visa on arrival) for many countries. True visa on arrival exists only for certain countries like China and India, costs 2,000 baht, and gives 15 days.

What if I overstay my visa?

Overstay fine is 500 baht per day, maximum 20,000 baht. Overstays over 90 days result in entry bans. Pay the fine when leaving at the airport or border.

Can I work on a tourist visa?

No. Tourist visas prohibit any paid work in Thailand. You need a work permit and appropriate visa type for employment.

Do I need proof of accommodation?

It's not always required but some consulates ask for it. A hotel booking for your first few nights is usually sufficient - it doesn't need to cover your entire stay.

How to Get a Tourist Visa for Thailand

Most travelers get a 30-day visa exemption on arrival, but if you need longer or are from certain countries, apply for a 60-day tourist visa at a Thai consulate before travel. The process takes 3-5 business days and costs $40.

Check if you need a visa. Citizens of 64 countries get 30 days visa-free (45 days if arriving by air from select countries). Check the Thai embassy website for your country's specific rules. If you want to stay longer than 30 days or are from a country not on the exemption list, you need a tourist visa.
Gather required documents. You need: valid passport with 6+ months validity and 2 blank pages, completed visa application form, 2 passport photos (2x2 inches), proof of onward travel within 60 days, bank statement showing $700+ balance from the last 3 months, and visa fee payment.
Submit your application. Apply in person at a Thai consulate or embassy in your home country or country of residence. Some locations accept mail applications. Submit all documents and pay the $40 fee (varies by location). Do not book flights until you have your visa.
Wait for processing. Standard processing takes 3-5 business days. Some consulates offer same-day or next-day service for an extra fee. You cannot expedite the process beyond what the consulate offers.
Collect your visa. Pick up your passport with the visa sticker. Double-check all details are correct before leaving the consulate. The tourist visa gives you 60 days from your entry date, not from the visa issue date.

Can I get a visa on arrival in Thailand?: Thailand offers visa exemption (not visa on arrival) for many countries. True visa on arrival exists only for certain countries like China and India, costs 2,000 baht, and gives 15 days.
What if I overstay my visa?: Overstay fine is 500 baht per day, maximum 20,000 baht. Overstays over 90 days result in entry bans. Pay the fine when leaving at the airport or border.
Can I work on a tourist visa?: No. Tourist visas prohibit any paid work in Thailand. You need a work permit and appropriate visa type for employment.
Do I need proof of accommodation?: It's not always required but some consulates ask for it. A hotel booking for your first few nights is usually sufficient - it doesn't need to cover your entire stay.