Can I apply for a visa on arrival in Thailand?

No, Thailand doesn't offer visa on arrival for tourists. You get either visa exemption (free 30 days) or need to apply beforehand. Some countries can get a 15-day visa on arrival but it's more restrictive.

What if my visa application gets rejected?

Rejections are rare but happen if documents are incomplete or you can't prove sufficient funds. You can reapply with better documentation. The fee isn't refunded. Common issues are old bank statements or missing return flights.

Can I extend my tourist visa in Thailand?

Yes, once for 30 days at any immigration office. It costs 1,900 baht and takes 1-2 hours. Bring your passport, copies of passport pages, one passport photo, and the extension form (available at immigration).

Do I need proof of onward travel?

Officially yes, but enforcement varies. Airlines are more likely to check than Thai immigration. A flight out of Thailand within your visa period is safest - can be to any country, not necessarily home.

How to Get a Tourist Visa for Thailand

Most travelers get a 30-day visa exemption on arrival, but you can apply for a 60-day tourist visa beforehand through Thai consulates or the new eVisa system. Processing takes 3-5 business days and costs around $40.

Check if you need a visa. Citizens of 64 countries get 30 days visa-free (45 days if arriving by air until March 2024). Check the Thai embassy website for your country. If you want longer than 30 days or are from a country not on the exemption list, you need a tourist visa.
Choose your application method. Apply online through the eVisa system (available in most countries) or in person at a Thai consulate. eVisa is faster and you avoid embassy visits. Some countries still require in-person applications.
Gather required documents. You need: passport valid 6+ months, recent passport photo, flight itinerary, bank statement showing $700+ (requirements vary by consulate), accommodation booking for first few nights, and completed application form.
Submit your application. For eVisa: upload documents online and pay by card. For consulate: visit during application hours with documents and cash payment. Some consulates require appointments booked in advance.
Wait for processing. eVisa: 3-5 business days. Consulate: 3-5 business days, sometimes next day service for extra fee. You'll get an email confirmation or need to collect in person.
Print your visa. For eVisa, print the approval and bring it when traveling. For consulate visas, it's stamped in your passport. Keep a digital copy as backup.

Can I apply for a visa on arrival in Thailand?: No, Thailand doesn't offer visa on arrival for tourists. You get either visa exemption (free 30 days) or need to apply beforehand. Some countries can get a 15-day visa on arrival but it's more restrictive.
What if my visa application gets rejected?: Rejections are rare but happen if documents are incomplete or you can't prove sufficient funds. You can reapply with better documentation. The fee isn't refunded. Common issues are old bank statements or missing return flights.
Can I extend my tourist visa in Thailand?: Yes, once for 30 days at any immigration office. It costs 1,900 baht and takes 1-2 hours. Bring your passport, copies of passport pages, one passport photo, and the extension form (available at immigration).
Do I need proof of onward travel?: Officially yes, but enforcement varies. Airlines are more likely to check than Thai immigration. A flight out of Thailand within your visa period is safest - can be to any country, not necessarily home.