Thailand Visa: Requirements and How to Apply

Thailand, a country known for its stunning natural beauty, rich culture, and modern city life, is one of the most popular travel destinations in the world. From white-sand beaches and ancient temples to lively night markets, Thailand offers something for every traveler.

With Trip.com, you’ll get helpful information on the visa requirements for entering Thailand and tips to make your travel smooth and hassle-free — from entry regulations and travel documents to useful reminders before your departure. Let Trip.com guide you every step of the way.

Do You Need a Visa to Visit Thailand?

Indonesian passport holders can travel to many countries around the world, each with its own visa requirements. They can visit 79 countries or territories without needing to apply for a visa in advance—and Thailand is one of them. There’s even better news: starting June 1, 2024, the Thai government extended the visa-free stay for tourists from Indonesia and 93 other countries from 30 days to 60 days. However, beginning May 1, 2025, all foreign travelers, including Indonesians, must complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) online at least 3 days before arrival.

New List of Visa-Free Countries for Indonesia

This is the list of countries that offer visa-free policies for Indonesian passport holders:

Thailand Entry Requirements

This is important information regarding the requirements that must be fulfilled before traveling to Thailand.

We will discuss the need for a valid passport, the requirement of a return ticket, proof of accommodation, the importance of carrying sufficient cash, and the necessity of having adequate travel insurance.

1. Holding a passport that is valid for at least 6 months from the date of arrival.
   Make sure your passport is valid for a sufficient period before traveling to Thailand. A passport that is close to expiration may be rejected by immigration authorities.
   
2. Providing proof of a return ticket that shows your departure date from Thailand.
   Thai immigration requires proof that you have plans to leave the country after your stay ends. Ensure you have a valid return ticket that aligns with your travel plans.
   
3. Having proof of accommodation in Thailand, such as a hotel booking confirmation or an invitation letter from a host.
   You must show that you have a legitimate place to stay during your time in Thailand. This could be a hotel booking confirmation or an invitation letter from a friend or family member residing in Thailand.
   
4. Carrying a minimum amount of cash as required by Thai immigration, or having access to sufficient funds to support your stay in Thailand.
   Immigration officers may ask you to show financial proof that you can support your stay. This may include cash, credit cards, or traveler’s cheques.
5. Some countries also require passport holders to have travel insurance that covers medical treatment and evacuation.
   
   Although this is not a common requirement, certain countries mandate that travelers have travel insurance that includes medical coverage and evacuation. Make sure to check whether travel insurance is needed before traveling to Thailand.
   

Types of Thailand Visas

Here are some common types of Thailand visas:

1. Tourist Visa: The Thailand tourist visa is usually granted to travelers who want to visit Thailand for vacation, recreation, or short visits. This visa has a limited stay period, typically between 15 to 60 days depending on the applicant’s country of origin.
2. Non-Immigrant Visa: The Thailand non-immigrant visa is issued to those who intend to stay in Thailand for non-immigration purposes such as work, study, or investment. This visa comes in various categories, including business visa, education visa, work visa, retirement visa, and others. Each category has different requirements and application procedures.
3. Elite Visa: The Elite visa is a special visa program offered by the Thai Government for those who want to stay in Thailand for an extended period. The program offers several packages with different benefits, such as long-term visas, access to exclusive facilities, and priority services.
4. Transit Visa: The Thailand transit visa is granted to those passing through Thailand on their way to their final destination. This visa allows the holder to stay in Thailand for a short period, usually no more than 30 days.
5. Diplomatic and Consular Visa: This visa is issued to diplomats, government officials, or embassy or consulate staff who will be working in Thailand.

Important Preparations Before Traveling to Thailand

How to Apply for an Thailand Visa

(Source: Official Thailand eVisa Website)

1. Determine the Type of Visa You Need

Before applying, identify the visa that best suits your purpose of travel. The most common types include:

• Tourist Visa (TR)
• Business Visa (Non-Immigrant B)
• Education Visa (Non-Immigrant ED)
• Retirement Visa (Non-Immigrant O-A)
• Family-Related Visa
• Permanent Resident Visa
• Special Visas (Elite Visa)
  

Each visa has specific eligibility criteria and required documentation, so it's essential to choose the right one.

2. Prepare the Required Documents

Each visa type has its own set of required documents. Here’s a general list of what you might need:

General Documents for Most Visas:

• Completed Visa Application Form
• Valid Passport (at least 6 months validity)
• Passport-sized Photos (usually 2 photos)
• Visa Fee (check the specific amount for the visa type)
• Proof of Travel (e.g., flight ticket)
• Accommodation Proof (hotel booking or invitation letter)
  

Additional Documents for Specific Visas:

3. Submit Your Application

Apply at a Thai Embassy or Consulate

• Visit the Thai embassy or consulate in your home country or where you legally reside.
• Submit the completed visa application form along with the required documents and visa fee.
  

Apply Online (If Available)

• Some visa categories may allow you to apply online through the Thai embassy's or consulate’s official website.
• Online applications typically require uploading scanned documents and paying the visa fee online.
  

4. Pay the Visa Fee

The visa fee varies depending on the visa type and the embassy or consulate processing the application. You can pay the fee by:

• Cash (in person at the embassy or consulate)
• Bank Transfer (some embassies or consulates)
• Credit or Debit Card (for online applications)
  

Ensure that you have the correct fee amount, as visa applications can be rejected if the payment is incorrect.

5. Wait for Processing

Processing Time

• The processing time for a Thailand visa typically ranges from 2 to 10 business days, depending on the type of visa and the embassy’s workload.
• Some visas may require additional processing time, especially if documents need verification or further information is required.
  

6. Attend an Interview (If Required)

Some applicants, particularly those applying for non-tourist visas like the business or work visa, may be required to attend an interview at the Thai embassy or consulate. During the interview, you may be asked about your travel plans, employment status, or financial situation.

7. Receive Your Visa

Once your application is approved, you will be notified to collect your visa or it will be mailed to you. Depending on the embassy, you can either:

• Pick up your visa in person at the embassy or consulate.
• Receive your visa by mail (if you opted for postal delivery).

How Much Does an Thailand Visa Cost?

How Long Does It Take to Apply for an Thailand Visa?

The processing time for a Thailand visa varies depending on the type of visa being applied for. Below are the typical processing times for common visa types:

Information about International Airports in Thailand

Currently, Thailand has several major international airports, including:

• Suvarnabhumi International Airport: Located in Bangkok, this is the busiest and largest airport in Thailand.
• Don Mueang International Airport: Also located in Bangkok, this is the second-largest airport in Thailand and is primarily used by low-cost airlines and for domestic flights.
• Chiang Mai International Airport: Located in Chiang Mai in northern Thailand, this airport is an important tourist destination and offers both domestic and international flights.
• Phuket International Airport: Situated on Phuket Island in southern Thailand, this airport is the main gateway for tourists visiting Phuket and offers domestic and international flights.
• Hat Yai International Airport: Located in the city of Hat Yai in southern Thailand, this airport is the primary international airport in the southern region and provides both domestic and international flights.
  

In addition to the airports listed above, Thailand also has several smaller international airports such as Krabi International Airport and Samui International Airport. These airports facilitate easier access for travelers entering and leaving Thailand and connect with various destinations within the country.