International travel is always a little confusing. Thailand’s visa rules are no exception since they often change. The rules are constantly changing so please refer to the Immigration Bureau of Thailand for the most accurate information or to your Royal Thai Embassy in your home country.
Thailand visa requirements
One of the first questions people ask before traveling to Thailand is, “Do I need a visa?” Depending on what country you’re from, there are three options:
- Receive a free visa waiver or visa-exempt stamp when you enter Thailand through an international airport or a border crossing. This is good for 30 days. Most citizens of North and South America and western European countries are eligible for this waiver.
- Apply for a Visa On Arrival for 2,000 THB just before you officially enter Thailand. This can be done at the immigration offices stationed at Thailand’s international airports or at border crossings. You can choose between a 15- or 30-day Visa On Arrival.
- Apply for a Tourist Visa at the Royal Thai Embassy or Consulate-General in your home country before your travels begin. It gives you a 60-day visit. This is true for many African and Middle Eastern countries.
Don’t overstay your visa!
If you plan to stay longer than your original visa waiver or visa, you can apply for a visa extension at any Provincial Immigration Office. This will give you an extra 30 days for a price of 1,900 baht.
Don’t risk getting caught with an expired visa. If you try to leave Thailand through an international airport or a border crossing with an expired visa, you will be fined 500 baht per day. However, if you are found in the country with an expired visa, you can be arrested and taken to an Immigration Detention Center.
What goods are prohibited or restricted from entering Thailand?
You are allowed to enter Thailand with items that are worth up to 10,000 baht if:
- the items are intended for your own personal or professional use
- the quantity of items is a reasonable amount for yourself
- the items are not restricted or prohibited in Thailand
NOTE: Customs allows up to 200 cigarettes or 250 tobacco items along with 1 liter of alcohol. Motor vehicles and car parts are not counted as personal effects.
For more information, please visit the following official Thai websites:
