Thailand is a beautiful country. Its tropical weather and rich culture act as natural magnets for those who dwell on the far side of the world. A big chunk of Thailand’s revenues is obtained from the tourism industry, making her the tourism hub of the far-east. What if you live in a different country and would want to have a vacation in Thailand? For sure, it won’t be as easy as going for a walk in a park, roam around, and get off the place after. There are guidelines to be followed and documents to be prepared before you board the plane bound for the “land of smiles”.

Visiting Thailand as Tourist

When you visit Thailand for the purpose of leisure, sightseeing, and personal enlightenment, you are a tourist. A tourist is not allowed to work or conduct business in Thailand. A tourist needs a tourist visa so he/she can stay in Thailand for a period of more than 30 days while doing his/her own explorations and excursions in the kingdom. Due to COVID 19 pandemic, most foreigners are now required to obtain a tourist visa from the Thai Embassy or Consulate.

What is a Thailand Tourist Visa?

A Thailand tourist visa is a stamp or document needed so you can stay in Thailand for a specific period of time, for the purpose of tourism. It is issued by a Thai embassy or consulate in your country and stamped on your passport upon arrival at the airport in Thailand. The tourist visa can also be extended if necessary. The tourist visa should not be confused with the visa exemption stamp issued at the airport.

There are certain countries that made agreements with the government of Thailand so their citizens can benefit from the visa exemption when entering Thailand as tourists. These tourists are allowed to stay in Thailand for 45 days to 90 days without the need to apply for a tourist visa from the Thai Embassy.

Requirements of a Tourist Visa to Thailand

When applying for a tourist visa, certain documents and fees are needed to obtain one. The documents and the fee are subject to change anytime and without prior notice, so it would be a good idea for an aspiring Thai tourist to inquire for the right information before flying off to Thailand.UPDATE: Some embassies will reject your visa application and certificate of entry or COE application if you do not have the correct format for the Health Insurance. 

Documents required:

• Passport or travel document with a validity not less than 6 months
• Visa application form (filled out)
• One(1) recent 4x6cm. photograph of the applicant
• Round-trip air ticket or e-ticket (paid in full)
• Proof of financial means (20,000 baht per person/40,000 baht per family)
• Proof of Hotel or private accommodation

Don’t forget that consular officers reserve the right to request additional documents when they deemed it necessary, so it is advisable that you present yourself when you are in good shape and state, together with your papers and documents.

Visa Fee:

• US $ 30.00 per entry or equivalent. The tourist visa fee is subject to change without prior notice, so it is a good idea to be updated by visiting the nearest Thai Embassy or consulate in your area.

Update: Due to the COVID 19 pandemic the issuance of the tourist visa can be made online, by mail, or in-person depending on the current regulation of the Thai Embassy in your country.

Application for COE

Aside from the Tourist Visa, a traveler must apply for a COE or certificate of entry from the local Thai Embassy or Consulate. To apply for the COE, please register online by filling in your personal details, and upload supporting documents such as a copy of your passport, a copy of the valid visa, and COVID-19 travel insurance. The Embassy will screen and pre-approve the applicants who meet the requirements. The second step of the COE application involves uploading the flight information and the quarantine hotel reservation. You must apply for the COE at least 5 to 15 days prior to your flight to Thailand.