A Complete Guide to Thailand Visa For Indians

Thailand stands as a shining gem among the sought-after destinations in Southeast Asia, attracting a multitude of travellers with its captivating blend of attractions. From its pristine islands to its vibrant nightlife, the country boasts a diverse range of natural wonders that cater to the desires of every visitor. The heart of this enchanting realm, Bangkok, pulses with modernity and urban vibrancy, providing a striking contrast to the idyllic shores of Phuket and the lively nightlife of Pattaya. And of course, no conversation about Thailand would be complete without a mention of its exquisite culinary offerings, a tantalising journey for your taste buds.

For countless individuals, Thailand represents the canvas for a dream vacation, offering an array of experiences to indulge in. Yet, before you set foot in this captivating land, it’s essential to navigate its visa regulations and the application process. This comprehensive guide aims to explain the intricacies of Thailand’s visa system, exploring the specifics of various visa types.

We’ll outline the detailed requirements for each category, elucidate the permissible duration of stay, and shed light on the financial aspects, particularly focusing on the cost of Thailand visa for Indian citizens. So, without any further delay, let’s dive in:

Visa Free Entry For Indian Tourists from November 10, 2023, to May 10, 2024

You can now enjoy a visa-free trip to Thailand from November 10, 2023, to May 10, 2024. In a move to boost tourism post-pandemic, Thai tourism authorities have welcomed a significant move: opening visa-free entry for Indian and Taiwanese tourists. During this period, tourists are allowed a stay of up to 30 days per entry. This timely initiative coincides with the start of the peak tourist season, which runs from November to March.

Thailand, a tropical paradise in Southeast Asia, attracts millions of tourists annually with its pristine beaches, ethereal natural landscapes, vibrant nightlife, and the warm hospitality of its people. It’s no surprise that Thailand is a top destination on many travellers’ bucket lists. If you’ve been dreaming of the perfect Thai vacation, now is the time to turn that dream into reality. Book a Thailand tour package today and enjoy a visa-free journey. However, please note that you must carry the following documents:

• A valid passport (6 months validity)
• A return ticket
• Hotel booking/accommodation address proof.
• Minimum amount of cash which is THB 10,000 per person and THB 20,000 per family.

You may be asked to produce the above documents at both the check in counter and immigration counter.

After May 10, 2024 the regular visa charges may apply until further notice. To learn about regular visas on arrival for Indian Nationals. Please read below:

What are the different types of Thailand visas available for Indians?

For Indian travellers considering a visit to Thailand, understanding the available visa options is crucial. These visas are managed by the Royal Thai Embassy/Consulate, ensuring that entry to Thailand is aligned with specific regulations. Here’s an overview of what you need to know:

Indian citizens with valid passports have access to a range of visa categories in Thailand, each catering to different purposes such as tourism, business, work, education, and more. Regarding the application process, there are two primary routes to consider. You can apply for a visa before your departure, giving you ample time to prepare. Alternatively, the Visa on Arrival option allows you to obtain a visa upon arrival in Thailand, granting a stay of up to 15 days. The type of visa available may depend on the nature of your visit and the associated prerequisites.

It’s important to note that certain visas may dictate whether you can apply online or through traditional offline methods. If you are going to Thailand as a tourist, it’s best to apply for an online visa or e-VoA, but more on that later.

Here is a detailed breakdown of the available Thailand visa types:

Tourist Visa for Thailand – Your Gateway to an Incredible Vacation

If you’re looking to explore the enchanting beauty of Thailand and create unforgettable vacation memories, the Thailand Tourist Visa is your key to embark on this journey. This visa is tailor-made for individuals with a zest for tourism and a desire to experience all that Thailand has to offer.

Visa Validity and Stay Duration:

The Thailand Tourist Visa comes in two variants:

Single Entry Scheme: With a validity of three months, you can experience Thailand’s wonders for up to 60 days in a single stay.

Multiple Entry Scheme: If you’re a frequent traveller, this option offers a six-month validity, allowing you to enter and exit Thailand multiple times within this period. Your stay duration per entry remains 60 days.

Document Checklist:

To ensure a smooth application process, make sure you have the following documents in order:

• Duly filled application form with all required details.
• A passport with a minimum of six months validity from your intended date of arrival in Thailand.
• Four recent passport-sized photographs taken within the last three months.
• Confirmed return ticket to India.
• Proof of accommodation, such as a hotel booking.
• Evidence of sufficient funds to cover your expenses during your stay: 20,000 Baht per individual or 40,000 Baht per family.

Process and Fees:

The Tourist Visa application involves these steps:

• Fill out the application form with accurate details.
• Attach the necessary documents.
• Submit the application to the Royal Thai Embassy/Consulate.

For the cost, here’s the breakdown:

• Single Entry: 2500 INR per person.
• Multiple Entry: 12000 INR per person.

Remember, each document you submit should adhere to certain specifications, like the photograph size of 3.5 x 4.5 cm against a white background (with clothing in a colour distinct from the background). Also, ensure that all submitted documents are valid for at least six months.

Transit Visa for Thailand – Seamless Layovers Exploring the Kingdom

For travellers with layovers in Thailand en route to another destination, the Thailand Transit Visa offers an excellent opportunity to make the most of your brief stay in the Kingdom. This visa is tailored for those who want to explore a slice of Thailand’s charm during their transit.

Eligibility and Required Documents:

If you’re planning a layover in Thailand and wish to explore the country within a limited timeframe, the Transit Visa is your go-to option. Here’s what you’ll need to present to obtain it:

• A minimum of two recent photographs taken within the last three months.
• A sum of Thailand’s currency equivalent to or exceeding 20,000 Baht.
• Photo specifications: 3.5 x 4.5 cm.
• Proof of your onward travel, typically in the form of a flight ticket, to a third destination via Thailand.
• Valid visa or any other travel documents for the third country.

Visa Validity and Stay Duration:

The Thailand Transit Visa offers a validity of up to three months. Within this period, you can take advantage of a stay duration of 30 days. To ensure a smooth process, it’s recommended that you submit your visa application at least 15 days prior to your intended travel date.

Extending Your Stay:

If you find yourself wanting more time to explore the Thai landscapes and culture, you have the option to extend your Transit Visa. Upon your arrival, you can apply for an extension at Thai immigration, which usually ranges from seven to ten days, depending on your country of origin.

Visa Fee:

The cost for the Thailand Transit Visa is INR 1900/- per person.

Thailand Work/Employment Visa – Your Gateway to Working and Investing

If you’re looking to work or do business in Thailand, the Thailand Employment Visa is your ticket to making your professional dreams come true. The Thailand Work/Employment Visa is a pathway to contributing your skills or investments to Thailand’s landscape. With proper documentation and adherence to regulations, this visa opens avenues to professional growth and opportunities in the Kingdom. This visa category encompasses two variants: Non-immigrant (B) and Non-immigrant (IB). Let’s dive into the specifics:

Non-immigrant (B) Visa:

For those aiming to work legally in Thailand within a corporate or any other institution, the Non-immigrant (B) visa is the route to take.

Non-immigrant (IB) Visa:

On the other hand, if you’re inclined to invest in specific projects sanctioned by the Board of Investment of Thailand (BOI), the Non-immigrant (IB) visa opens doors to endeavours like export promotion.

Essential Documents:

To secure a Thai Employment Visa, you’ll need to gather the following documents:

• A passport with a validity of at least three months.
• Two recent passport-sized photographs (3.5 cm x 4.5 cm).
• A job offer from a prospective employer in Thailand.
• A Ministry of Labour approval letter. Your employer must submit Form WP3 to the Office of Foreign Workers Administration, Ministry of
• Labour, or a Provincial Employment Office.
• An employment contract outlining work details, salary, and date of joining.
• Educational records and letters of recommendation from previous employers if required.

Visa Validity and Stay Duration:

The duration depends on the specific visa type:

• Non-immigrant (IB) visa holders are granted a three-month validity.
• Non-immigrant (B) single-entry visa holders have a three-month validity, while multiple-entry visas range from three months up to a year.

Initial Stay and Extensions:

Upon entry, employment visa holders are initially granted a 90-day stay. Extensions up to a year are possible based on the guidelines set by the Office of Immigration Bureau.

Visa Fee:

The fee for the Work/Employment Visa is INR 5000/- per person for a single entry.

Thailand Retirement Visa: To Spend Golden Years in the Land of Smiles

The Thailand Retirement Visa presents an inviting opportunity for retirees to embrace the charm, warmth, and culture of Thailand while savouring the golden years. Whether you’re seeking a year of reflection or a decade of adventure, these visas pave the way to a fulfilling retirement experience. The Thailand Retirement Visa caters specifically to individuals aged 50 and above, offering an opportunity to bask in the country’s charm during this new chapter of life. Let’s delve into the details:

Visa Type	Description
Non-Immigrant O-A Visa	Granted to retirees aiming to spend their retirement years in Thailand. Offers a one-year stay with the possibility of extension for an additional year.
Non-Immigrant O-X Visa	Available to citizens of selected countries such as Japan, Denmark, Australia, and more. The Non-Immigrant O-X visa provides a long-term option spanning an impressive 10 years. It is exclusively open to retirees from specific nations who fulfil the eligibility criteria

Documents Required for Retirement Visas:

Essential Documents	Non-Immigrant O-A Visa	Non-Immigrant O-X Visa
Passport Validity	Minimum 6 months	Minimum 6 months
Photographs	4 recent passport-size photographs taken within the last 3 months, in 3.5 cm x 4.5 cm (against a white background)	4 recent passport-sized photographs in 3.5 cm x 4.5 cm. (against a white background)
Financial Proof	Bank statement showing funds or deposits of at least 800,000 Baht – Income certificate with monthly earnings not less than 65,000 Baht.	Bank statement indicating funds or deposits of at least 3 Million Baht
Criminal Record	Certificate issued within the last three months	Certificate issued within the last three months
Medical Certificate	Certificate issued within the last three months	Certificate issued within the last three months
Health Check	N/A	Medical certificate indicating a clean bill of health, covering conditions like Covid-19, Leprosy, Tuberculosis, Elephantiasis, etc.
Health Insurance	N/A	Thai health insurance coverage: not less than 40,000 Baht for outpatient services and 400,000 Baht for inpatient services.

Visa Validity and Stay Duration:

• Non-Immigrant O-A: Valid for one year with the option of extending for another year.
• Non-Immigrant O-X: A long-term solution, offering a five-year stay, with the possibility of a five-year extension after the initial period.

Visa Fee:

For single entry, the fee is INR 5,000/-, and for multiple entries, it’s INR 12,000/-

Study Visa for Thailand – Pursue Your Education in the Land of Diversity

For countless international students, Thailand’s renowned schools and universities serve as a gateway to exceptional learning experiences. Thailand Study Visa opens doors to a world of diverse learning opportunities, allowing you to immerse yourself in Thailand’s rich culture while pursuing your academic ambitions. With the right documentation and a thirst for knowledge, your educational journey in Thailand awaits. If you’re a student with dreams of exploring educational opportunities in Thailand, securing a Thailand Study Visa (Non-immigrant ED) is your essential step forward.

Required Documents:

To embark on your educational journey in Thailand, make sure you have the following documents in order:

• Passport with a validity of at least six months.
• 4 to 8 recent passport-sized photographs against a white background, taken within the last 3 months, sized 3.4 cm x 4.5 cm.
• Confirmation letter from the school or university, validating your admission.
• Registration certificate issued by the school or university.
• Approval letter from the relevant authority under the Ministry of Education.

Visa Validity and Stay Duration:

A study visa in Thailand offers a single-entry validity of three months. While your course of study may span a year, your initial visa is granted for 90 days. Before the expiration of your visa, you can extend it through the Thailand Immigration Department, ensuring continuity throughout your educational pursuit.

Study Visa Fee:

The fee for a single-entry Study Visa is INR 5,000/-

Non-immigrant F Visa – For Official Work

Foreign nationals with ordinary passports, engaged in official duties for embassies, government agencies, or international organisations, can avail the Non-immigrant F Visa.

Required Documents:

To apply for a Non-immigrant F Visa, ensure you have the following documents ready:

Passport valid for at least six months.

Four to eight recent passport-size photographs (taken within the last 3 months).
Official letter from the relevant agency outlining the purpose of your visit.

Visa Validity and Stay Duration:

The Non-immigrant F Visa offers a single-entry validity of three months. The permissible stay duration in Thailand is 90 days unless otherwise instructed by the Office of Immigration Bureau.

Visa Fee for Non-immigrant F Visa:

• INR 5,000/- for Single Entry.
• INR 12,000/- for 6 Months or 1 Year

Non-immigrant O Visa – For Visiting Family in Thailand

The Non-immigrant O Visa caters to individuals who intend to stay with their Thai family members. This visa is available for non-Thai individuals whose family members hold permanent residency in Thailand.

Eligible Conditions:

You can apply for a Non-immigrant O Visa under the following circumstances:

• Spouse of a Thai national.
• Adopted child of a Thai national.
• Children under 20 years of age with Thai nationality.
• Parents of a Thai national if the child becomes a citizen of Thailand.

Required Documents:

For a Non-immigrant O Visa application, prepare the following documents:

• Passport with a minimum validity of six months.
• Proof of financial capability or sponsorship.
• Four to eight recent passport-sized photographs (taken within the last 3 months).
• Evidence of your relationship with your Thai family member.

Visa Validity and Stay Duration:

A single-entry Non-immigrant O Visa is granted with a three-month validity. During this period, you can stay in Thailand for up to 90 days.

Visa Fee:

The visa fee for Non-immigrant O is INR 5000/- (single entry)

Thailand Marriage Visa – Union and Unity in the Land of Smiles

For those uniting in matrimony with a Thai citizen and seeking to reside in the Kingdom of Thailand, the Marriage Visa is your gateway to marital and domestic bliss. This visa category encompasses a unique journey, subject to an application process and a non-refundable visa fee.

Essential Documents:

To embark on your marital journey in Thailand, ensure you have the following documents ready:

• Completed application form.
• Valid passport.
• Confirmed return ticket.
• Proof of sufficient funds.
• Original Thai marriage certificate.
• Copy of your spouse’s Thai ID.
• A cover letter explaining your intent.
• Proof of employment.
• Additional documents as required based on individual circumstances.

Visa Validity and Stay Duration:

The Marriage Visa offers varying validity based on entry type:

• Single-entry: Three months validity.
• Multiple-entry: Six months or one year validity.

Stay Duration:

The period of stay with a Marriage Visa is up to 90 days, unless otherwise instructed by the Immigration Bureau.

Visa Application Fee:

• Single-entry: INR 5000/-
• Multiple-entry: INR INR 12000/-

How to apply for a Thailand Visa for Indians?

Indian travellers have multiple avenues to secure a Thailand visa, each catering to different travel needs and durations. Here’s a breakdown of the available options to choose from:

E-Visa on Arrival:

• For a seamless entry, consider applying for an e-visa on arrival to Thailand.
• This option is particularly suitable for travellers with short stays.

Ensure your travel purpose aligns with the e-visa criteria, typically focused on tourism.

Visa on Arrival (VOA) at Designated Entry Points:

• If you prefer an in-person approach, you can opt for a visa on arrival.
• This process involves completing an arrival card, submitting required documents, and paying the visa fee in cash.

Ideal for those arriving at specific entry points and planning a shorter visit.

Royal Thai Embassy/Consulate Application:

• For longer stays or specific travel purposes, visiting the Royal Thai Embassy or consulate might be more suitable.
• Collect the application form, complete it, and provide the necessary documents in person.

This approach allows for direct interaction with consular staff, ensuring comprehensive guidance.

Choosing the Right Kind of Visa for Your Thailand Trip:

Selecting where to apply for your Thailand visa hinges on your travel purpose and duration:

• For tourism stays and shorter visits, the e-visa on arrival could be the most convenient.
• If your journey extends beyond 60 days or requires a specific type of visa, visiting the Royal Thai Embassy or consulate provides tailored solutions.

Ultimately, the choice is yours, driven by your travel goals, schedule, and preferences. Whichever route you take, ensure your documents are in order and align with the specific visa requirements.

Applying for Thailand’s e-Visa on Arrival (eVOA) for Indians

To enhance the entry experience for foreign nationals, the Thai Government introduced the electronic visa system in 2018. This e-Visa on Arrival (eVOA) option expedites your arrival process when entering Thailand. Here’s a simple guide on how Indian citizens can apply for the Thailand eVOA through the VFS Thailand online website:

Access the VFS Thailand Website:

Head to the VFS Thailand online website, the platform facilitating the eVOA application for Indian travellers.

Gather Required Documents:

Ensure you have all necessary documents on hand before starting the application process.

Complete the Online Application Form:

• Fill in the online application form on the VFS Thailand website.
• Provide accurate and up-to-date information as required.

Submit and Pay:

• After completing the form, submit it through the website.
• Pay the relevant visa fee using the specified payment methods.

Wait for Processing:

• Upon submission, your application enters the processing phase.
• Await confirmation on the status of your application.

Receive Approved Confirmation:

Once approved, you will receive an approved confirmation of your e-VOA application in PDF format via email.

Prepare for Travel:

• Prior to your departure, ensure you have a printed copy of the approved e-VOA application and all required documents.
• Airport Arrival:

Arrive at one of the designated airports eligible for eVOA usage:

• Suvarnabhumi International Airport
• Don Mueang International Airport
• Chiang Mai International Airport
• Phuket International Airport

Immigration Process:

• Present your printed e-VOA application, along with required documents and your passport, to the immigration officer at the airport.
• Your entry visa will be stamped onto your passport.

By following these steps, you can seamlessly secure your Thailand e-Visa on Arrival, allowing you to breeze through the entry process and begin your exploration of the vibrant and captivating Kingdom of Thailand.

Step-by-Step Guide: Applying for a Thailand eVisa as an Indian National

Obtaining a Thailand eVisa is a hassle-free process, with the entire application conducted online. Follow these steps to secure your eVisa without the need to visit an embassy or consulate:

Access the Online Application Form: Navigate to the official Thailand eVisa application portal.

Provide Basic Personal Details: Fill in your full name, home address, contact number, and email address.

Specify Nationality and Passport Information: Enter your nationality, passport number, expiration date, and issuance date.

Indicate Travel Details: Clearly state your travel purpose, expected date of entry and exit from Thailand.

Accommodation Information: Furnish evidence of your accommodation arrangements in Thailand, reinforcing your travel plans.

Health and Security Inquiries: Address routine health and security questions related to your trip, ensuring transparency in your application.

Review and Verify: Carefully review the information you’ve provided to ensure accuracy and completeness.

Submit Your Application: Once satisfied, submit your eVisa application for evaluation.

Await Approval: Allow processing time for your application to be reviewed and approved.

Receive Approval Notification: Upon approval, you will receive notification through email, indicating the success of your eVisa application.

Print and Carry Documents: Print a copy of the approval confirmation, as well as any required documents, to present upon your arrival in Thailand.

By following these steps, you can conveniently and confidently apply for your Thailand eVisa as an Indian national, ensuring a smooth and efficient entry process to explore the captivating wonders of Thailand.

Essential Documents for Online E-Visa on Arrival Application

By ensuring you meet these document requirements and conditions, you can confidently proceed with your E-Visa on Arrival application, ready to embark on your journey to Thailand. When applying for the E-Visa on Arrival (E-VOA), ensure you have the following documents ready for a seamless application process:

Passport Documents:

• Passport cover page (Accepted format: .jpg, file size not exceeding 1024 KB)
• Passport bio page (Accepted format: .jpg, file size not exceeding 1024 KB)

Airline Tickets:

Departure and return airline tickets (Accepted format: .pdf, file size not exceeding 1024 KB)

Accommodation Details:

Full trip of accommodation details (Accepted format: .pdf, file size not exceeding 1024 KB)

Photograph

• Passport-sized photograph (4×6 cm) (Accepted format: .jpg, file size not exceeding 1024 KB)
• Additional Documents (If Required):
• Depending on your specific circumstances, you might need to provide additional documents during the application process. For example, birth certificates for minors might be necessary.

Document Validity and Requirements:

Ensure the following conditions are met for a successful E-VOA application:

• The pre-approved E-VOA is valid only for the arrival date mentioned in the application form.
• The purpose of your visit must be for a short stay/travel in Thailand, lasting no more than 15 days.
• Your passport should remain valid for at least 30 days from the date of your arrival, with at least two pages available for the visa stamp.
• You must be a citizen of one of the 17 nationalities eligible for the E-VOA facility, as outlined by the Immigration Bureau of Thailand.
• Your confirmed round-trip air ticket should reflect a stay of no more than 15 days.
• The address of your accommodation in Thailand must be verifiable.
• You should possess adequate means to support your stay in Thailand (minimum of 10,000 THB per person or 20,000 Baht per family).

Online Fee Payment for E-Visa: Streamlined and Secure

Completing your E-Visa on Arrival application involves a fee payment step, which can be conveniently executed through the payment gateway. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to pay your E-Visa fees securely online:

Required Information and Documents:

Ensure you have all the necessary information and documents ready as per the application requirements.

Payment Options:

Use the payment gateway to settle the fees.
Accepted payment methods include MasterCard, Visa card, Union Pay credit/debit card,

International Transactions and 3D Secure System:

Ensure your card is enabled for international transactions.
Your card should also be equipped with a “3D Secure System” for enhanced security.

Visa Fee Breakdown:

For a Visitor Visa under the E-Visa on Arrival (E-VOA) category, the fee structure consists of the following components:

• Regular Visa fee: 2000 THB
• Regular Service fee: 500 THB

Express-Visa Service Option:

If you require expedited processing, an express service is available at an additional cost. This service provides you with a decision within 24 hours, ideal for urgent travel plans.

• Express Visa fee: 2000 THB
• Express Service fee: 2500 THB

Downloading Your E-VOA Receipt:

• If your fee payment is successful and your application is approved with a pre-approved E-VOA code, a .pdf file containing your decision will be generated.
• Download and print this E-VOA receipt for your reference and keep a digital copy on your mobile device.

By adhering to these steps, you can securely finalise your E-Visa fee payment online, ensuring a smooth and efficient process as you prepare to explore the captivating wonders of Thailand.

Processing Time for Thailand eVisa for Indian Citizens

When applying for a Thailand eVisa as an Indian citizen, you can expect a streamlined processing timeline. Here’s what you need to know about the processing duration:

Standard Processing Time: Generally, your Thailand eVisa application is processed within 3 business days. In fact, most applications are processed within a swift 24-hour timeframe.

Consider Busy Travel Periods: However, it’s important to note that during peak travel seasons or periods of high application volume, processing times might be slightly longer. To ensure a stress-free experience, it’s advisable to allow a buffer and consider at least 5 business days for processing.

Notification of Approval: Once your eVisa application is approved, you will receive an email notification. The approval will be sent as an attachment to the email address you provided during the application process.

Printing Your eVisa: It’s crucial to print a copy of your approved Thailand eVisa. This printed copy will be presented to border officials upon your arrival in Thailand, facilitating a smooth entry process.

Stay Updated: To keep tabs on the status of your eVisa application, you can visit thailandevoa.vfsevisa.com where you can conveniently track your eVisa progress.