Thailand is a popular tourist destination that attracts millions of tourists from around the world every year. India is a significant contributor to the number of tourists visiting Thailand. Indians visiting Thailand for business or tourism purposes need to obtain a Thailand visa for Indians before their trip.
In this guide, we unravel the intricacies of obtaining a Thailand visa, covering various types, application procedures, fees, and essential details for a seamless travel experience.
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Do Indians need visa for Thailand?
Yes, Indian citizens need a Thailand visa for Indians to visit the country. For short-term stays, the Thailand visa requirements for Indians include the option of a visa on arrival, valid for up to 15 days. This can be obtained at designated entry points in Thailand with a valid passport, proof of onward travel, and sufficient funds.
For longer visits, a Thai visa for Indians, such as a tourist visa, is necessary and generally valid for up to 60 days. For extended stays or specific purposes like business or study, different visa types must be applied for in advance.
Thailand visa requirements for Indian citizens
To be eligible for a Thailand visa for Indians, you must meet the following criteria:
- Purpose of travel: Your visit must be for tourism purposes.
- Valid passport: Your passport should be valid for at least 1 month from the date of your entry into Thailand and should have a minimum of 2 blank pages available for visa stamps.
- Ticket: You must have a confirmed return or onward ticket for your journey.
- Travel insurance: It is mandatory to have valid international travel insurance when applying for a Thailand tourist visa.
- Proof of funds: You must provide proof that you have sufficient funds for your trip, which includes at least 10,000 Thai Baht per person or 20,000 Thai Baht per family.
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Essential information for applying for a Thailand visa
Planning a trip to Thailand? Understanding the visa process is essential for a smooth journey. A Thailand visa for Indians can be obtained through different options, depending on the purpose and duration of the visit. Indian travellers can apply for a tourist visa in advance from the Royal Thai Embassy or Consulate. This visa typically allows a stay of up to 60 days. Alternatively, a visa on arrival is available for short trips of up to 15 days.
To apply, you need a valid passport, recent photographs, confirmed travel tickets, proof of accommodation, and sufficient financial funds. The visa on arrival requires a visa fee and completed application form at the immigration checkpoint. For hassle-free travel, ensure all documents are accurate and up to date. Checking the latest visa policies before travelling is always recommended. A well-prepared visa application can make your Thailand trip enjoyable and stress-free.
Thailand visa procedure for Indians
Thailand visa procedure for Indians involves a simple application process. From gathering required documents to completing the application and paying fees, follow this step-by-step guide to ensure a smooth experience for obtaining your Thailand visa.
- Choose the right type of visa: Determine the purpose of your visit and select the appropriate visa type.
- Check eligibility: Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria for the chosen visa category.
- Complete the application form: Fill out the visa application form accurately, providing all required information.
- Gather required documents: Collect essential documents, including passport, photographs, travel itinerary, and proof of accommodation.
- Submit the application: Submit your visa application either online (for e-Visa) or at the designated visa application centre.
- Pay visa fees: Pay the applicable visa fees through authorized payment channels.
- Track application status: Stay informed about your application status by using the tracking system provided by the Thai authorities.
How to apply for a Thailand visa?
Applying for a Thailand visa for Indians is simple if you follow the right steps. Here’s how you can apply:
- Choose the visa type – Depending on your travel purpose, apply for a tourist, business, or other visa category.
- Gather required documents – A valid passport, visa application form, recent photographs, confirmed flight tickets, hotel bookings, and proof of sufficient funds.
- Apply through the embassy/consulate – Submit your application at the Royal Thai Embassy or Consulate in India with the necessary documents and visa fee.
- Opt for visa on arrival (if eligible) – Indian travellers visiting for up to 15 days can apply for a visa on arrival at designated Thai airports.
- Receive your visa – Once processed, your visa will be stamped or sent by email if applied online.
Ensure all details are correct for a hassle-free approval process.
Types of Thailand visa for Indians
Thailand offers various visa types for Indian travellers, depending on the purpose and duration of the visit. Below are the main categories of visas available:
1. Thailand tourist visa
A Thailand tourist visa is ideal for Indian travellers visiting the country for leisure, sightseeing, or short-term recreational activities.
- Documents required for Thailand tourist visa
Applicants must submit a valid passport (with at least six months validity), a completed visa application form, passport-sized photographs, proof of accommodation, confirmed return flight tickets, financial proof (such as bank statements), and a visa fee receipt. - Thailand tourist visa validity
The tourist visa is typically valid for three to six months, depending on whether it is a single-entry or multiple-entry visa. - Stay duration of Thailand tourist visa
Indian tourists can stay for up to 60 days per visit. - Extension of Thailand tourist visa
The visa can be extended for an additional 30 days at a Thai immigration office by paying an extension fee.
2. Thailand transit visa
This visa is for travellers who need to pass through Thailand to reach another country.
- Documents required for Thailand transit visa
Required documents include a passport with at least six months validity, visa application form, recent photographs, confirmed flight tickets, proof of onward travel, and supporting documents for the final destination. - Thailand transit visa validity
The transit visa is generally valid for three months. - Stay duration of Thailand transit visa
Holders can stay for up to 30 days per entry. - Extension of Thailand transit visa
Extensions are not usually granted for transit visas, except under special circumstances.
3. Thailand employment or business visa
This visa is for individuals planning to work or conduct business in Thailand.
- Documents required for Thailand employment or business visa
Applicants must provide a passport, application form, passport-sized photographs, job offer or business invitation letter, work permit approval (if applicable), and financial proof. - Thailand employment or business visa validity
The visa is initially valid for 90 days and can be extended. - Stay duration of Thailand employment or business visa
The visa allows a stay of up to 90 days, with multiple-entry options for business travellers. - Extension of Thailand employment or business visa
Visa holders can apply for an extension or convert the visa to a long-term work permit through Thai immigration.
4. Thailand long-stay visa
This visa is designed for retirees, expats, and long-term visitors.
- Documents required for Thailand long-stay visa
Applicants need a passport, visa application form, photographs, proof of financial stability, and medical insurance. - Thailand long-stay visa validity
The visa is usually valid for one year, with the possibility of renewal. - Stay duration of Thailand long-stay visa
It allows a stay of up to one year per entry. - Extension of Thailand long-stay visa
Extensions can be obtained annually upon meeting the financial and residency requirements.
5. Thailand smart visa
This visa is aimed at highly skilled professionals, investors, and entrepreneurs in targeted industries.
- Documents required for Thailand smart visa
Required documents include a valid passport, visa application form, employment contract or business registration, proof of expertise, and financial documents. - Thailand smart visa validity
The smart visa is valid for up to four years. - Stay duration of Thailand smart visa
The duration varies based on the applicant's category but can be up to four years. - Extension of Thailand smart visa
Smart visa holders can apply for extensions based on continued eligibility and compliance with Thai immigration laws.
6. Thailand non-immigrant ED visa
This visa is issued to students and researchers attending educational institutions in Thailand.
- Documents required for Thailand non-immigrant ED visa
Applicants need a valid passport, acceptance letter from a recognised institution, completed visa application form, photographs, and financial proof. - Thailand non-immigrant ED visa validity
The visa is typically valid for 90 days, extendable upon enrolment confirmation. - Stay duration of Thailand non-immigrant ED visa
Holders can stay for the duration of their academic programme. - Extension of Thailand non-immigrant ED visa
Extensions can be obtained based on academic progress and institution approval.
7. Thailand non-immigrant F visa
This visa is issued to individuals working in diplomatic, government, or official organisations in Thailand.
- Documents required for Thailand non-immigrant F visa
Applicants must provide a passport, official invitation letter, visa application form, and supporting government or diplomatic documents. - Thailand non-immigrant F visa validity
The visa is valid for 90 days initially. - Stay duration of Thailand non-immigrant F visa
The permitted stay depends on the assignment duration. - Extension of Thailand non-immigrant F visa
Extensions can be granted based on the assignment length and official approval.
8. Thailand non-immigrant O visa
This visa is meant for individuals joining family members in Thailand or engaging in volunteer work.
- Documents required for Thailand non-immigrant O visa
Required documents include a passport, visa application form, proof of relationship (if applying for a family visa), and supporting sponsorship or volunteering documents. - Thailand non-immigrant O visa validity
The visa is initially valid for 90 days. - Stay duration of Thailand non-immigrant O visa
The duration depends on the purpose of stay but usually ranges from 90 days to one year. - Extension of Thailand non-immigrant O visa
Extensions are possible with the relevant supporting documents.
Each visa type has specific eligibility requirements and application procedures. Indian travellers should carefully review the latest visa policies and ensure they meet all conditions before applying.
Features of Thai visa for Indians
Following are the key features of the Thai visa for Indians you should be aware of:
1. Multiple visa types
The Thai visa for Indians includes various types such as tourist, business, education, and work visas, catering to different purposes of travel.
2. Tourist visa duration
A tourist visa typically allows a stay of up to 60 days, with the option to extend for an additional 30 days.
3. Application process
The process for obtaining a Thai visa for Indians involves submitting a completed visa application form, a valid passport, passport-sized photographs, and proof of travel arrangements.
4. Additional documentation
Depending on the visa type, additional documents may be required. For example, a business visa may need an invitation letter from a Thai company.
5. Visa fee
The visa fee varies depending on the type and duration of the visa applied for.
6. Processing time
Typically, it takes about 3-5 working days for processing, but it's advisable to apply well in advance.
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Duration of different types of Thailand visas for Indians
Following are the durations of each visa type that caters to specific purposes, ensuring compliance with Thai visa requirements for Indians:
Visa type |
Duration |
Description |
Tourist visa |
Up to 60 days (extendable by 30 days) |
Allows Indians to stay in Thailand for tourism purposes. Extension possible. |
Business visa |
Up to 90 days |
Issued for business activities. Can be extended based on business requirements. |
Education visa |
Up to 1 year |
For students enrolled in educational institutions. Renewable annually. |
Work visa |
Up to 1 year |
For individuals employed by a Thai company. Renewable based on employment. |
Transit visa |
Up to 30 days |
For travellers passing through Thailand to another destination. |
Who should apply for a Thailand visa?
Indian nationals planning to travel to Thailand for tourism, business, or other purposes will generally need to apply for a Thai visa for Indians. This includes those intending to visit for short stays, as well as individuals travelling multiple times within a short period. In such cases, applying for a multiple-entry visa is advisable. This allows travellers to enter and exit Thailand multiple times without needing to reapply for a visa each time. Understanding the right visa type will ensure a smooth travel experience.
Thailand visa fee for Indians
To apply for Thailand visa it is important for an Indian citizen to know about the application fee for their preferred type of visa. Below is the list of different types of Thailand visas and their fees for Indian citizens.
Type of visa |
Fee |
Validity |
Visa on arrival |
2,000 TBH |
Stay permitted for 15 days |
Transit visa |
Rs.1,900 |
3 months |
Tourist visa (single entry) |
Rs. 2500 |
3 months| Valid for 60 days from the date of issuance |
Tourist visa (multiple entry) |
Rs.12,500 |
6 Months | allowing multiple entries with each stay up to 60 days |
Non-immigrant visa (single entry) |
Rs.4,000 |
Visa valid for 3 Months | Permitted to stay for a period not exceeding 90 Days |
Non-immigrant visa (multiple entry) |
Rs.10,000 |
Visa valid for 6 Months or 1 Year | Each permitted to stay for a period not exceeding 90 Days |
Non-immigrant visa ED (education) |
Rs.5,000 |
Valid for the duration of the course, typically up to 90 days initially, extendable as needed |
Non-immigrant B visa (business) |
Rs.5,000 |
Valid for 90 days initially, extendable up to 1 year based on requirements |
Non-immigrant O-A visa (retirement) |
Rs.12,500 |
Valid for 1 year, renewable annually under certain conditions| Permitted to stay for a period not exceeding 90 Days (each entry) |
How to track Thailand visa applications for Indians?
The tracking system for Thailand visa applications allows Indian travellers to monitor the status of their applications. Utilise the application reference number provided during the submission process to check for updates and ensure a transparent and efficient processing experience..
Factors you must know when applying for a Thailand visa
Here are some factors to keep in mind when applying for a Thailand visa for Indians before travelling.
1. Check visa requirements
Depending on the purpose and length of your visit, you may need a tourist, business or education visa. Make sure you check the requirements beforehand.
2. Timing is important
Visa processing times can vary, so it's important to apply well in advance of your planned travel date. The Thai embassy or consulate in your country will have information on processing times.
3. Required documentation
Ensure you have all the necessary documents ready for your application, which may include passport photos, passport copies, flight tickets, hotel bookings, and financial proof.
4. Application fees
Visa fees also vary depending on the type and duration of the visa. Be sure to check the fees and payment options.
By keeping these factors to acquire Thailand visa for Indians in mind, you can ensure a smooth visa application process and enjoy your trip to Thailand without any hassle.How to apply for a visa to Thailand
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