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.
What is a Thailand visa?
A Thailand visa is an official document or stamp issued by the Thai government allowing foreign nationals, including Indians, to enter and stay in Thailand for a specified period. Thai visa for Indians can be obtained for various purposes, such as tourism, business, education, or employment. Indian travellers typically apply for a tourist visa, which permits a stay of up to 60 days. The application process involves submitting necessary documents, including a valid passport, visa application form, photographs, and proof of travel arrangements. Some categories of Thai visas may require additional documentation or an invitation letter from a Thai sponsor.
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Do Indians need visa for Thailand?
Yes, Indian citizens need a visa to visit Thailand. 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.
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.
What are the different types of Thailand visa for Indians?
Thailand offers various visa options for Indian travellers, each designed for specific purposes. Below are the most common types of Thailand visa for Indians, with a brief description of each:
1. Thailand visa on arrival for Indians
The Thailand Visa on Arrival is ideal for Indian travellers planning a short stay in Thailand, typically up to 15 days. This visa can be obtained at designated entry points in Thailand and is suitable for tourists seeking a brief visit.
2. Tourist visa
A Tourist Visa is the perfect option for Indian citizens who wish to stay in Thailand for longer than 15 days. This visa allows a stay of up to 60 days and can be extended for an additional 30 days, making it suitable for leisurely trips or sightseeing.
3. Transit visa
The Transit Visa is for individuals passing through Thailand on their way to another destination. It is suitable for passengers with a layover of over 12 hours or those involved in specific transport-related work, such as pilots or crew members.
4. Business visa
For Indian nationals travelling to Thailand for business purposes, a Business Visa is necessary. It permits participation in meetings, conferences, or business activities and is typically valid for up to 90 days, with potential extensions.
5. Employment visa
An Employment Visa is required for Indians planning to work in Thailand. This visa is granted to individuals with a valid job offer and allows them to reside and work in Thailand, typically for up to one year, with the possibility of renewal.
6. Studying visa
Indian students intending to study in Thailand can apply for a Studying Visa. This visa is applicable for individuals enrolling in educational institutions, attending short courses, or engaging in other learning-related activities within Thailand.
7. Media and film crew visa
The Media and Film Crew Visa is intended for journalists, filmmakers, or media professionals visiting Thailand for work-related activities. It allows them to produce films, documentaries, or advertisements while in the country.
8. Religious activities visa
This visa is designed for individuals engaging in religious activities or missionary work in Thailand. It requires approval from relevant authorities and is suitable for those planning to carry out faith-based services in the country.
9. Research and science visa
The Research and Science Visa is for Indian citizens conducting scientific research or academic projects in Thailand. It allows for a stay of up to 90 days, which may be extended based on the length of the research or project.
10. Staying with family visa
This visa allows Indian nationals to stay with family members who are either Thai nationals or legal residents of Thailand. It also covers family members of diplomatic officers and officials based in Thailand.
11. Smart visa
The Smart Visa is designed for highly skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, and investors who wish to work or invest in Thailand’s emerging industries. It provides a longer stay period, typically up to four years, and offers multiple entry privileges.
12. Long stay visa
The Long Stay Visa, also known as the Retirement Visa, is ideal for individuals aged 50 or above who wish to live in Thailand for an extended period. It offers a stay of up to one year, with the possibility of annual renewals.
13. Non-immigrant visa
The Non-Immigrant Visa is a broad category that covers various purposes, including education, research, and family visits. It includes different sub-categories, such as the Non-Immigrant O-A, O-X, ED, O, and F visas.
14. Courtesy visa
The Courtesy Visa is granted to individuals invited by the Royal Thai Government for official or diplomatic purposes. It is typically used for those visiting Thailand on an official invitation.
These are the most common Thailand visa for Indians options available for those travelling to Thailand for various purposes.
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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. |
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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Documents required to apply for a Thailand visa for Indians
The documentation process is a critical aspect of obtaining a Thailand visa. Common documents required include:
- Passport: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from the intended date of arrival.
- Passport-sized photographs: Recent photographs adhering to the specified guidelines.
- Travel itinerary: Provide details of your travel plans, including accommodation reservations and flight bookings.
- Proof of funds: Demonstrate financial stability through bank statements or other relevant documents.
- Visa application form: Complete and submit the visa application form with accurate information.
- Travel insurance: It is highly recommended that one must carry international travel insurance while travelling to Thailand from India.
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) |
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 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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