How to Apply for a Thailand Visa on Arrival or E-Visa (Step-by-Step)

First, Check If You Need a Visa

• Visa Exemption: Many nationalities (e.g., USA, UK, EU, Australia, Canada) get a 30-day stamp upon arrival for free if entering by air, or 15 days if entering by land. This is usually sufficient for short holidays.

• Visa on Arrival (VoA): Citizens of 19 countries (including India, China, Russia, Ukraine, Saudi Arabia) can get a 15-day visa upon landing at major Thai international airports.

• E-Visa (Tourist): This is the online pre-approval for a Tourist Visa (TR), typically valid for 60 days. It's available for many nationalities and is highly recommended over VoA if you are eligible, as it saves time at the airport.

This guide focuses on Visa on Arrival and the E-Visa.

Part 1: How to Get a Visa on Arrival (VoA)

This is obtained after you land in Thailand, at designated airports.

Eligible Airports:

You can only get a VoA at these international airports:

• Suvarnabhumi (BKK), Don Mueang (DMK) - Bangkok

• Chiang Mai (CNX) - Chiang Mai

• Phuket (HKT) - Phuket

• Hat Yai (HDY) - Songkhla

• Samui (USM) - Koh Samui

Step-by-Step Process at the Airport:

1. Get Your Documents Ready on the Plane: Fill out the Arrival/Departure Card (TM6) that the flight crew gives you. Keep it safe.

2. Follow the Signs: After disembarking, look for signs that say "Visa on Arrival." Do NOT get in the line for passport control yet.

3. Submit Your Documents at the VoA Desk: Join the queue and present the following to the officer:

   • Passport: Must be valid for at least 30 days from your date of entry.

   • Completed Visa on Arrival Application Form: You can download this online and fill it out beforehand, or get one at the desk.

   • One Passport-Sized Photo: (4x6 cm) taken within the last 6 months.

   • Confirmed Return Flight Ticket: Proof you will leave Thailand within 15 days.

   • Proof of Accommodation: Hotel booking(s) for your entire stay or a letter of invitation.

   • Proof of Funds: Cash equivalent to 10,000 THB per person or 20,000 THB per family. They may ask to see it.

   • Visa Fee: 2,000 Thai Baht (as of 2023-2024). Pay in cash (THB only).

4. Wait for Approval: The officer will process your application and stamp your passport with the 15-day visa.

5. Proceed to Passport Control: Now, go to the regular immigration lines with your newly stamped passport and TM6 card to get your entry stamp.

Part 2: How to Apply for a Thailand E-Visa (Recommended)

This is done online before you travel. It's less stressful and grants a longer stay (60 days).

Step-by-Step Online Application:

1. Go to the Official Website:

   • The only official site is: https://thaievisa.go.th/

   • Create an account using your email.

2. Fill Out the Application Form:

   • Select the Thai embassy/consulate you will collect the visa from (usually in your home country).

   • Fill in all personal, passport, and travel details accurately. This includes your address in Thailand, flight details, and travel history.

3. Upload Required Documents (as Digital Files/Scans):
   This is the most critical part. You will need:

   • Passport Bio Page Scan: A clear scan of your passport's information page. Must be valid for at least 6 months.

   • Passport-Sized Photo: A recent digital photo against a white background.

   • Proof of Travel: A scan of your confirmed round-trip flight ticket.

   • Proof of Accommodation: Scans of your hotel bookings for the entire trip. If staying with a friend, you need a copy of their ID and a signed invitation letter.

   • Proof of Financial Means: Scans of your bank statements for the last 6 months. The requirement is typically 20,000 THB per person (or equivalent) for the E-Visa.

   • Other Documents: You may need a copy of your marriage certificate if applying as a family, or proof of employment.

4. Pay the Visa Fee Online:

   • The fee varies by nationality and embassy (e.g., around $40-80 USD). Pay using a credit/debit card.

5. Wait for Processing & Receive E-Visa:

   • Processing can take from 3 to 15 business days. You will receive notifications by email.

   • Once approved, you will download your E-Visa Approval Letter as a PDF.

6. Travel to Thailand and Present Your E-Visa:

   • Print a copy of your E-Visa Approval Letter.

   • Upon arrival, go directly to the Immigration (Passport Control) counter.

   • Present your passport and the printed E-Visa to the officer. They will stamp your passport with the 60-day entry permit.

Visa on Arrival vs. E-Visa: Quick Comparison

Essential Tips for Both

• Accuracy is Key: Ensure all information on your application matches your passport exactly.

• Print Everything: Always carry printed copies of your E-Visa, flight tickets, and hotel confirmations. Immigration may ask for them.

• Passport Validity: Your passport must have at least 6 months of validity remaining.

• Extension: Both the 30-day visa exemption and the 60-day E-Visa can usually be extended for 30 days at a local Thai immigration office for a fee (~1,900 THB).

In summary: For a short trip from an eligible country, the Visa on Arrival is straightforward. For a longer, hassle-free visit, the E-Visa is the superior choice. Always check the official Thai embassy website for your country for the most current requirements.