Comprehensive Thailand Visa Guide for Indian Tourists

Thailand, known for its vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality, is a favorite destination for Indian travelers. Understanding the visa requirements is essential for a smooth and enjoyable trip. Here’s a detailed guide on the various visa options, including the new visa exemption scheme for Indian tourists.

Thailand VISA Types for Indian Tourists

Visa-Free Entry for Indians to Thailand

To encourage tourism, the Royal Thai Government has introduced a visa exemption scheme for Indian passport holders. Here are the updates and enhancements to the scheme:

Previous Initiatives and Enhancements:

November 2023: The initial visa exemption scheme was introduced, allowing 30-day stays, extendable to 60 days. This initiative saw a remarkable increase in the number of Indian tourists.

May 2024: Thailand extended the scheme to 10th November 2024, maintaining the initial stay duration.

July 2024: In response to positive feedback and growing demand, Thailand has on 15th July (2024) extended the visa-free stay to 60 days for the Indian tourists, further extendable to 90 days.

Present Status of Visa Free Entry to Thailand for Indians

November 2024: Thailand has extended its visa-free entry scheme for Indian travelers indefinitely, allowing stays of up to 60 days, extendable to 90 days. This move removes the previous deadline of 10th November 2024 Source: ​Hindustan Times

Eligibility and Requirements:

• Purpose: The visit must be for tourism purposes only.
• Duration: The stay should not exceed 60 days, with the possibility to extend up to 90 days.
• Travel Documents:
  • Passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry.
  • At least two blank pages in the passport.
  • Confirmed onward or return ticket indicating departure from Thailand within 60 days.
• Accommodation: Proof of confirmed accommodation bookings.
• Funds: Evidence of sufficient funds to cover the stay ( Rs 23,240 or 10,000 THB per person or Rs 46,480 or 20,000 THB per family).

Note: This exemption is only valid for tourism purposes. For other purposes, different visa types are required.

Visa on Arrival (VoA)

Post-Exemption Scheme (After 10 November 2024)

If traveling after the visa exemption scheme ends, Indian tourists can apply for a Visa on Arrival (VoA), allowing a stay of up to 15 days.

Requirements for Visa on Arrival:

• Travel Documents:
  • Passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry.
  • At least two blank pages in the passport.
  • Recent passport-sized photograph (4 x 6 cm) taken within the last six months.
• Accommodation: Verifiable address in Thailand (hotel booking or apartment).
• Travel Plans: Confirmed return ticket showing departure within 15 days.
• Funds: Proof of at least Rs 23,240 or 10,000 THB per person or Rs 46,480 or 20,000 THB per family.
• Visa Form: Completed Visa on Arrival form (TM88). Download TM88 Form
• Fee: 2,000 THB (~INR 4,700), payable in cash upon entry.

Application Process:

• Upon arrival, proceed to the Visa on Arrival counters.
• Submit the required documents and pay the visa fee.
• Ensure all documents are prepared in advance for a smooth process.

E-Visa on Arrival (E-VOA)

Indian citizens can also apply for an E-Visa on Arrival (E-VOA) online before traveling, simplifying the entry process.

Requirements for E-VOA:

• Documents:
  • Passport with at least 30 days validity from the arrival date.
  • Passport cover page and bio page.
  • Departure and return airline tickets.
  • Full trip accommodation details.
  • Recent photograph (4 x 6 cm).
• Funds: Proof of Rs 23,240 or 10,000 THB per person or Rs 46,480 or 20,000 THB per family.
• Fees:
  • Regular Visa Fee: 2,000 THB (~INR 4,700).
  • Regular Service Fee: 500 THB (~INR 1,175).
  • Express Service Fee: 2,500 THB (~INR 5,875).

Application Steps:

1. Register on the Thailand’s official E-VOA website.
2. Provide the required details and upload necessary documents.
3. Pay the visa fee online.
4. Download and print the E-VOA receipt.

Update

Temporary Suspension of E-Visa on Arrival Services for Indian Travelers

Thailand E-Visa on Arrival services for Indian travelers are temporarily suspended. Indian citizens can visit Thailand without a visa until November 2024

At the Airport:

• Follow the E-VOA lane at the immigration area.
• Present the passport and E-VOA receipt to the officer for final approval.

Tourist Visa for Extended Stays

For stays longer than the periods allowed by the VISA Exemption or VoA, a Tourist Visa must be obtained from a Thai Embassy or Consulate.

Types of Tourist Visas:

• Single Entry Visa: Valid for 3 months, allows a stay of up to 60 days.
• Multiple Entry Visa: Valid for 6 months to 1 year, allows multiple entries with stays of up to 60 days per entry.

Update on Thailand Tourist VISA:

Till 10th, November 2024, Indians don’t need Thailand Single Entry Tourist VISA. They are entitled to enter Thailand visa free and stay there upto 60 days which can be extended to 90 days.

Requirements for Tourist Visa:

• Documents:
  • Valid passport with at least 6 months validity and two blank pages.
  • Completed visa application form.
  • Two recent passport-sized photographs (3.5 x 4.5 cm).
  • Proof of residence in India (if non-Indian passport holder).
  • Confirmed return ticket.
  • Detailed itinerary.
  • Proof of accommodation.
  • Bank statement showing sufficient funds (minimum balance of USD 700 per person or USD 1400 per family).

Application Process:

• Submit the required documents to the Thai Embassy or Consulate.
• Pay the visa fee of INR 2,500 for a single entry.
• Processing time is typically 3-4 working days.

Thailand and India Bilateral Agreement

Under the bilateral agreement, Indian nationals holding Diplomatic or Official passports can enter Thailand visa-free for up to 90 days for leisure, business, or official duties.

Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) for Indian Digital Nomads

Thailand has introduced the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) targeting remote workers and digital nomads from India with a five-year multiple-entry option.

Key Features of the DTV

• Visa Duration and Entries: Five-year stay with multiple entries. Holders can stay for up to 180 days per year, extendable for an additional 180 days.
• Cost: 10,000 THB.
• Eligibility:
  • Applicants must be at least 20 years old.
  • Minimum bank balance of 500,000 THB.
  • Proof of employment with a registered company.

Benefits of the DTV

• Lower Income Requirements and Fees: Affordable compared to similar visas in Southeast Asia.
• Legal Remote Work: Work legally for international clients.
• Family Inclusion: Spouse and children under 20 can join.
• Tax Benefits: No tax on foreign income during the stay.

Limitations of the DTV

• Employment Restrictions: Does not permit employment with Thai companies.
• Visa Type Changes: Changing visa types terminates the DTV.

Application Process for the DTV

• Requirements:
  • General: Passport or travel document, passport photograph, proof of current location, financial evidence (minimum balance of 500,000 THB).
  • Category-Specific: Employment contract, proof of attendance for Thai Soft Power activities, proof of relationship for dependents.
• Application Methods:
  • Embassy or Consulate: Visit with necessary documents.
  • Online: Apply through the Thai e-Visa portal.
  • Professional Assistance: Siam Legal offers expert help.

Indian nomads and remote workers will benefit from the DTV by enjoying extended stays in Thailand with the ability to legally work for international clients, low-income requirements, and no tax on foreign income, providing an ideal environment for work-life balance.

Free Medical Coverage for Foreign Tourists

Additional Information:

• Final Entry Decision: The final decision on entry rests with Thai immigration officers at the point of entry.
• Non-Refundable Fees: Visa application fees are non-refundable.
• Document Authenticity: Ensure all documents are genuine and correctly filled out to avoid delays or refusals.

Note: Always check the latest travel advisories and visa regulations before planning your trip to ensure compliance with current requirements.

Thailand Visa Extension Application for the Indian Travelers

For Indian tourists wishing to extend their stay in Thailand beyond the initial visa exemption or Visa on Arrival period, a visa extension application is necessary.

How to Apply for a Visa Extension

Eligibility:

• Extensions are available for tourists on a visa exemption (30 days) or Visa on Arrival (15 days).

Where to Apply:

• Applications must be submitted to the nearest Immigration Office in Thailand.

Application Process:

1. Prepare Required Documents:
   • Completed extension application form (TM7).
   • Passport with at least 6 months validity and a valid visa.
   • Recent passport-sized photograph (4 x 6 cm).
   • Evidence of accommodation (hotel booking or rental agreement).
   • Proof of sufficient funds (10,000 THB per person or 20,000 THB per family).
2. Visit the Immigration Office:
   • Locate the nearest immigration office, which can be found in major cities and tourist areas.
   • Submit the application form and required documents.
3. Pay the Extension Fee:
   • The fee for a visa extension is typically around 1,900 THB (~INR 4,450).
   • Payment must be made in cash.
4. Processing Time:
   • The processing time for a visa extension is usually 1-3 working days.
5. Receive Your Extended Visa:
   • Once approved, your passport will be stamped with the new stay duration.

Important Notes:

• It is advisable to apply for an extension at least a week before your current visa expires to avoid overstaying.
• Overstaying can lead to fines and potential bans on re-entering Thailand.

Extending your stay in Thailand is a straightforward process, provided you have the necessary documents and apply on time. By following these guidelines, Indian tourists can enjoy a longer visit to explore the rich culture and stunning beauty of Thailand.

Free Medical Coverage for Indian Tourists in Thailand

Thailand offers comprehensive medical coverage for Indian tourists through the Thailand Traveller Safety Scheme. Funded with 50 million Baht, this initiative provides up to 1 million Baht for death, 300,000 Baht for permanent disability, and 500,000 Baht for medical expenses due to accidents, all at no cost to tourists. Eligible travelers must hold valid passports and visit between January 1 and August 31, 2024. Registration is easy via the Thailand Traveller Safety (TTS) system, ensuring peace of mind and safety throughout their stay. read more

Thailand’s welcoming visa policies for Indian tourists aim to make travel easier and more enjoyable. Whether you are visiting for a short holiday under the visa exemption scheme, using the Visa on Arrival facility, or planning an extended stay with a tourist visa, understanding the requirements and processes will help ensure a smooth and memorable trip to the Land of Smiles.