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 Indian Tourists 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.
Thailand Visa-Free Scheme for Indian Tourists: Comprehensive Guide
Visa on Arrival (VoA)
Post-Exemption Scheme
(Indian Tourists don’t need VISA on Arrival as Thailand is Visa Free for the Indians)
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. Read More
Tourist Visa for Extended Stays
For stays longer than the periods allowed by the VISA Exemption or VoA (60 Days+ Extension), 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:
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. Read More
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.
Thailand Trip Cost from India: A Comprehensive Guide to Save Money and Avoid Scam
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. Read More
ETA Thailand
ETA stands for Electronic Travel Authorization. It is an online travel approval system that allows travelers to enter a country without obtaining a traditional visa. For countries that implement ETA, travelers need to complete an online form and get approval before arriving at their destination.
Thailand to Introduce Mandatory Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) for Indian Tourists by 2025
ETA and Its Impact on Visa-Free Travel for Indians to Thailand
In the context of Thailand, ETA is not currently required for visa-free travel for Indian citizens as of 2025. The visa-free entry policy introduced in late 2024 simplifies entry for Indian passport holders, allowing them to stay in Thailand for up to 60 days without any prior application, including ETA. Read More
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:
- 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).
- 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.
- 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.
- Processing Time:
- The processing time for a visa extension is usually 1-3 working days.
- 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. know 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. To
