Thailand, with its gorgeous beaches, breathtaking islands, vibrant cities, mouthwatering food, and amazing experiences, is a dream holiday destination for people all around the world. However, the thought of applying for a Thailand visa and go through the entire process of waiting for the approval may put you off your Thailand holiday plans. But what if you do not have to go through the lengthy process? Thailand has introduced online visa or e-visas a few years ago. This facility allows citizens of certain countries to apply for a Thailand e-visa online, without visiting the Thailand embassy or consulate. Here is a complete guide about Thailand e-visa for tourists.
What is a Thailand E-Visa?
Thailand e-visa is an online visa that comes with a three months’ validity. Instead of submitting an application form and original documents at the Thailand embassy or consulate, the entire process is done online. You login to the Thailand e-visa portal, check whether you are eligible for an e-visa, fill up an online form, submit the soft copies of all your documents, and pay the visa fee online. If your visa is approved, you will receive your Thailand e-visa in your email. Thailand e-visa is available for tourism and visiting purposes. Both the Single Entry Thailand Visa and Multiple Entry Thailand Visa are available for travelers.
Who is Eligible for Thailand E-Visa?
To know if you are eligible for a Thailand e-visa, you need to login to the official website for a Thai e-visa. You need to put in the details of your citizenship, and the website will tell you whether you can apply for the e-visa or must go for a regular tourist visa through the Thai embassy. If you are from one of the countries mentioned below, you can apply for Thailand e-visa:
- Bhutan
- Bulgaria
- China
- Ethiopia
- Fiji
- Georgia
- India
- Kazakhstan
- Malta
- Mexico
- Nauru
- Papua New Guinea
- Republic of Cyprus
- Romania
- Saudi Arabia
- Taiwan
- Uzbekistan
- Vanuatu
Process of Applying for Thailand E-Visa
Here are the steps you need to follow while applying for Thailand e-visa:
- Create an account on the Thailand e-visa official website.
- Once you register, you will receive a confirmation email. Click on the link to complete the process.
- Enter the purpose of your visit and let the system select the right type of Thailand visa for you.
- The next step is to fill in the application form and provide your personal details like name, address, date of birth, passport number, dates of visiting Thailand, etc.
- Scan and upload the documents mentioned on the website.
- Pay the Thailand visa fee via credit card or internet banking.
You should receive your Thai e-visa in your email account within 3-10 business days, if all your papers are in order.Visitors to Thailand must remember that sometimes, their visa can be rejected. The following are some of the common reasons for Thailand visa rejection, including inconsistent application forms, financial inadequacy, prior immigration infractions, and inadequate documents.
Documents Required for Thailand E-Visa
- A scanned copy of your passport’s biodata page that includes information like name, passport number, address, date of birth, nationality, etc.
- Scanned passport size photograph (in color). It should be a recent photo, not older than six months.
- Copies of bank statements, salary slips, and other proof of earnings to show your financial resources.
- Proof of accommodation in the form of hotel reservations or invitation letters from family or friends in Thailand.
- Copy of confirmed return flight ticket.
Processing Duration
- Typically it takes three to ten business days, but the duration may be longer too. Specific nationals may require 3 months waiting time for approval.
Time to Apply
- Thailand e-visa must be applied 30 days prior traveling as specific applications are likely to take higher processing time than a handful of working/business days.
Validity
- This visa holds 3 months of validity counting right from its issuance. 60 days is the utmost stay period in Thailand.
Conclusion
Applying for a Thailand e-Visa is a quick and easy way to get permission to travel before you get there. When comparing Thailand visa on arrival vs e Visa, the eVisa is a more practical and time-saving choice because it enables travelers to get clearance prior to departure, avoiding lengthy airport lines. To maximize your time in Thailand, plan your vacation well in advance and keep up with any changes to the country’s visa requirements.
Thailand E-Visa FAQs
1. How long does a Thailand visa take from Dubai?
The processing time for a Thai e-visa depends on your nationality. It can take anywhere between 3-10 business days to get this visa from Dubai. Sometimes, it may also take up to 30 days.
2. When should I apply for a Thailand e-visa?
It is best to apply for a Thailand e-visa at least a month before you are planning to visit Thailand. This will help you if there are any delays.
3. Is it possible to extend the Thailand e-visa?
Yes, you can extend the visa for three more months. You need to visit the local Thai immigration office to extend your Thai e-visa.
4. Should I take a printout of the Thailand e-visa?
Yes, you should. When you receive your Thai e-visa in your email, take a printout of the same. You need to produce it at the time if immigration along with your passport while traveling to Thailand.
5. Is Thailand visa free for UAE residents?
UAE residents who are from Thailand visa waiver countries are eligible for Thailand visa on arrival. Others need to apply for a visa beforehand. UAE residents are generally eligible for Thai e-visa.
6. How much is a visa from Dubai to Thailand?
The Thailand e-visa cost from Dubai is AED 450.
7. Can I get a Thai visa on arrival?
Citizens of certain countries who are visiting Thailand for tourism are eligible for Thai visa on arrival. You can check the Thai visa official website to know whether you will get a visa on arrival in Thailand.
Getting a Thailand e-visa is a simple and easy process. You can lawfully prolong your stay in Thailand if you stay longer than is allowed by applying for a Thailand visa extension at an immigration office. But if you are finding it difficult to apply for one on your own, you can consult a visa company that will take care of the entire process for you.
8. Which kinds of visas are available to tourists visiting Thailand?
Depending on your travel goals, Thailand offers various types of Thailand visa alternatives, such as the Tourist Visa, Business Visa, Education Visa, Marriage Visa, and Elite Visa. A popular option for short-term visitors who want a simple online application process is the Thailand e Visa.
9. What are the common reasons cited for Thailand visa rejections?
Incomplete applications, inadequate financial evidence, prior visa infractions, inconsistencies in supplied documentation, and a history of overstaying in Thailand are some of the most common causes. Rejection can be prevented by making sure all documentation is correct and satisfies eligibility requirements.
10. Can I use an e Visa to enter Thailand more than once?
A Thailand e-Visa is often granted as a single-entry visa, which allows you to enter the nation once during its validity period. You might have to apply for a different kind of visa, such as a multiple-entry tourist visa if you require more than one entry.