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-visa 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 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 single-entry and multiple-entry Thailand e-visas are available.
Who is Eligible for Thailand E-Visa?
To know if you are eligible for Thailand e-visa, you need to login to the official website for 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.
Documents Required for Thailand E-Visa
- 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 is likely to take higher processing time than a handful of working/business days.
Validity
This visa holds 3 months validity counting right from its issuance. 60 days is the utmost stay period in Thailand.
Thailand E-Visa FAQs
How long does Thailand visa take from Dubai?
The processing time for 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.
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.
Is it possible to extend 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.
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.
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.
How much is a visa from Dubai to Thailand?
The Thailand e-visa cost from Dubai is AED 450.
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. 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.