Planning a trip to Thailand? One of the first things you are going to need to determine is how you will be obtaining your Thailand visa. These consist mainly of the Visa on Arrival (VoA) and the E-Visa. But which is the right one for you? Let’s explore both options, what they involve, and which Thailand visa requirement will smoothen your travels.
Key Differences Between Thailand Visa on Arrival and E-Visa
Visa on Arrival: An Overview
Thailand Visa on Arrival is the easiest and the most convenient way of entering Thailand for many travelers. Applicable for international travelers, this visa permits eligible passport holders to receive a visa on arrival at certain international airports or land borders in Thailand.
Intended for short-term tourists, the Visa on Arrival offers a straightforward method for entering the country without first obtaining approval from a Thai consulate or embassy.
Information on Thailand Visa on Arrival
The Thailand visa on arrival is available for citizens of 31 eligible countries. Note this list is constantly changing, so always check official Thai immigration resources before you travel. Travelers are required to show a passport valid for at least six months, an arrival card, proof of hotel or lodging in Thailand, proof of a flight back or forward, and proof of enough funds.
The Visa on Arrival fee of 2,000 Thai Baht (This is an approximate amount and may change), which has to be paid only in Thai Currency at the immigration checkpoint. A Visa on Arrival is limited to a stay of 15 days, and this period cannot be extended. This means travelers who want to extend their stay in Thailand will have to leave the country before returning with a new visa or organize a different kind of visa before they arrive.
E-Visa: An Overview
With the advancement of technology, Thailand has implemented the Thailand e-visa, making it possible for travelers to apply for their visas online prior to arrival. It allows for the process to be done without needing to go to a Thai embassy or consulate, which is more accessible and easier to access from any country in the world.
Who is the Thai E-Visa for? Ideal for travelers who would like to skip long lines at the airport and those looking to have their travel documents approved prior to departure. This is particularly advantageous for travelers who are going to stay longer as the E-Visa grants a stay in Thailand for a period of up to 60 days, which can be extended by another 30 days in Thailand.
In contrast to Visa on Arrival, E-Visa is available for citizens of all countries that maintain diplomatic relations with Thailand. This expansion makes it a viable option for many tourists, especially for those who want a hassle-free entry experience.
Information on Thailand E-Visa
The Thailand E-Visa is a digital visa that travelers can apply for through the official Thai immigration website. This process includes creating an online account, filling out the visa application form, uploading the documents required, and paying the visa fee online.
Applicants Typically Need to Submit:
- A valid passport (with at least six months of validity)
- A recent passport-sized photograph
- Proof of accommodation in Thailand
- A return or onward flight ticket
- Additional documents depending on the visa type (such as an invitation letter for business visas)
For travelers with flexibility in their itinerary, the E-Visa holds one of its key advantages: it provides an entry option via the majority of Thailand’s international airports and border checkpoints. And also, you can apply for an E-Visa in several forms as: single-entry Thailand visa or multiple-entry Thailand visa.
A major benefit of the Thailand E-Visa is its 60-day validity, with an option to extend for an additional 30 days if needed. This makes it more favorable for travelers because they can visit Thailand for a longer duration without leaving and applying for a new visa.
FAQs
1. Can I apply for a Thailand E-Visa if I’m already in Thailand?
No, You must apply for the Thailand E-Visa before entering the country. If you’re already in the country and need to extend a Multiple Entry Thailand Visa, you’ll need to go to a local immigration office instead to learn about types of Thailand tourist visa.
2. Does the Visa on Arrival allow re-entry into Thailand?
No, Thailand tourist visa is single entry Thailand visa. If you leave Thailand and want to come back, you’ll have to get a new visa when you return.
3. How long does it take to process a Thailand E-Visa?
The Thailand E-Visa takes around 3 to 10 working days to process. It is best to apply at least two weeks before your trip.
Conclusion
The Thailand Visa on Arrival and Thailand E-Visa are two convenient options for travelers visiting the country. Each operates separately with its own process and benefits. The Visa on Arrival is ideal for short-term tourists who want quick entry without applying in advance. The E-Visa ensures a smoother entry process by granting approval before your arrival. It also allows for a longer stay than the Visa on Arrival.