For travelers who only want to spend a short time in Thailand, the single-entry tourist visa offers a straightforward entry procedure and enough time to experience most of what the country has to offer.

On this page we explain the most important steps for applying for and using the Thai tourist visa for a single entry and also offer alternatives for a longer stay in Thailand.

Do you need a Thai tourist visa to enter Thailand?

Yes, you need a visa to enter Thailand for tourism purposes. However, if you meet the requirements, the Thai visa waiver might be an easier option for entering the country. It allows a stay of up to 60 days with the option to extend for another 30 days, but does not require a prior visa application.

If, however, your nationality does not qualify you for visa exemption and your trip is no longer than 15 days, the Thai visa on arrival might be just what you need. It's important to note, though, that, as with the visa exemption program, you will need a passport from one of the participating countries to enter Thailand with a visa on arrival.

What is a Thai single-entry tourist visa?

The Thai single-entry tourist visa entitles the holder to enter Thailand for tourism, leisure, or medical purposes. Travelers are permitted to stay in Thailand for up to 60 days; a one-time extension of 30 days is subsequently possible at any Thai immigration office.

You must apply for this visa before leaving Thailand. Activities unrelated to tourism, such as paid work, are prohibited. As this is a single-entry visa, this tourist visa expires upon your departure from Thailand, regardless of the remaining length of stay.

How to apply for a single-entry tourist visa to Thailand

Citizens of many countries can apply for a single-entry tourist visa online through Thailand's e-Visa system. However, if you are not eligible, you can submit your application at the nearest Thai embassy or consulate. Regardless of whether you apply in person or online, you will need the following documents:

  • A completed visa application form
  • A passport or travel document valid for at least 6 months and with at least 2 blank pages.
  • Onward or return travel tickets (fully paid)
  • Proof of financial assets such as a bank statement (10,000 THB per person or 20,000 THB per family)
  • Booking confirmation for a hotel or private accommodation

    • It is recommended that you print copies of these documents. Entry approval is at the discretion of immigration officers. Presenting printed copies of these documents will expedite passport control and help reduce congestion at the airport.

    Furthermore, upon your arrival in Thailand, a 60-day stay stamp will be entered in your passport, so that even on the last day of the validity period you can enter and still receive the full 60-day stay permit.

    Long-term visa options for Thailand

    For travelers who wish to stay in Thailand for more than a few months, who frequently enter and leave the Kingdom, or who are planning a semi-permanent stay, Thailand offers a range of long-term visas tailored to different lifestyles and needs.

    Thailand multiple entry tourist visa

    While not a traditional long-term visa, the Thailand multiple-entry visa offers a practical option for travelers planning several visits within a six-month period. It allows unlimited entry and exit to Thailand without requiring a re-entry permit each time. Each visit entitles the holder to a stay of up to 60 days. Travelers who wish to extensively explore Thailand over several months and take side trips to neighboring countries often find the Thailand multiple-entry visa the most convenient and cost-effective solution.

    Thailand Elite Visa

    The Thailand Elite Visa is an exclusive, multiple-entry tourist visa that allows members to stay in Thailand for 5 to 20 years. It consists of four different membership packages and is designed for travelers who value a premium experience. Benefits include expedited entry procedures, access to VIP lounges, and discounts on luxury services. Members also enjoy complimentary extras such as spa treatments, health checks, hotel stays, and other exclusive perks. This makes the Elite Visa the ideal choice for frequent travelers and long-term residents who appreciate comfort and convenience.

    LTR Visa Thailand (Long-term stay visa)

    The LTR visa for Thailand is a 10-year visa with a renewable entry permit for 5 years. It is ideal for retirees, investors, remote workers, and professionals. This visa offers significant advantages, such as reduced income tax rates for certain categories, expedited airport processing, and annual reporting to immigration authorities instead of the usual 90-day reporting. The LTR visa is suitable for individuals planning to settle in Thailand or work there for an extended period.

    Visa for Thailand (DTV)

    This 5-year visa, also informally known as the "Digital Nomad Visa," is aimed at remote workers and digital nomads who want to work flexibly while traveling. The DTV visa for Thailand allows a stay of up to 180 days per entry and is therefore suitable for anyone who wants to stay for several months at a time without having to frequently extend their visa.

    Professional support with your Thai visa application

    Further information about this visa can be found on Siam Legal's "Thailand Tourist Visa" page. If you wish to apply for this or any other Thai visa, contact Siam Legal today to schedule a consultation! As a full-service law firm and visa consultancy in Thailand, our experienced immigration team will help simplify the application process and ensure you receive your visa quickly and easily, so your travel plans are not disrupted by entry issues.

    Frequently asked questions about the tourist visa for a single entry to Thailand

    How much does a tourist visa for a single entry to Thailand cost?

    The visa fee for a single-entry Thai tourist visa varies depending on the application location and date, but is generally between US$30 and US$50. For online applications, payment is made directly through the e-visa system.

    Can I leave and re-enter Thailand with a single-entry tourist visa?

    No, the single-entry tourist visa only allows one entry. Once you leave Thailand, it expires regardless of any remaining validity period, and you will need a new visa to re-enter. If you plan to travel to and from Thailand frequently, you should consider applying for a multiple-entry tourist visa. This visa allows unlimited entries for six months and costs between US$150 and US$250.

    What penalties are imposed for exceeding the permitted length of stay with a Thai tourist visa for a single entry?

    Overstaying the permitted length of stay on a single-entry Thai tourist visa incurs a daily fee of 500 THB. Longer overstays may result in a re-entry ban to Thailand.

    Can I extend my Thai single-entry tourist visa during my stay in Thailand?

    Yes, you can extend your single-entry Thailand tourist visa for 30 days at any Thai immigration office for a fee of 1,900 THB.

    Can I work or earn an income in Thailand with a Thai tourist visa?

    No, the Thai single-entry tourist visa is exclusively for tourism, leisure, or medical purposes. Working, volunteering, or engaging in business activities is not permitted with this visa.

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