Updated in July 2025 by Siam Legal International, a law firm in Bangkok, Thailand.
If you are planning a short trip to Thailand solely for tourist purposes, you may not need a visa in advance if you hold a passport from a country eligible for the Thailand Visa on Arrival program.
What is a visa on arrival in Thailand?
The Thailand Visa on Arrival (VOA) is a short-term visa for passport holders from certain countries. It allows entry into Thailand without a prior visa application and a stay of up to 15 days, provided the visit is solely for tourism purposes.
As the name suggests, this visa is only issued upon arrival in Thailand. To apply for it, you must enter the country through one of the designated immigration checkpoints.
However, if you meet the requirements for the Thai visa waiver, this could be the better option for you. It allows you to enter Thailand visa-free and stay for up to 60 days. An extension of another 30 days is possible at the nearest Thai immigration office. However, please note that according to recent government announcements, the initial visa-free stay could be reduced to 30 days sometime in 2025, with the possibility of extension still being granted.
Countries eligible for a Thailand visa on arrival
The Thailand visa on arrival is currently only available to passport holders of the following countries:
If your home country is not listed here, you may be eligible for the visa waiver program. Follow the link above for more information.
Thailand Visa on Arrival Requirements
If you are from one of the countries eligible for a Thailand visa on arrival and wish to apply for one, please prepare the following documents and ensure you have them readily available upon arrival in the country:
It is important to note that a non-refundable visa fee of 2,000 THB will be charged, which must be paid in cash at the immigration counter.
The fee must be paid in the local currency, Thai Baht (THB), otherwise you risk being denied entry. Therefore, it is strongly recommended that you exchange money before your trip to Thailand. There are exchange bureaus at major airports if you are arriving by plane and haven't already exchanged money. However, as these are not always open, it's advisable to play it safe.
List of Thai immigration control points for visas on arrival
You can apply for the visa upon arrival at the following international airports, border crossings and ports:
Digital Entry Card for Thailand (TDAC)
On May 1, 2025, Thailand replaced the paper TM6 form with the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC). All travelers must now complete and submit this online form before arrival, regardless of visa type or mode of entry (land, sea, or air). This applies to all visitors with a Visa on Arrival (VOA).
The TDAC was introduced to improve border control, support security efforts and streamline the arrival process by electronically recording travelers' data, including name, passport information, flight number and accommodation address in Thailand.
Be sure to register with the TDAC before your arrival. You can submit the form up to three days before your arrival. Failure to register in advance may result in delays at immigration or even denial of entry.
Alternatives to a visa upon arrival in Thailand
If you wish to stay in Thailand longer than the Visa on Arrival (VOA) allows, or if it doesn't meet your needs, there are numerous alternative visa options for Thailand. Whether you're planning an extended stay or want to travel to Thailand frequently without the hassle of repeated visa applications, there's a suitable solution for you.
Thailand Tourist Visa
If you are not eligible for a visa on arrival or visa waiver, but still plan a tourist trip to Thailand, you can apply for a tourist visa. This visa is available for both single and multiple entries and entitles you to a 60-day stay in the country. You have the option to extend this stay for an additional 30 days at the nearest Thai immigration office.
Visa for Thailand (DTV)
If you are planning an extended stay in Thailand with fewer entry requirements, the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV Visa Thailand) offers a flexible, multiple-entry option. Specifically designed for location-independent professionals and those interested in experiencing Thai culture, the DTV Visa allows stays of up to five years. Each entry grants a stay of 180 days, which can be extended for another 180 days at the nearest Thai immigration office.
The DTV offers a cost-effective solution for long-term stays and repeated visits, reducing the need for frequent visa applications or re-entry permits.
Thailand Elite Visa
If you want a stress-free, long-term stay in Thailand and wish to enjoy exclusive benefits, the Thailand Elite Visa might be the right choice for you. This multiple-entry visa is available in five membership levels, valid for 5 to 20 years, and offers a variety of VIP benefits for comfort, convenience, and luxury.
With the Thailand Elite Visa, you benefit from expedited immigration, access to luxury airport lounges, and discounts at top restaurants and select retailers. Members also gain access to a points system, which allows them to redeem complimentary perks such as spa treatments, hotel stays, and boat or vehicle rentals. This makes your trip through Thailand significantly easier and more enjoyable.
Professional assistance with entry into Thailand
Are you planning a trip to Thailand but are not eligible for a visa on arrival or visa exemption? Then contact Siam Legal International. We are a full-service law firm and visa consultancy with over 20 years of experience, assisting clients from all over the world with quick and easy entry into Thailand.
Our team of Thai immigration specialists has the necessary knowledge and experience to help you find the right Thai visa. We will guide you through every step of the application process – from compiling the required documents to submitting them to the relevant authorities.
By partnering with Siam Legal, you can avoid unnecessary delays and maximize your chances of approval, allowing you to make the most of your time in Thailand without additional stress related to immigration.
For professional support with your Thai visa application, do not hesitate to contact Siam Legal and arrange a consultation appointment!
Frequently asked questions about the Thailand visa upon arrival
How much does a Thailand visa cost upon arrival?
The Thailand visa on arrival costs 2,000 THB and must be paid in cash at the immigration counter in the local currency, the Thai Baht (THB).
Is the Thailand visa valid for multiple entries upon arrival?
No, the Thailand visa on arrival only allows for a single entry. This means that the visa becomes invalid if you leave Thailand before its expiry date, and you will need to apply for a new visa to re-enter the country.
Do I need a return flight for the Thailand visa upon arrival?
Yes, you must provide proof of your departure from Thailand within 15 days. If you cannot provide this, you will most likely be denied entry.
Can I apply for the visa upon arrival at any airport in Thailand?
No, the visa on arrival can only be obtained at selected airports, border crossings, and ports in Thailand. If you arrive at a location not listed for obtaining a visa on arrival, you will most likely be denied entry.
Do all members of my family need to register for a visa upon arrival in Thailand?
Yes, each family member must fill out their own Thailand visa application upon arrival and pay the visa fee separately in order to be allowed to enter the country.
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