Whether you’re planning a beach escape in Phuket or exploring the temples of Chiang Mai, this guide lays out everything you need to know about the standard Tourist Visa (TR) and all the new options and rules that have come into effect recently. By the end, you’ll have a clear roadmap for smooth entry, longer stays, and avoiding common pitfalls.
What You Should Know About the Standard Tourist Visa (TR)
Thailand’s Tourist Visa (TR) remains the go-to option if you need more than the visa-exemption period. Here’s how it breaks down:
Validity and Length of Stay
• Each TR is valid for 3 months from the issue date.
• You may stay up to 60 days per entry via the 60-day stay allowance for Tourist Visas{:target=”_blank”}.
Single vs. Multiple Entry
• Single-entry: one 60-day visit.
• Multiple-entry: up to six months total, with repeated 60-day visits.
Documents You Must Prepare
- Passport (valid for at least six months)
- Completed visa application form
- Two passport-style photos (4×6 cm)
- Confirmed round-trip flight itinerary
- Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings or invitation)
- Evidence of financial means in line with the financial proof requirement reinstated for TR applicants{:target=”_blank”}.
Fees and Processing Times
• Fee for single-entry: THB 1,000 (approx. USD 30).
• Fee for multiple-entry: THB 5,000 (approx. USD 150).
• Standard processing: 5–10 business days.
Extending Your TR Stay
You can apply for a 30-day extension at any Immigration Office in Thailand—see the 30-day extension procedure with the Immigration Bureau{:target=”_blank”}.
– Fee: THB 1,900
– New authorized stay: up to 90 days total
Long-Stay and Specialized Visas
If you’re not on a quick visit, Thailand now offers several extended-stay visas that go beyond the standard TR.
Special Tourist Visa (STV)
The STV is made for visitors who wish to remain longer:
– Initial stay: 90 days
– Two extensions of 90 days each (total 270 days)
– Requires proof of health insurance covering COVID-19 treatment and funds of at least USD 20,000, as outlined in this TAT News overview of the Special Tourist Visa{:target=”_blank”} and the WHO’s COVID-19 travel advice{:target=”_blank”}.
Digital Nomad Visa (Planned Rollout)
Thailand plans a visa tailored to remote workers, featuring:
– One-year validity, renewable
– No minimum income requirement, as reported by CNN’s coverage of the Digital Nomad Visa{:target=”_blank”}
– Tax incentives for earnings sourced from abroad
Long-Term Resident Visa (LTR)
Aimed at wealthy individuals, retirees, and specialists:
– Validity: 5 years, renewable
– Opens access to real estate ownership under certain conditions
– Requires net worth of at least USD 1 million or monthly income above USD 8,000, per the Bangkok Post’s LTR Visa analysis{:target=”_blank”}.
New Entry Procedures You Can’t Ignore
Thailand is tightening its entry processes to manage visitor flows and security. Here’s what’s changed:
Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)
- Mandatory registration for visa-exempt travelers starting June 1, 2025
- Application portal opens December 2024
- Small processing fee applies; see details in The Thaiger’s ETA briefing{:target=”_blank”}.
Reinstated Financial Proof
As of May 2025, all TR applicants must again show bank statements with a minimum balance (approx. USD 800 per person), as mandated in the Royal Gazette announcement{:target=”_blank”}.
Updated Arrival/Departure Form
From May 1, 2025, every foreign national must complete a new electronic TM6 form before disembarkation. Refer to the Wikipedia overview of Thailand’s TM6 Arrival/Departure Card{:target=”_blank”} for full details.
Expanded Visa-Free and VOA Schemes
Thailand recently added 10 more nationalities to its visa-exemption list, taking the total to 64 countries eligible for up to 30 days without a visa, according to Tourism Authority of Thailand data{:target=”_blank”}. Over 60 percent of tourists now enter visa-free, primarily from European Union and East Asian nations.
Avoiding Rejection and Perfecting Your Photo
There’s nothing worse than having your visa denied. Keep these key points in mind:
Top Reasons for Visa Refusal
• Insufficient financial proof
• Incomplete or inconsistent documents
• Unclear travel itinerary
• Questionable travel history or previous overstays, as detailed by SchengenVisaInfo on common refusal causes{:target=”_blank”}.
Visa Photo Specifications
• Size: 4×6 cm, light background
• Recent (taken within 6 months)
• No hats or sunglasses
Online tools such as Passport Photo Online can adjust your snapshot to meet Thai requirements.
Your Thailand Entry Checklist
As you finalize your plans, tick off these items to make sure nothing gets overlooked:
- Choose the right visa type (TR, STV, Digital Nomad, or LTR).
- Prepare all documents—including renewed proof of funds.
- Register for ETA if you qualify.
- Book your flights and accommodations.
- Capture your approved photo or use an online tool.
- Complete the new TM6 form before arrival.
By following this guide, you’ll avoid last-minute delays and enter Thailand with confidence—ready for whatever adventure awaits.