Thailand, with its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, delicious street food, and rich cultural heritage, is one of the most popular destinations for Indian travelers. Whether you are planning a vacation, business trip, or long-term stay, understanding the Thailand visa process for Indians is crucial.
Do Indians Need a Visa to Visit Thailand?
Yes, visas are required for Indian Passport holders to enter Thailand. That’s why there are three different types of Thailand visa applications: visa on arrival (VoA), e-visa, and embassy-issued visa.
Types of Thailand Visas for Indians
You can get different types of visas depending on your reason for visiting. Here are the types most commonly used:
1. Visa on Arrival (VoA)
Indian passport holders can avail of the VoA facility for Thailand. This suits short visits of 15 days or less.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Passport valid for at least 6 months
- Return flight ticket within 15 days
- Proof of stay (hotel booking or invitation letter)
- Sufficient funds (at least 10,000 THB per person or 20,000 THB per family)
Required Documents:
- Original passport with at least 2 blank pages
- A completed Visa on Arrival application form
- A passport-sized photograph (4×6 cm, taken within the last 6 months)
- Proof of accommodation in Thailand
- Return flight ticket
- Visa fee (2,000 THB, payable in cash)
Processing Time:
- Takes 30 minutes few hours in the airport
Entry Points Offering Visa on Arrival:
- Suvarnabhumi airport ,Bangkok
- Don Mueang Airport (Bangkok)
- Phuket International Airport
- Chiang Mai International Airport
2. Thailand Tourist Visa (Single/Multiple Entry)
Thailand Tourist Visa is applicable for Indian travelers who want to stay longer than VoA.
Types:
- Single Entry Tourist Visa – 3 months validity, maximum stay for 60 days
- Multiple Entry Tourist Visa – Valid for 6 months, allows multiple stays of up to 60 days each.
Required Documents:
- Passport for at least 6 months
- Visa application form
- Two passport-size photographs
- Flight tickets (to and from Thailand)
- Proof of accommodation
- Bank statement with a minimum INR 50,000 to proof of funds (last 6 months)
- Visa charges (Single Entry: INR 2,500; Multiple Entry: INR 12,000)
Processing Time:
It usually takes 5-7 working days
3. Thailand Business Visa
For Indians traveling for business, the Thailand Business Visa is essential.
Types:
- Single Entry Business Visa – Valid for 3 months
- Multiple Entry Business Visa – Valid for 1 year
Required Documents:
- Invitation letter from a company in Thailand
- Company registration documents
- Financial documents and bank statements
- Passport valid for at least 6 months
- Visa fee: INR 5,000 – 12,000
4. Thailand Student Visa
For students enrolling in a recognized Thai institution.
Required Documents:
- Admission letter from Thai university
- Proof of tuition fee payment
- Academic certificates
- Bank statements
- Visa fee: INR 5,000
5. Thailand Work Visa
Indians seeking employment in Thailand must apply for a Non-Immigrant B Visa (Work Visa).
Required Documents:
- Job offer letter from a Thai employer
- Work permit approval
- Passport valid for at least 6 months
- Visa fee: INR 5,000
How do you apply for a Thailand visa from India?
6. Online (E-Visa Application)
Thailand has introduced an E-Visa system for Indians, which enables the filing of applications through the Internet.
Steps to Apply:
- Visit the official Thailand e-visa website.
- Choose the visa type and fill out the form online.
- Upload required documents.
- Pay the visa fee online.
- Get visa approval by email.
Embassy/Consulate Application
Indians can also apply at the Royal Thai Embassy in New Delhi or at the Consulates in Mumbai, Chennai, and Kolkata.
Steps to Apply:
- Download and fill out the visa application form.
- Gather the required documents.
- Submit the application to the embassy/consulate.
- Pay the visa fee.
- Collect the visa after processing.
Thailand Visa Fees for Indians
| Visa Type | Fees (INR) |
| Visa on Arrival | INR12,000 |
| Single Entry Tourist Visa | INR 2,500 |
| Multiple Entry Tourist Visa | INR 12,000 |
| Business Visa | INR 5,000 – 12,000 |
| Student Visa | INR 5,000 |
| Work Visa | INR 5,000 |
Thailand Visa Processing Time
- Visa on Arrival: 30 minutes – 2 hours
- E-Visa: 3-5 working days
- Embassy Visa: 5 – 7 working days
Thailand Visa Rejection Reasons
Your visa application could be rejected for the following reasons:
- Insufficient funds
- Incorrect/incomplete documentation
- Previous immigration violations
- Passport validity issues
Tips for a Smooth Thailand Visa Process
- Apply for a visa at least 2-3 weeks in advance.
- Ensure all documents are clear and up to date.
- Carry enough cash (Visa on Arrival requires cash payment).
- Book refundable flight and hotel options in case of visa delays.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. Do Indians Need a Visa to Travel to Thailand?
Yes, Indian passport holders require a visa to enter Thailand. They can opt for a Visa on Arrival (VoA), an E-Visa, or apply at the Thai Embassy/Consulate.
2. What Are the Different Types of Thailand Visas Available for Indians?
Indians can apply for:
- Visa on Arrival (15 days stay)
- Tourist Visa (Single Entry – 60 days, Multiple Entry – 6 months)
- Business Visa
- Student Visa
- Work Visa
3. Can Indians Get a Visa on Arrival in Thailand?
Yes, Indians can get a Visa on Arrival at select airports in Thailand for a stay of up to 15 days. However, they must meet eligibility criteria, such as having a return flight ticket and sufficient funds.
4. How Much Does a Thailand Visa Cost for Indians?
Visa fees vary based on type:
- Visa on Arrival: INR 5,000
- Single Entry Tourist Visa: INR 2,500
- Multiple Entry Tourist Visa: INR 12,000
- Business, Student, and Work Visa: INR 5,000 – 12,000
5. How Long Does It Take to Process a Thailand Visa?
- Visa on Arrival: 30 minutes to 2 hours
- E-Visa: 3-5 working days
- Embassy/Consulate Visa: 5-7 working days
6. What are the common reasons for Thailand’s visa rejection?
Visa applications may be rejected due to:
- Insufficient funds
- Incomplete or incorrect documents
- Previous immigration violations
- Passport validity issues
7. What Are Some Tips for a Smooth Thailand Visa Process?
- Apply 2-3 weeks in advance to avoid last-minute issues.
- Ensure all documents are valid and complete.
- Carry sufficient cash for Visa on Arrival.
- Book refundable flights and hotels to handle visa delays.
