A Thailand Tourist Visa allows foreign nationals to enter Thailand for leisure and tourism purposes, with stays of up to 60 days per entry. Whether you need one depends on your nationality, the length of your trip, and how you plan to enter the country. This guide covers the different tourist visa types, requirements, fees, and alternatives so you can choose the right option for your trip.
What Is a Thailand Tourist Visa?
A Thailand Tourist Visa is an official stamp or sticker placed in your passport by a Royal Thai Embassy or Consulate (or issued electronically via the Thailand e-Visa system). It permits entry into Thailand for tourism, holidays, or medical treatment. This visa does not allow employment or long-term residence.
The Tourist Visa is different from a Visa Exemption stamp, which is granted at the airport for citizens of 93 eligible countries and allows a shorter stay. If you are planning a trip longer than 30 days or your nationality is not eligible for visa-free entry, you will likely need to apply for a Tourist Visa before arrival.
All travelers entering Thailand must also complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) before passing through immigration. This is a separate requirement from the visa itself.
Types of Thailand Tourist Visa
Thailand offers two main types of Tourist Visa, each suited to different travel plans.
Single-Entry Tourist Visa
The Single-Entry Tourist Visa is the most common option for travelers making one trip to Thailand.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Validity | 3 months from date of issue |
| Entry type | Single entry |
| Stay per entry | Up to 60 days |
| Extension | 30 days at a Thai immigration office |
| Where to apply | Thai embassy/consulate or e-Visa portal |
Once you leave Thailand, this visa expires regardless of remaining validity. If you plan to return, you will need a new visa.
Multiple-Entry Tourist Visa
The Multiple-Entry Tourist Visa is ideal for travelers who expect to visit Thailand several times within a six-month period.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Validity | 6 months from date of issue |
| Entry type | Multiple entries |
| Stay per entry | Up to 60 days |
| Extension | 30 days per entry at a Thai immigration office |
| Where to apply | Thai embassy/consulate or e-Visa portal |
With this visa, you can enter and leave Thailand as many times as you wish during the six-month validity. Each stay is capped at 60 days, extendable once by 30 days.
Tourist Visa vs. Visa Exemption vs. Visa on Arrival
Thailand has three main pathways for short-term visitors. Understanding the differences helps you choose the right one.
| Feature | Tourist Visa | Visa Exemption | Visa on Arrival |
|---|---|---|---|
| Eligible nationalities | All (application required) | 93 countries | 31 countries |
| Maximum stay | 60 days | 60 days | 15 days |
| Extension possible | Yes (30 days) | Yes (30 days) | No |
| Application method | Embassy, consulate, or e-Visa | At the airport | At the airport |
| Fee | 1,000-5,000 THB | Free | 2,000 THB |
| Multiple entry option | Yes (6-month visa) | N/A | No |
The Visa Exemption is the simplest option if your country qualifies, but it only covers stays up to 60 days. The Visa on Arrival is available to a smaller group of 31 nationalities and limits your stay to 15 days. For longer or more flexible trips, the Tourist Visa is the way to go.
Check the full TDAC requirements to understand what documentation you need regardless of which entry method you use.
Requirements for a Thailand Tourist Visa
When applying for a Thailand Tourist Visa, you will need to submit a set of documents. Requirements can vary slightly by country and embassy, so always confirm with your local Thai mission before applying.
Core documents:
- Completed visa application form
- Passport with at least 6 months of remaining validity
- Recent passport-sized photograph (4×6 cm)
- Confirmed return or onward flight ticket
- Proof of accommodation in Thailand (hotel booking or invitation letter)
- Financial evidence: bank statement showing at least 10,000 THB per person or 20,000 THB per family
Additional documents that may be required:
- Travel itinerary
- Employment letter or proof of income
- Travel insurance covering your stay in Thailand
- Previous Thai visa copies (if applicable)
Some embassies accept online applications through the official Thailand e-Visa portal, while others require in-person submission. Processing typically takes 3-5 business days, though this varies by location.
Thailand Tourist Visa Fees
Visa fees depend on the type and where you apply. Below are the standard government fees as of 2026.
| Visa Type | Fee |
|---|---|
| Single-Entry Tourist Visa | 1,000 THB (~$28 USD) |
| Multiple-Entry Tourist Visa | 5,000 THB (~$140 USD) |
| Visa on Arrival | 2,000 THB (~$56 USD) |
| 30-day extension | 1,900 THB (~$53 USD) |
Note that some embassies charge additional service or processing fees. The e-Visa portal may also have a separate service charge depending on your nationality. Fees are non-refundable even if your application is denied.
For a complete breakdown of all visa-related costs, see our guide to Thailand TDAC fees and costs.
How to Apply for a Thailand Tourist Visa
You can apply for a Thai Tourist Visa through two main channels:
Option 1: Apply at a Thai Embassy or Consulate
- Contact your nearest Thai embassy or consulate to confirm current requirements
- Gather all required documents
- Submit your application in person (some embassies accept mail-in applications)
- Pay the visa fee
- Wait 3-5 business days for processing
- Collect your passport with the visa stamp
Option 2: Apply Online via Thailand e-Visa
- Visit thaievisa.go.th
- Create an account and fill out the online application
- Upload scanned copies of your documents
- Pay the visa fee online
- Wait for approval (typically 3-10 business days)
- Receive your e-Visa approval via email
Not all embassies accept e-Visa applications, and some require you to apply exclusively online. Check with your specific embassy before visiting in person.
Extending Your Tourist Visa in Thailand
If you want to stay longer than your initial 60-day permit, you can apply for a 30-day extension at any Thai immigration office. The extension costs 1,900 THB and must be applied for before your current stay expires.
To apply for an extension:
- Visit the nearest immigration office
- Bring your passport, a photocopy of your passport pages, and one photo
- Fill out the TM.7 extension form
- Pay the 1,900 THB fee
- Your passport will be stamped with the new expiry date
Overstaying your visa is taken seriously in Thailand. Fines are 500 THB per day of overstay, up to a maximum of 20,000 THB. Overstays of more than 90 days can result in detention and a ban from re-entering Thailand.
Alternatives to the Tourist Visa
If a standard Tourist Visa does not fit your plans, Thailand offers several alternative visa options.
DTV Visa (Destination Thailand Visa)
The DTV Visa is designed for digital nomads and remote workers. It provides a 5-year multiple-entry visa with up to 180 days per entry. You must prove remote employment or participation in Thai cultural activities to qualify.
Thai Elite Visa (Thailand Privilege Visa)
For those seeking a premium long-term stay, the Thai Elite Visa offers memberships ranging from 5 to 20 years. Members enjoy fast-tracked immigration, concierge services, and extended stays without frequent visa runs. Membership fees start at approximately 900,000 THB.
90-Day Non-Immigrant Visa
If your purpose extends beyond tourism (business, education, retirement), the 90-Day Non-Immigrant Visa allows a longer initial stay and can be extended to a one-year visa through the Thai Immigration Bureau.
Visa Exemption
Citizens of 93 countries can enter Thailand without a visa for up to 60 days. This is the easiest option for short trips if your nationality qualifies. You will still need to complete the TDAC Digital Arrival Card before arrival.
Important Tips for Tourist Visa Holders
- Complete the TDAC before arrival. All foreign visitors must submit the Thailand Digital Arrival Card online before passing through immigration. Filling it out in advance avoids delays at the airport.
- Carry proof of accommodation and return travel. Immigration officers may ask to see hotel bookings and a return flight ticket.
- Keep your departure card. The departure card (TM.6) is attached to your passport and must be surrendered when you leave Thailand.
- Do not overstay. Even a single day of overstay can result in fines and future visa complications.
- Apply early. Submit your visa application at least 2-4 weeks before your planned departure date to allow for processing time.
FAQs About Thailand Tourist Visa
How long can I stay in Thailand with a Tourist Visa?
A Single-Entry Tourist Visa allows a stay of up to 60 days, extendable by 30 days at a Thai immigration office for a maximum of 90 days.
Can I work in Thailand on a Tourist Visa?
No. A Tourist Visa does not permit employment in Thailand. Working on a tourist visa is illegal and can result in fines, deportation, and future entry bans.
What is the difference between a Tourist Visa and a Visa Exemption?
A Tourist Visa must be obtained before travel from a Thai embassy, consulate, or e-Visa portal, and allows up to 60 days. A Visa Exemption is granted at the airport for citizens of 93 countries, also for up to 60 days, but does not require advance application.
Can I extend my Tourist Visa while in Thailand?
Yes. You can extend your stay by 30 days at any Thai immigration office for a fee of 1,900 THB. Apply before your current stay expires to avoid overstay penalties.
Do I need to complete the TDAC if I have a Tourist Visa?
Yes. The Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) is a separate requirement from the visa. All foreign visitors must complete it online before arriving in Thailand, regardless of visa type.
How much money do I need in my bank account for a Thai Tourist Visa?
You need to show at least 10,000 THB (~$280 USD) per person or 20,000 THB (~$560 USD) per family in your bank account. Some embassies may require more depending on your nationality and the length of your planned stay.
Can I enter Thailand multiple times with a Tourist Visa?
Only with a Multiple-Entry Tourist Visa, which is valid for 6 months and allows unlimited entries with a 60-day stay per entry. A Single-Entry Tourist Visa expires once you leave Thailand.
