Planning a trip to Thailand in 2025? Great news for Indian travelers: Thailand has introduced an e-Visa system starting January 1, 2025, and continues to offer visa-free entry for short stays. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the visa process smoothly.
1. Visa-Free Entry for Indian Tourists
Indian passport holders can enjoy visa-free entry into Thailand for tourism and short business trips up to 60 days. This exemption is valid until further notice, making spontaneous travel more accessible.
2. Visa on Arrival (VoA)
For those not eligible for visa-free entry or preferring to obtain a visa upon arrival, Thailand offers a Visa on Arrival (VoA) facility:
- Validity: 15 days
- Fee: THB 2,000 (~INR 4,460), payable in Thai Baht only
- Requirements:
- Passport valid for at least 30 days with two blank pages
- Confirmed return ticket within 15 days
- Proof of accommodation
- Two recent passport-sized photos (4×6 cm)
- Proof of sufficient funds: THB 10,000 per person or THB 20,000 per family
- Completed arrival-departure card
- Visa application form (available at entry points)
Note: VoA is available at major international airports and select land border checkpoints.
3. Introduction of e-Visa System
From January 1, 2025, Thailand has implemented an Electronic Visa (e-Visa) system for Indian travelers:
- Application Portal: thaievisa.go.th
- Processing Time: Approximately 14 working days after receipt of visa fee
- Payment: Offline payment methods; details provided by the embassy or consulates
- Note: Visa fees are non-refundable under any circumstances
4. Tourist Visa Options
For stays longer than 60 days or multiple entries, consider applying for a tourist visa:
- Single Entry Tourist Visa:
- Fee: INR 2,500
- Validity: 3 months
- Stay Duration: Up to 60 days
- Multiple Entry Tourist Visa:
- Fee: INR 12,500
- Validity: 6 months
- Stay Duration: Up to 60 days per entry
Applications can be submitted through the BLS Thailand Visa Application Centre.
5. Required Documents for Tourist Visa
When applying for a tourist visa, ensure you have the following documents:
- Valid passport with at least six months’ validity and two blank pages
- Completed visa application form
- Two recent passport-sized photographs (3.5×4.5 cm)
- Confirmed return flight tickets
- Proof of accommodation in Thailand
- Bank statements showing sufficient funds (THB 20,000 per person or THB 40,000 per family)
- Covering letter stating the purpose of visit
6. Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for a Thai visa, applicants must:
- Hold a valid Indian passport
- Have no criminal record
- Possess sufficient funds for the duration of stay
- Provide proof of onward or return travel
- Have confirmed accommodation arrangements
7. Application Process
For e-Visa:
- Visit thaievisa.go.th
- Create an account and fill out the application form
- Upload required documents
- Submit the application and choose an offline payment method
- Wait for processing (approximately 14 working days)
For Visa on Arrival:
- Arrive at designated entry points in Thailand
- Fill out the visa application form available at the checkpoint
- Submit the form along with required documents
- Pay the visa fee in Thai Baht
- Proceed through immigration clearance
8. Additional Tips
- Currency: Ensure you have Thai Baht for visa fees and expenses
- Photographs: Carry extra passport-sized photos to avoid delays
- Flight Tickets: Keep a copy of your return ticket handy
- Accommodation Proof: Have printed confirmations of hotel bookings
- Travel Insurance: Consider purchasing travel insurance for added security
Thailand’s updated visa policies in 2025 offer greater flexibility and convenience for Indian travelers. Whether opting for visa-free entry, Visa on Arrival, or the new e-Visa system, ensure you meet all requirements and have the necessary documentation to enjoy a hassle-free trip.