Indian travelers planning trips to Thailand will now face new entry requirements as the Southeast Asian nation has removed India from its visa-free entry list. The Thai Cabinet approved this change on May 19, placing India back into the Visa on Arrival (VoA) category, a status it shares with Azerbaijan, Belarus, and Serbia under the revised framework.
This policy shift is part of a larger rollback of Thailand's post-pandemic 60-day visa exemption scheme, which previously applied to 93 countries. The VoA scheme itself has been significantly narrowed, now applying to just four nations, down from 31.
Understanding the New Visa on Arrival Process
Indian citizens now have two primary methods to secure their Visa on Arrival:
Option 1: Applying at the Airport (Offline)
For those preferring to manage their visa upon arrival, the process at international airports like Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi or Don Mueang is straightforward:
- Collect and complete the VoA application form at designated counters.
- Submit your passport, a recent 4x6 cm photograph, confirmed flight tickets, and accommodation details to an immigration officer.
- Pay the 2,000 Thai Baht (THB) visa fee in cash. It is crucial to have Thai Baht ready before reaching the counter, as currency exchange facilities might be limited or incur higher charges.
- Upon verification, your passport will be stamped, permitting a maximum stay of 15 days.
Option 2: Electronic Visa on Arrival (eVOA) Online
To avoid potential queues and streamline the entry process, travelers can apply for an Electronic Visa on Arrival through the official Thailand E-Visa on Arrival portal before their departure. This method involves:
- Submitting the application online and paying the 2,000 THB fee, plus any applicable handling charges.
- An express service is available for an additional fee, promising a decision within 24 hours.
- Once approved, download your eVOA. Upon arrival in Thailand, proceed to the dedicated e-VOA lane at immigration, present your passport, and gain entry.
Essential Documents and Funds Required
Regardless of whether you choose the offline or online application method, several key documents and proofs are mandatory for all Indian travelers:
- Passport: Must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay and contain a minimum of two blank pages.
- Flight Tickets: A confirmed return or onward flight ticket departing Thailand within 15 days of your entry.
- Accommodation: Proof of confirmed accommodation, such as a hotel booking for your entire stay.
- Funds: Evidence of sufficient funds, amounting to 10,000 THB per person or 20,000 THB per family, typically in cash.
- Photograph: One recent passport-sized photograph (4x6 cm).
Additionally, all travelers must complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) online via the Thai Immigration TDAC portal at least three days prior to their arrival. This digital card is a mandatory requirement for entry into the country.