Thailand Visa for Citizens of India | Siam Legal International

 

Thailand Visa Application

Citizens of India

Thailand offers a rich tapestry of experiences, from bustling markets and tranquil beaches to a deep cultural heritage. For Indian tourists looking to explore Thailand, the recent introduction of a temporary visa exemption scheme makes the journey even more accessible and hassle-free. Here's what Indian travelers need to know about visiting Thailand under this new scheme and options for those considering longer stays.

Visa-Free Entry for Indian Tourists

In a move to boost tourism, Thailand has introduced a visa exemption for Indian passport holders, allowing for short-term visits specifically for tourism purposes. This exemption is a strategic initiative designed to warmly welcome Indian tourists. Here are the essential details you should be aware of.

Temporary Visa Exemption Scheme

From 10 November 2023 until 10 May 2024, Indian citizens are granted the opportunity to enjoy visa-free entry to Thailand, allowing for a 30-day stay specifically for tourism purposes.

Entry Requirements

To take advantage of this visa exemption, Indian tourists must:

  • Show proof of onward travel by presenting confirmed onward or return tickets, indicating plans to leave Thailand within 30 days of arrival.
  • Ensure their passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond the entry date into Thailand and has at least two blank pages.
  • Provide evidence of sufficient funds and confirmed accommodation for the duration of their stay to ensure a smooth travel experience.

Thailand Tourist Visa for Extended Stays

Indian nationals wishing to extend their visit to Thailand beyond the initial 30-day visa exemption must either secure a tourist visa from a Thai Embassy or Consulate before departure or, if already in Thailand, seek an extension from the nearest Thai immigration office.

Visa on Arrival for Indian Citizens Post-Exemption Scheme

After the temporary visa exemption scheme for Indian citizens concludes on May 10, 2024, individuals seeking to visit Thailand can utilize the Visa on Arrival (VoA) facility. This provision is specifically designed for tourists from India, among other eligible countries, facilitating a straightforward entry into Thailand for brief visits. Eligible travelers are permitted to stay in Thailand for up to 15 days under this VoA arrangement, offering a convenient option for short-term tourism and exploration.

Required Documents

  • Passport with at least 6 months validity beyond the entry date and at least two blank pages.
  • Recent photograph (4 x 6 cm) taken within the last six months.
  • Verifiable address in Thailand which could be a hotel or an apartment booking.
  • Confirmed return ticket showing your departure from Thailand within 15 days.
  • Travelers must show they have at least 10,000 THB per individual or 20,000 THB per family as proof of funds to cover their stay.
  • Completed Visa on Arrival Form TM88, which can be found and filled out before travel or upon arrival.
  • Visa fee of 2,000 THB, payable in Thai currency upon entry. This fee is subject to change, so it's advisable to check the latest information before travel.

Application Process

Upon arrival in Thailand, eligible Indian citizens should proceed to the designated Visa on Arrival counters to submit their application along with all the required documents and the visa fee. It's crucial to ensure all documents are prepared in advance to facilitate a smooth and quick application process.

This Visa on Arrival facility is designed to make short visits to Thailand convenient for Indian tourists, allowing them to enjoy the beauty and hospitality of the country without the need for a pre-arranged visa from a Thai Embassy or Consulate. Always check the latest travel advisories and visa regulations before planning your trip to ensure compliance with the current requirements.

Thailand and India Bilateral Agreement

The bilateral agreement between Thailand and India allows Indian nationals holding Diplomatic or Official passports visa-free entry into Thailand for stays not exceeding 90 days. This arrangement is designed to support a broad spectrum of visits, including leisure, business, or official duties, facilitating smooth and unrestricted travel for Indian diplomatic and official personnel. The initiative aims to bolster diplomatic and official relations between Thailand and India. Should the need arise to extend the stay beyond the 90-day mark, Indian individuals are required to apply for a visa that matches the extended duration and purpose of their visit to Thailand.

Additional Information:
While Royal Thai Embassies and Consulates are responsible for issuing visas, the final decision on entry into Thailand rests with the immigration officers at the point of entry. They have the authority to deny entry if they suspect a traveler does not meet the necessary criteria as per the Immigration Act B.E. 2522 (1979).

Siam Legal is dedicated to simplifying the visa application process for Indian citizens traveling to Thailand, ensuring compliance with Thai regulations for worry-free entry. Our expert services offer detailed guidance through each step, from the initial consultation to your successful arrival in Thailand.

Thailand Visa Option

Siam Legal International offers services on the following types of visa to citizens of India:

90-day Non-Immigrant Visa Thailand Visa

Indian nationals aiming to enter Thailand for specific reasons like education (ED), business (B), family visits (O), official duties (F), or religious activities (R) can opt for the 90-day Non-Immigrant Visa. This single-entry visa permits a stay of up to 90 days and is conducive to activities such as applying for a work permit or opening a bank account, facilitating a productive tenure in Thailand.

1-Year Non-Immigrant Thailand Visa

This visa serves as a multiple-entry permit valid for a year, with each entry allowing a stay of up to 90 days. It requires the visa holder to exit and re-enter Thailand every 90 days to obtain a new entry stamp. Suitable for education, business, family visits, official duties, or religious purposes, this visa offers the flexibility to apply for a work permit, open a bank account, and potentially extend the stay for up to one year on the same visa.

Thailand Business Visa

For Indian citizens engaging in business activities or seeking employment in Thailand, the Non-Immigrant B Visa is a crucial first step. Beginning with a 90-day single entry, it caters to those initiating businesses or employment, with the potential to extend to a 1-year multiple-entry visa, accompanied by a work permit, sponsored by a Thai entity.

Thailand Marriage Visa

Indian nationals married to Thai citizens can pursue the Thailand Marriage Visa, which facilitates a pathway to residency. Starting with 90 days, it can be extended to one year and is renewable annually. This visa supports the familial and professional lives of Indian citizens in cross-national marriages, providing stability within Thailand.

Thailand Retirement Visa

Tailored for Indian citizens aged 50 and above who wish to retire in Thailand, this visa requires proof of financial stability. It allows an initial 90-day stay, extendable to a year, and is designed for retirees not seeking employment, offering a serene long-term residency option, renewable annually.

Thailand Elite Visa

The Thailand Elite Visa presents an exclusive long-term residency solution for affluent Indian citizens, offering validity periods ranging from 5 to 20 years. Managed by the Thailand Privilege Card Company Limited, this visa simplifies the immigration process, eliminates the need for 90-day reporting, and grants multiple entry privileges along with a suite of exclusive benefits. It's perfectly suited for individuals desiring a prolonged and opulent stay in Thailand.

By familiarizing yourself with these visa options and preparing the necessary documentation, Indian citizens can facilitate a seamless entry into Thailand. Siam Legal provides expert advice and assistance throughout the visa application process, ensuring a hassle-free experience. Contact us for any guidance you may need.

For the information about requirements for other types of non-immigrant visa and for other purposes not listed above, kindly contact the Royal Thai embassy or consulate.

Thai Embassy, India
56-N, Nyaya Marg
Chanakyapuri
New Delhi, India 110021

Phone:
+91-11 2611-5678
+91-11 2611-8103
+91-11 2611-8104

Fax:
+91-11 2688-3235
+91-11 2687-2029

Email:
thaidel@mfa.go.th

Website:
www.thaiemb.org.in

Is there any grounds or factors for my application (for extension to stay longer than 15 days) to get denied or approved?
The result of your request for visa on arrival extension is at the discretion of officer from the immigration bureau. Generally, you cannot file an application of extension to stay except in special cases such as illness which can prevent you to travel, etc.

I have obtained a visa on arrival. I am applying for an extension but the date of expiry in the visa is no longer visible/ readable/ has not been included. What do I do to fix this?
In this case, please bring your passport to the Visa Division, Department of Consular Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Chaengwattana Road in Bangkok. If the visa is genuine, you can obtain any corrections or amendments of visa there.

How do I prove that I have the enough funds?
It can be either in the form of cash or credit card.

What kind of visa debit card can I use?
This must be confirmed with the bank if your account with them is recognized in Thailand.

I want to get married in Thailand. Right now, I am still in India. What visa do I need?
You have to apply for a long-term visa first before getting married in Thailand. Please contact your Royal Thai Embassy in India regarding this matter.

I am an Indian and I just finished my study in Bangkok. Now I want to work with a company in Chiang Mai. Do I need to do anything?
You need to apply for a change of visa status, and apply for a Work Permit. You are therefore recommended to consult with the Immigration Office and the Department of Employment accordingly.

I lost my passport yesterday. What should I do?
First, you need to go to a police station to report that you lost your passport. Then you need to go to your Embassy in Bangkok for an issuance of new passport or temporary travel document. Finally, you need to bring the new passport or travel document to the Immigration Office for an endorsement. You need to apply for a new visa on your new passport before coming to Thailand next time.

Is the requirement to get a visa on arrival the same for an Indian who is below 19 years of age?
Please contact your Royal Thai Embassy in India regarding this matter.