What do I need in addition to my passport?

Upon arrival, those entering Thailand under the Tourist Visa Exemption scheme, can be required by Thai Immigration to show the documents below at the port of entry before granting entry:

• Proof of adequate finances for the duration of stay in Thailand i.e. traveler’s cheque or cash equivalent to 10,000 Baht per person and 20,000 Baht per family.
• Proof of onward travel (confirmed air, train, bus or boat tickets) to leave Thailand within 30 days of the arrival date.

Thai Immigration may or may not ask to see this proof upon arrival. However, airlines often will deny boarding a flight to Thailand without a Visa unless the passenger has proof of onward travel within permitted stay period for arrival without a Visa.

How many days am I permitted to stay when entering Visa Exempt and can it be extended?

Thai Immigration will grant a permitted stay of 30 days which includes the day of arrival in the calculation.  An application for an extension of stay for an additional 30 days can be obtained once from a Thai Immigration Office within Thailand. The 30 days will be added to the initial 30 days, therefore an application for extension can be made before the Admitted Until date. The fee is 1,900 baht.

How many times can I enter Thailand using Visa Exempt status?

If entering at an Airport, there is no limit on the number of times you can enter. HOWEVER, a person may enter Thailand Visa Exempt only 2 times in a calendar year if entering at a land border.

CAUTION: Thai Immigration has stepped up efforts to prevent abuse of the 30 day visa exemption entry. Thai immigration authorities will review carefully travelers who have received permission to stay for 30 days through the visa exemption policy, and who subsequently seek to reenter Thailand repeatedly for an additional 30 days using the Visa Exempt method. If immigration officials think that individuals are entering Thailand to reside for an extended time or indefinitely, rather than seeking entry for tourism, such individuals may be denied entry.