If you are planning a trip to Thailand, it is essential to determine whether you need a visa to enter the country. Thailand offers a visa on arrival program for citizens of several countries, allowing them to obtain a visa upon arrival in the country. In this article, we will take a closer look at who can get a Thai visa on arrival, how to apply for it, and the requirements for getting one.
What is a Thai Visa on Arrival?
The Thai visa on arrival is a type of visa that allows travelers from certain countries to enter Thailand without a visa, but obtain a visa upon arrival. The visa on arrival is only valid for a short stay of up to 15 days.
Who Can Get a Thai Visa on Arrival?
Citizens of 18 countries are eligible to obtain a Thai visa on arrival. These countries are:
- Andorra
- Bulgaria
- Bhutan
- China
- Cyprus
- Ethiopia
- India
- Kazakhstan
- Latvia
- Lithuania
- Maldives
- Malta
- Mauritius
- Romania
- San Marino
- Saudi Arabia
- Taiwan
- Ukraine
If you are a citizen of any of the above countries, you can apply for a visa on arrival when you arrive in Thailand. However, it is essential to note that the visa on arrival is only valid for a short stay of up to 15 days.
How to Apply for a Thai Visa on Arrival?
To apply for a Thai visa on arrival, you need to follow these simple steps:
- Fill out the visa application form: You can obtain the visa application form on the plane, at the airport, or online. It is essential to fill out the application form completely and accurately.
- Submit your documents: You will need to submit a few documents when you apply for a visa on arrival. These documents include a passport with at least six months of validity, a return ticket, and a passport-sized photograph.
- Pay the visa fee: Once you have submitted your documents and application form, you will need to pay the visa fee. The visa fee for a Thai visa on arrival is 2,000 Thai Baht (approximately $65 USD).
- Receive your visa: Once you have paid the visa fee, you will receive your visa on arrival. Make sure to keep your visa safe, as you will need to present it when you leave Thailand.
Requirements for Getting a Thai Visa on Arrival
To be eligible for a Thai visa on arrival, you must meet the following requirements:
- You must be a citizen of one of the 18 eligible countries.
- You must have a passport with at least six months of validity.
- You must have a return ticket or an onward ticket to leave Thailand.
- You must have a passport-sized photograph.
- You must pay the visa fee.
It is essential to note that the visa on arrival is only valid for a short stay of up to 15 days. If you plan to stay in Thailand for a longer period, you will need to obtain a different type of visa.
In conclusion, if you are a citizen of one of the 18 eligible countries, you can obtain a Thai visa on arrival. The visa on arrival is only valid for a short stay of up to 15 days and requires a few documents and a visa fee. Make sure to meet all the requirements and have all the necessary documents before you arrive in Thailand to avoid any issues.
