Updated: 20 May 2026.
⚠️ Important 2026 update : Thailand visa exemption reform : May 2026
The Thai Cabinet decided on 19 May 2026 to cancel the 60-day visa-free scheme. The new policy introduces a 30-day visa exemption for 54 countries (Australia, Austria, Canada, France, Germany, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore, UK, US, etc.) and a 15-day exemption for 3 countries (Maldives, Mauritius, Seychelles). The Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) remains mandatory and replaces the paper TM6.
Effective: Cabinet decision 19 May 2026 : rollout mid-2026
Source: Thai MFA / Royal Gazette
The Thailand e-Visa system allows travelers to apply online for Thai visas through the official Thai e-Visa portal, eliminating the need to visit a consulate in person. The Tourist e-Visa (TR) costs THB 2,000 (approximately USD 57) and permits a 60-day stay with single entry. Other categories include Transit, Non-Immigrant B (business), Non-Immigrant O (family visit), and Non-Immigrant ED (education).
Key Facts
| Visa Type | e-Visa (Tourist TR, Transit TS, Non-Immigrant B/O/ED) |
| Cost | THB 2,000 (Tourist), THB 800 (Transit), THB 5,000+ (Non-Immigrant) |
| Validity | 60 days (Tourist), 30 days (Transit), 90 days (Non-Immigrant) |
| Processing Time | 5-10 business days |
| Official Website | thaievisa.go.th |
Who Needs This Visa?
Citizens of many countries can enter Thailand visa-free for 30 or 60 days depending on nationality. Travelers who wish to stay longer or who are not eligible for visa exemption must apply for an e-Visa. The e-Visa is available for applicants residing in countries where a Thai embassy or consulate provides the online service.
Application Process
- Visit the official Thai e-Visa portal at thaievisa.go.th.
- Create an account and select the visa type you need (Tourist, Transit, or Non-Immigrant).
- Fill in the application form with personal, passport, and travel details.
- Upload required documents including passport photo, passport bio page, flight itinerary, and accommodation proof.
- Pay the visa fee via credit or debit card.
- Attend a consulate appointment if required (some embassies waive this step).
- Receive your e-Visa approval via email and the e-Visa is electronically linked to your passport.
Required Documents
- Valid passport with at least 6 months remaining validity and at least 1 blank page
- Recent passport-size photograph (4x6 cm, white background)
- Confirmed flight itinerary (round trip)
- Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation letter)
- Proof of financial means (bank statement, minimum THB 20,000 for tourist visa)
- Travel insurance covering the duration of stay
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Thailand e-Visa?
The Thailand e-Visa is an electronic visa application system that allows travelers to apply for Thai visas online through the official thaievisa.go.th portal, rather than visiting a Thai embassy or consulate in person.
How much does the Thailand Tourist e-Visa cost?
The Thailand Tourist e-Visa (TR category) costs THB 2,000, approximately USD 57. Transit visas cost THB 800, and Non-Immigrant visas start from THB 5,000 depending on the category.
How long can I stay in Thailand with a Tourist e-Visa?
The Thailand Tourist e-Visa allows a stay of up to 60 days. It can be extended once at a Thai Immigration office for an additional 30 days, giving a maximum stay of 90 days.
Do I still need to visit the embassy for the Thailand e-Visa?
In most cases, the Thailand e-Visa process is entirely online. However, some Thai embassies may require applicants to submit their passport in person or attend a brief appointment after the online application is approved.