Getting Visas to Thailand

A Tourist Visa is issued for those who wish to enter Thailand for pleasure and other tourism activities. It has a validity of 30 days and the holder is allowed to stay in the country for a maximum of 60 days. Documents required include passport with validity of at least 6 months, filled out visa application, a recent photograph, air tickets and pocket money of 20,000 Baht per person or 40,000 Baht per family. The current fee for a Tourist Visa is US$25. Thailand also offers passport holders of some countries to enter the country without visa and stay for 90 days.

For Non-Immigrant Visa applications, there are different types:

• Business Visa (B)
• Diplomatic Visa (D)
• Education Visa (ED)
• Investor Visa (IM) is given for aliens building a company under the Board of Investment (BOI)
• Participation in an officially sporting event (S)
• Mass Media Visa and for other press representatives (M)
• Missionary Work Visa (R)
• Scientific research or training Visa (RS)

Generally, a 90 days Non-Immigrant Visa can be applied through the Royal Thai Embassy or the Consulate in your country.

A Permanent Residence Visa is issued on the other hand for those who desire to stay and live in Thailand permanently. With this type of Visa, the holder does not need to apply for any extension anymore. There are many advantages in having a Permanent Residence such as applying for naturalization in accordance with the Thai law; granting of Thai nationality to children born in Thailand; apply for permanent residence or extension of stay and much more.