Thailand, as you know, is popular for its stunning beaches. Not only this, but it is also known for its bustling cities and vibrant culture. For Indian’s seeking a memorable holiday experience abroad, Thailand is turning out to be one of the important destinations. From the tranquil islands of Krabi and Phuket to the bustling streets of Bangkok, the country offers a wide range of experiences ideal for every kind of traveller. If you are planning a trip to this country from India, you should gain some useful details about the Thailand visa for Indians. The purpose of this blog post is to let you know everything about the same:
Thailand Visa – An Introduction
Thailand is one of the 11 international destinations that provide both e-Visa and Visa on Arrival Facilities to Indians. The procedure to get a Thailand visa for Indians is straightforward. Based on the duration and purpose of the visit, different visa options are available.
Recently, in 2024, the country offered temporary visa exemptions for Indians. This facility was offered for 7 months, and tourists from India were allowed to enter Thailand without any visa and stay for 30 days. However, this was a temporary offer extended to Indian tourists by Thailand.
You might be planning to visit the country to explore its rich cultural heritage. Otherwise, you might be a foodie interested in experiencing the delectable Thailand cuisine. Not only for these reasons, you might be planning a trip to the country to simply relax on its pristine beaches. In any case, knowing about the requirements to obtain Thailand via for Indians is important. Gaining this knowledge is the first step you can take towards achieving an unforgettable Thailand vacation.
Types of Thailand Visas for Indians
Not only a tourist visa, you can find different options when it comes to obtaining a Thailand visa for Indians. So, knowing about the types of Thailand visas will let you choose a suitable type of visa:
Visa on Arrival for Indians
Are you planning to spend no more than 15 days in Thailand? In this case, you can get a visa on arrival in Thailand. You might wonder what to do if you wish to extend your stay. In this case, you will have to apply for an extension of stay with the Immigration Bureau.
Tourist Visa
A Tourist Visa is the best choice if you plan to spend more than 15 days in Thailand. You can stay up to 60 days in the country with this Thailand visa for Indians. Also, when you have this visa, you can apply for an extension for 30 more days.
Transit Visa
Are you planning a trip to some other country and have a stop over in Thailand for more than 12 hours? If so, you will have to get a Transit visa. Athletes taking part in sports events can get this type of Thailand Visa for Indians. Similarly, this type of visa will suit captains, pilots and their teams steering their vehicles to stations or ports in Thailand.
Employment/Business Visa
Are you planning a professional trip to Thailand? You might be planning as a business owner or an employee of a large organization. In this case, you will have to obtain an employment or a business visa. With this visa, you can engage in business activities, take up employment or attend meetings in Thailand. This visa will be valid for 90 days. However, if required, the Immigration Bureau Office may extend this visa for up to one year.
Study Visa
Let us consider that you plan a visit to Thailand to take up a short course. Otherwise, you might be planning to attend workshops. In both cases, you will have to get a study visa.
Media and Film Crew Visa
Among the different types of Thailand visas for Indians, this visa is suitable for individuals working in media. Also, people who are part of a film crew visiting Thailand to capture a film, advertisement or motion picture will have to apply and get media and film crew visas.
Religious Activities Visa
With approval from the appropriate government department, you can participate in missionary work or other religious activities in Thailand. When you visit to participate in these activities in Thailand, you should get a Religious Activities Visa.
Research and Science Visa
For those planning a visit to Thailand from India for science and research activities, the suitable visa is the Research and Science Visa. With this visa, a person can stay in Thailand for up to 90 days.
Staying with Family Visa
If you have a Thai family or non-Thai family living in Thailand, and you plan to stay with them for a few days, you should apply for this visa. This type of visa is suitable for dependents or the family of diplomatic officials or officers based in Thailand.
Smart Visa
If you wish to work or invest in Thailand and if you are a highly skilled startup business owner, executive, investor or professional, this visa is suitable for you. With this visa, you will get multiple entry benefits. Also, with it, you can stay in Thailand for a long time.
Long Stay Visa
Often referred to as the Retirement Visa, this visa is suitable for people over 50 years with an interest to spend an extended period in Thailand. This visa permits you to stay up to one year in the country, and you can renew it annually.
Non-Immigrant Visa
This type of Thailand visa for Indians covers different purposes. For instance, it covers family visits, volunteering, research and education. Based on the purpose of the visit, it is of different kinds like:
- Non-Immigrant F Visa
- O Visa
- ED Visa
- O-X Visa
- O-A Visa
Courtesy Visa
This visa is applicable to individuals who got an invitation from the Royal Thai Government.
Fees
The fee for the Thailand visa for Indians varies based on the type of visa you are applying. Also, the fee varies based on the duration of your stay. For Indians, the Visa on arrival fee is INR 4472.
You should know about the visa price for Indians so that you can plan your budget accordingly. Even though I have provided a table to denote the cost of different types of Thailand visas for Indians, it is better to check the latest fee for hassle-free visa process:
| S. No. | Type of Visa | Fee |
| 1. | Study Visa | 2900 Baht |
| 2. | Medical Visa for more than six months up to 1 year stay in Thailand for medical reasons | 4400 Baht |
| 3. | Medical visa for up to 6 months | 2900 Baht |
| 4. | Business Visa for up to 5 years | 9000 Baht |
| 5. | Business Visa for up to 1 year | 4400 Baht |
| 6. | Tourist Visa for up to 5 Years | 7200 Baht |
| 7. | Tourist Visa for up to 1 Year | 3600 Baht |
| 8. | Thailand Transit Visa | 800 Baht |
How to Apply for a Thailand Visa for Indians?
Here are the steps to follow to apply for a Thailand visa for Indians:
1. Prepare the Documents
Before you begin the application process, ensure that you have all the required documents. For instance, you should have travel insurance, flight tickets, bank statements, accommodation details, passport-size photographs, a Thailand visa application form and of course, a valid Indian passport.
2. Complete the Application Form
Now that you have all the required documents ready, accurately fill out the application form for the visa. Double-check the details you have filled up to avoid any mistakes that may delay the application process.
3. Take Copies of Your Documents
Take photocopies of all your documents and submit them along with the application.
4. Visit the Thai Consulate or Embassy
To submit your application, visit the Thai consulate or embassy in your jurisdiction. If you plan to get e-visa, you can submit your application online.
5. Wait During the Processing Time
To process your Thai visa application, it will take at least 5-7 working days for the Thai authorities. So, wait for a week after submitting your visa application.
6. Collect Your Visa
You will be notified once your visa application is approved. After this, you will have to go to the embassy or consulate to get your passport with visa stamp.
When to Apply for the Thailand Visa for Indians?
- When you opt for visa on arrival, you may have to wait in long queues. Particularly, it will take time if you are visiting Thailand during a peak season. To avoid long queues, you can consider applying for a pre-approved visa.
- If you are applying for a tourist visa, it is better to submit your application at least a month in advance. Only then, delays, if any will be handled comfortably.
- In case you need a e-visa, it is better to apply at least 2-3 weeks before your flight ticket date for Thailand.
- For work and business visa, it is better to apply 2-3 months in advance.
- For retirement and education visa, you can apply 2-3 months in advance.
Conclusion
Applying for a Thailand visa for Indians is a straight forward process. When you apply on time following the correct procedures, you can avoid last-minute hassles. By selecting the right visa type and planning things ahead, you can get a memorable and seamless trip to Thailand.
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