Thailand Expands e-Visa Program to 59 Countries Worldwide

Thailand has significantly expanded its e-Visa program, now available at 59 embassies and consulates globally. This move simplifies the visa application process, allowing travelers to apply online. Learn about eligibility, requirements, and upcoming changes like the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)
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Thailand has expanded its electronic visa (e-Visa) system, making it easier for travellers to apply for visas online. This new development allows tourists from 59 embassies and consulates worldwide to submit their visa applications online, eliminating the need for in-person visits to Thai embassies or consulates.

What is a Thailand e-Visa?

An e-visa is an electronic visa, that allows you to skip the embassy or consulate visit. You simply submit your application online, upload the required documents, and pay the visa fee. Once approved, you’ll receive your e-visa via email.

Broader Reach of Thailand’s e-Visa

Initially, the e-visa was available in only 23 countries, but the expanded service now covers consular offices in 39 countries across five continents. This includes countries in North America, Europe, Asia, Latin America, Africa, and Oceania.

The new system makes it easier for travellers in these regions to apply for a Thailand visa online via the official e-Visa platform at www.thaievisa.go.th.

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Who is eligible for a Thailand e-Visa?

Citizens of 59 countries can now apply for a Thailand e-Visa. This includes popular destinations like the United States, Canada, most European countries, and many Asian nations.

Thailand e-Visa Eligibility and Requirements

If you’re planning to apply for a Thailand e-Visa, here are the key eligibility requirements:

  1. Eligible Countries: The e-Visa is available for nationals from various countries where Thai embassies and consulates offer this service.
  2. Valid Passport: Applicants must hold a valid passport with at least six months of validity from the intended date of entry into Thailand.
  3. Travel Purpose: The e-Visa is typically available for purposes such as tourism, business, medical treatment, or visiting friends and family.
  4. Application Platform: All e-Visa applications must be submitted through the official website www.thaievisa.go.th.
  5. Processing Time: It usually takes 3-5 business days for the e-visa to be processed, so plan ahead.
  6. Visa Fees: Fees may vary based on the applicant’s nationality and the type of visa requested.

Applying for the Thailand e-Visa offers a faster, more convenient alternative to traditional in-person applications, helping travellers avoid lengthy wait times at embassies and consulates.

Also Read: Thailand E-Visa On Arrival (E-VOA): How to Apply, Documents Required, Visa Fees And More

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Streamlined Application Process for Thailand e-Visa

E-Visa applicants are no longer required to submit passports and supporting documents in person at the Royal Thai Embassy/Consulate-General.

It is important to note that you are only able to apply if you are currently not in Thailand and in the countries where e-Visa services are available.

After the e-Visa application has been approved, a confirmation e-mail will be sent to applicants, which can be printed out for presentation to airlines and Thai immigration officials when traveling to Thailand.

What are the benefits of using a Thailand e-Visa?

  • Convenience: Apply from the comfort of your home.
  • Time-saving: Skip the embassy or consulate lines.
  • Efficiency: Track your application status online.

Alternative Entry Options

For citizens of 93 countries, Thailand offers a visa exemption allowing a stay of up to 60 days. This visa-free stay can be extended for an additional 30 days within Thailand.

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Visa Exemptions and Future ETA System

As of July 2024, Thailand grants visa exemptions to citizens of 93 countries and territories. These visitors can stay up to 60 days without a visa, with the option to extend their stay for an additional 30 days while in Thailand.

In addition, Thailand plans to introduce an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system by 2025 for visa-exempt travellers, although no specific launch date has been confirmed yet.

Full List of e-Visa Locations

The following regions have Thai embassies and consulates where the e-visa service is available:

List of Embassies and Consulates for Thailand e-visa
RegionCountryCity
North AmericaCanadaOttawa, Vancouver
United StatesChicago, Los Angeles, New York, Washington D.C.
Latin AmericaBrazilBrasilia
ChileSantiago
EuropeAustriaVienna
BelgiumBrussels
Czech RepublicPrague
DenmarkCopenhagen
GermanyBerlin, Frankfurt, Munich
FinlandHelsinki
FranceParis
GreeceAthens
HungaryBudapest
ItalyRome
NetherlandsThe Hague
NorwayOslo
PolandWarsaw
PortugalLisbon
RomaniaBucharest
SpainMadrid
SwedenStockholm
SwitzerlandBern
United KingdomLondon
AfricaSouth AfricaPretoria
AsiaCambodiaPhnom Penh
ChinaChengdu, Guangzhou, Hong Kong, Kunming, Nanning, Beijing, Qingdao, Shanghai, Xiamen, Xi’an
East TimorDili
KazakhstanAstana
MalaysiaKota Bharu, Kuala Lumpur, Penang
South KoreaSeoul
Sri LankaColombo
VietnamHanoi, Ho Chi Minh
Middle EastBahrainManama
EgyptCairo
QatarDoha
Saudi ArabiaJeddah, Riyadh
TurkeyAnkara
OceaniaAustraliaCanberra, Sydney
New ZealandWellington

Final Words

With this expansion, Thailand is solidifying its position as a global tourism hub, providing easier access for travellers from around the world to experience its vibrant culture, scenic landscapes, and rich history.

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Manish Khandelwal
Manish Khandelwal

Manish Khandelwal, a travel-tech enthusiast with over a decade of experience in the travel industry. Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Travelobiz.com, he's passionate about writing.

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