Thailand, often referred to as the “Land of Smiles,” is a favorite tourist destination for Indians. Known for its pristine beaches, vibrant nightlife, rich culture, and delicious cuisine, it’s no wonder why so many Indian travelers flock to Thailand each year. One of the most convenient ways for Indian nationals to enter Thailand for short stays is through the Visa On Arrival (VOA) program. For Indians, Visa is free right now in 2025. Make sure you have return ticket within 15 days from arrival, Hotel booking and enough money for expenses. And two passport size photoes.
1. What is the Thailand Visa On Arrival (VOA)?
The Thailand Visa On Arrival is a facility provided by the Thai government that allows citizens of certain countries, including India, to obtain a visa upon arrival at designated entry points in Thailand. This visa is typically issued for a short duration, usually up to 15 days, and is ideal for tourists who wish to visit Thailand for a brief period without going through the full visa application process in advance.
2. Eligibility Criteria for Indian Citizens
Indian passport holders can apply for a Visa On Arrival under certain conditions. Here are the key eligibility requirements:
- Nationality: Indian citizens with a valid Indian passport can apply for VOA.
- Purpose of Visit: The visa is for tourism purposes only. Business or employment-related visits require a different type of visa.
- Duration of Stay: You can stay in Thailand for up to 15 days with a VOA. If you want to stay longer, you would need to apply for a different type of visa.
- Entry Points: VOA is available at 48 designated points of entry, including international airports and land borders.
- Traveling by Air: The VOA is available at international airports in Thailand, such as Suvarnabhumi Airport (Bangkok), Phuket Airport, Chiang Mai Airport, and Krabi Airport. If you’re entering by land, you may be eligible for VOA at certain border checkpoints.
3. Required Documents for VOA
To apply for the Thailand Visa On Arrival, Indian nationals need to prepare a few documents. These documents help Thai immigration authorities verify the purpose and duration of your stay:
- Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least 30 days from your date of arrival in Thailand.
- Completed Visa Application Form: This form is available at the VOA counter upon arrival or can be downloaded from the official Thai immigration website.
- Photographs: A recent passport-sized photo (4×6 cm) is required.
- Proof of Return/Onward Travel: You must show proof of a return ticket or onward travel, demonstrating that you will leave Thailand within 15 days.
- Proof of Sufficient Funds: You need to show proof that you have at least 10,000 Thai Baht (approx. 25,000 INR) per person or 20,000 Thai Baht (approx. 50,000 INR) per family. This can be in the form of cash, a bank statement, or a credit card.
- Visa Fee: A non-refundable visa fee of approximately 2,000 Thai Baht (roughly 5,000 INR) is required to be paid at the airport upon arrival. But right now for indian, Visa is free.
4. How to Apply for Thailand Visa On Arrival
The process of applying for a Thailand Visa On Arrival for Indian nationals is fairly straightforward:
Step 1: Prepare the Required Documents
Ensure you have all the required documents ready before you land in Thailand. These include your passport, visa application form, photographs, proof of onward travel, proof of funds, and visa fee.
Step 2: Arrive at the Designated Entry Point
Once you arrive at an international airport or border checkpoint that offers the VOA service, proceed to the VOA counter. Make sure to look out for the clear signage indicating the VOA section.
Step 3: Submit Your Documents
At the VOA counter, submit all your documents to the immigration officer. This will include your completed application form and the required proofs of funds and onward travel.
Step 4: Pay the Visa Fee
Pay the visa fee of 2,000 Thai Baht. It’s recommended to carry this in cash, as some counters may not accept cards.
Step 5: Receive Your Visa
Once your application is processed, you’ll receive your Visa On Arrival, which is typically stamped on your passport. Make sure to check the details and the validity period before leaving the counter.
Step 6: Proceed to Immigration
After receiving the visa, proceed to the immigration counter, where the immigration officers will inspect your documents and may ask a few questions. If all is in order, you will be granted entry into Thailand.
5. Important Things to Know
- Extension of VOA: The Thailand Visa On Arrival cannot be extended. If you want to stay longer than 15 days, you will need to apply for a different visa before traveling to Thailand.
- Entry Points: As mentioned earlier, you can only apply for a VOA at specific entry points, including major airports like Bangkok, Phuket, and Chiang Mai. If you’re arriving by land (via Cambodia, Laos, or Malaysia), the VOA is available at land border checkpoints like Aranyaprathet, Sadao, and more.
- Travel Insurance: While not mandatory, it’s highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies during your stay in Thailand.
- Online Visa Application Option: While the VOA service is available on arrival, Thailand has also launched an e-Visa On Arrival system, which allows travelers to apply for the VOA online before departure. This option helps avoid long queues at the airport and is a convenient alternative.
6. Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Missing Documents: Ensure you have all required documents in hand. Missing documents can delay the process or result in denial of entry.
- Inadequate Funds: Make sure to carry the required amount of money or proof of sufficient funds. If you cannot show proof, you may be denied a visa.
- Overstaying: Overstaying your 15-day limit could result in hefty fines, deportation, or even a ban from entering Thailand in the future.
7. Tips for a Smooth VOA Experience
- Arrive Early: Arriving early will allow you ample time to fill out forms, pay the visa fee, and pass through immigration.
- Carry Thai Baht: While credit cards are widely accepted in Thailand, it’s always handy to carry Thai Baht for paying the visa fee and small expenses.
- Be Prepared for a Wait: During peak travel seasons, the VOA counters can get busy, so be prepared for long lines.
- Check Visa Requirements in Advance: Visa regulations may change from time to time. Always check the latest requirements on the official Thai embassy or immigration website before traveling.
Thailand’s Visa On Arrival (VOA) program provides an easy and convenient way for Indian nationals to explore the country for short-term stays. By ensuring you have all the required documents, following the proper procedure, and being aware of the entry requirements, you can have a smooth and enjoyable trip to this beautiful Southeast Asian destination.
So, whether you’re looking to unwind on a tropical beach, explore historic temples, or indulge in Thai cuisine, your Thai adventure is just a VOA away!
