There are a few steps to apply for a Thailand visa. It is recommended to work with a company that can help organize the paperwork, translate forms and cut through the red tape.
Some Thai embassies have rolled out online systems through which they process a variety of visa types.
Single Entry Tourist Visa
Travelers entering Thailand on a Single Entry Tourist Visa must present a valid passport that has at least 6 months of validity and 2 empty pages. They will also have to pay a fee of 2,000 THB upon arrival at Passport Control.
Travel Insurance for Visa on Arrival Travelers
We recommend purchasing a comprehensive travel insurance policy for your trip to Thailand, including medical evacuation. Having proof of coverage will help speed up your passage through passport control and may protect you in the event of an emergency.
Generally, travelers with ordinary passports from 64 countries and territories can enter the country without a visa under the bilateral agreement visa exemption scheme. As of October 2021, the normal 30 day visa exempt entry length was resumed. However, a high degree of caution is still advised as separatist insurgents periodically perpetrate criminally and politically motivated attacks in the southern provinces of Narathiwat, Pattani, Songkhla, and Yala, and martial law remains in place.
90-Day Short-Term Non-Immigrant Visa
The 90-Day Rule is a guideline that can be used by immigration officers to determine whether an alien in nonimmigrant status has misrepresented their purpose of travel. It can also be used to determine whether an individual is eligible for permanent residence.
Generally, the rule requires that a person in temporary visa status, such as B1, B2, F, J, Q, or TN, must show substantial ties to their home country. These ties can include investments, real estate properties, bonds, and bank accounts. The person must also prove that they intend to return to their home country after their trip is completed.
The rules can be complicated and immigration officials are able to challenge any claim that you have violated your visa status. If you have questions about the 90 Day Rule or any other visa related issue, contact the experienced team at Scott D. Pollock & Associates, P.C. for a free consultation. We can help you navigate the intricacies of the US visa system and ensure your rights are protected.
Multiple Entry Tourist Visa
The Multiple Entry Tourist Visa allows you to enter and exit the country as many times as you like, but you can only stay for 60 days on each visit. If you want to extend your stay, you must do this in person at a Thai immigration office before your original visa expires.
The visa is only valid for tourism, leisure, or medical purposes and cannot be used to earn income or study long-term. The visa is not available for foreigners who have already entered the country on a different type of visa or work permit.
The requirements for this visa can change quickly, so it is best to enlist the services of a Visa Assistance Agent who can confirm your documents meet current immigration standards and arrange your appointment with the appropriate Thai embassy on your behalf. Boundless’ Travel Visa Service is a convenient option, providing online filing, 1:1 interview coaching and scheduling, and support if your visa application is denied.
Permanent Residence Permit
For people with the financial means to make Thailand their home, there are permanent residence permits. These allow you to remain in the country with unlimited travel privileges for a year at a time. There are a few requirements you must meet to qualify for one of these permits. You must show that you are committed to making the Kingdom your main base of operations and have invested in the country’s economy. You must also have a good educational background and have loyally worked in the country for at least three years.
The process begins with submitting the proper documents to the immigration bureau in Bangkok. Once you’ve done that, you must attend an interview. This consists of a semi-formal conversation (conducted in Thai) with the officials that are reviewing your application. It’s important to be fluent enough in the language to communicate clearly. Our firm can help you prepare for this interview. It’s a crucial step on the road to a permanent residency in Thailand.
