The e-visa system is not required for tourists from 93 visa-exempt countries, who can continue enjoying visa-free entry to Thailand for stays of up to 60 days. Photo Credit: Adobe Stock/korrakot sittivash
After months of speculation, Thailand is set to streamline its visa application process with the global rollout of its electronic visa (e-visa) system. Starting 1 January 2025, travellers requiring a visa to enter Thailand can apply online via the official e-visa platform (www.thaievisa.go.th), covering 94 Thai embassies and consulates worldwide.
Announcing the development on December 17, Worawoot Pongprapapant, Director-General of Consular Affairs at Thailand’s Foreign Ministry, highlighted the system’s focus on improving accessibility and efficiency for non-tourist visa categories, such as work and student visas.
Who needs the e-visa?
The e-visa system is not required for tourists from 93 visa-exempt countries, who can continue enjoying visa-free entry to Thailand for stays of up to 60 days. This includes travellers from ASEAN nations and major markets like China, India, Australia, the UK, and the US.
Instead, the e-visa targets other travellers who require a visa for extended stays or specific purposes. Its user-friendly design allows applicants to complete the process online and receive confirmation via email. Travellers simply print the confirmation and present it to their airline and Thai immigration authorities upon arrival.