Visa Information
Stay updated on Thailand’s visa information, requirements and procedures with our in-depth guide, covering tourist, education, non-immigrant, marriage, Thailand elite, retirement visas, Thai permanent residency, and the Long-Term Resident (LTR) visa program. Navigate the complexities of obtaining a visa to ensure a smooth and hassle-free process. Equip yourself with the knowledge and resources necessary to live, work, study, or retire in Thailand. Get your most updated visa information at The Thaiger.
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Stars, stripes and tourist gripes as Trump hikes visa fee kick off
Tourists, locals, and ex-pats in Thailand are being warned to brace for a wallet-busting new visa fee, after Donald Trump slapped a stinging US$250 charge on would-be visitors, just in time to cash in on the flood of sports fans heading to America. The controversial visa integrity fee has sparked outrage, with critics accusing the US president of using global…
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Viet’s all, folks: Thailand left in digital ID dust by Vietnam
Thailand has been caught napping again, as Vietnam surges ahead with yet another bold move to woo foreigners, slashing red tape and rolling out sleek new digital IDs for its growing expat population. On July 1, Hanoi launched a 50-day campaign to hand out free electronic identification to foreigners living, working, or studying in the country, and it’s already being…
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Vietnamese passport dreams are made of this, leaving Thailand behind
Vietnam has torn up the red tape for foreigners with local family, making it easier than ever to bag a Vietnamese passport, no lingo, no money, and no five-year wait required, leaving Thailand behind. Foreigners married to Vietnamese citizens, or with family roots in the country, can now apply for citizenship without needing to speak the language, prove they can…
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The 5 common mistakes seen in DTV applications
Applying for a Digital Nomad Visa (DTV) in Thailand can be a challenging process, and many applicants make mistakes that lead to delays or rejections. To help you avoid these common pitfalls, we’ve outlined the 5 most common mistakes that applicants make during the DTV application process. Keep these in mind to ensure a smoother application experience. Common mistakes seen…
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How to complete your 90-day residency report for long-term visa holders in Thailand
Long-term visa holders in Thailand, including DTV visa holders, must submit a 90-day residency report to Thai Immigration. This report updates authorities on your address every 90 days, even if your address hasn’t changed. The rule applies to most long-term visa holders, including those on retirement, business, marriage, or education visas. Failing to report on time can lead to fines…
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Chaos at Thai Embassies: digital nomads stranded by DTV visa delays
Thailand’s new Destination Thailand Visa (DTV), introduced to welcome digital nomads, is off to a rocky start, leaving many applicants stranded across Southeast Asia amid delays, confusion, and inconsistent embassy procedures. Foreigners in Cambodia, Laos, and Malaysia, many of whom travelled specifically to apply for the DTV, are facing extended wait times, backlogged appointments, and shifting requirements that have turned…
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Key visa and immigration changes in Thailand in 2025
Thailand is updating its travel and immigration system this year to better serve global travellers, digital nomads, retirees, and investors. Key changes in the immigration system include the expansion of the Thai E-Visa system, the introduction of the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC), and new visa categories like the Destination Thailand Visa. These updates aim to simplify entry processes, improve…
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5 years on a DTV visa: Discovering Thailand through cooking
Spending five years in Thailand on a Digital Nomad (DTV) visa offers a unique opportunity to experience the country beyond the usual tourist attractions. One of the best ways to connect with Thai culture is through its food. Learning to cook traditional dishes, visiting local markets, and sharing meals with locals and expats create unforgettable experiences. Discovering Thailand through its…
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Snubbed middle-income retirees look beyond Thailand to SE Asia
For decades, Thailand has been the quintessential destination for retirees seeking an affordable, beautiful, and culturally rich new home. With its golden beaches, vibrant cuisine, and famously welcoming population, the Land of Smiles has lured hundreds of thousands of Westerners to spend their golden years soaking up its tropical hospitality. Yet, a quiet transformation is taking place beneath the palm…
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Denied a visa extension in Thailand? Here’s how travel insurance can help
Denied a visa extension in Thailand? It can be a stressful and confusing experience. Immigration rules are strict, and even a small mistake, like missing documents, overstaying a visa, or not showing enough funds, can lead to a denial. If this happens, you may need to leave the country quickly or face unexpected costs. This is where travel insurance becomes…
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Bangkok to Kuala Lumpur direct train set to resume later in 2025
Travellers, visa runners and railway enthusiasts have a reason to celebrate: the long-awaited resumption of the direct train service between Bangkok, Thailand, and Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, is set to return by the end of 2025. This move is expected to enhance regional connectivity, promote sustainable travel, and boost tourism and commerce between the two Southeast Asian capitals. Kuala Lumpur has…
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Why it’s so hard to open a Thai bank account on a tourist visa
For many foreigners considering long-term residence in Thailand, one of the first bureaucratic barriers they encounter is the challenge of opening a Thai bank account. This seemingly straightforward step becomes a complicated puzzle for those arriving on a tourist visa or visa exemption. Ironically, the very thing required to secure a long-term stay, a Thai bank account with sufficient funds,…
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Financial requirements for the Thailand tourist visa in 2025
Thailand is once again requiring travellers to show proof of funds when applying for a Thailand tourist visa, as part of a broader update to its immigration policies. The move comes alongside the introduction of the new Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) and ongoing discussions about shortening visa-free stays. If you’re planning to visit Thailand this year, here’s everything you…
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Everything you need to know about E-Visa in Thailand
Travelling to Thailand will be easier with the new Thai E-visa system. From January 1, people from almost any country can apply for a visa online. You don’t need to visit an embassy or consulate anymore. The process is fast, simple, and all done through a website. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the Thailand…
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Foreign travellers told to log on 3 days before Thailand arrival
Foreign travellers planning a trip to Thailand are being told to get online and fill in Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) three days before they arrive or risk being turned away at the border, as the country ditches its old-school paper arrival cards in favour of a slick new digital system. From May 1, all international visitors, whether arriving by air,…
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Thai me down: Bangkok opens new visa expat and investor hub
Thailand is making moves to woo foreign investors and expats, rolling out a brand-new one-stop shop for investment and visa services in the heart of Bangkok. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra cut the ribbon on Monday at the grand opening of the Thailand Investment and Expat Services Centre (TIESC), housed in the sleek One Bangkok building in Pathum Wan. Located on…
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True Digital Park and BOI join forces to propel foreign investment to Thailand
True Digital Park, the largest tech and startup hub in ASEAN, is moving forward to drive Thailand to become a destination for foreign investors and entrepreneurs, aiming to boost Thailand’s Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). Highlighting its comprehensive startup and tech entrepreneur ecosystem, True Digital Park joined forces with the Board of Investment of Thailand (BOI) to attract foreign investors by…
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Overview of Thailand’s Visas (2025)
For many, Thailand remains steadfast on the must-visit list, the nation also known as the Land of Smiles, continues to be one of the most popular destinations globally. But just as the charm of Thailand has captured the hearts of people worldwide, it’s safe to say that the different visa options can leave visitors scratching their heads at times. Let’s…
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Your guide to obtaining a work visa in Thailand
We all know that Thailand is a tourist magnet, with more than 35 million people visiting the country in 2024. But did you know that it’s also a hotspot for digital nomads, retirees , and corporate professionals looking to make a living? If you’re one of them, then there’s one crucial thing you need to sort out, and that is…
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Use your DTV Visa to open a bank account with FITFAC
Many expats holding a DTV Visa may encounter difficulties when trying to open a Thai bank account, as almost every bank refuses to provide account services for DTV Visa holders. The primary concern for banks is that accounts opened by foreigners could be used for illegal financial activities such as online gambling, romance scams, or even money laundering. These policies…
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Marriage-based US Green Card guide for Thai citizens
Wondering how to obtain a marriage-based U.S. Green Card as a Thai citizen? The marriage-based U.S. Green Card process is quite tedious, and it would be wise to familiarise yourself with it prior to beginning your application. This guide aims to help Thai nationals begin the marriage-based U.S. Green Card application process. We’ll cover essential information, such as marriage-based U.S.…
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Smooth travel to Belgium and the Netherlands: Visa tips & tricks!
Make Belgium and the Netherlands your next destination with the right visa in hand. Explore the iconic tulip fields, cruise through Amsterdam’s scenic canals, or stroll through the historic streets of Bruges. Don’t forget to enjoy some authentic Belgian chocolate along the way. You can start your visa application today and get ready for your journey! Can’t wait to visit?…
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What is the 5 year visa for the digital nomad in Thailand?
The Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) is a great option for digital nomads, remote workers, and freelancers who want to stay in Thailand for a long time. This multiple-entry visa is valid for five years, allowing stays of up to 180 days per entry, with the option to extend. While it does not serve as a work permit, it lets remote…
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VFS Global warns Thai travellers of rising visa scam threats
VFS Global cautioned Thai travellers about visa scams, urging early applications due to increasing outbound travel. The organisation, a leader in visa outsourcing and technology services, hosted an awareness event in Bangkok. Diplomats from Austria, the Czech Republic, Germany, Hungary, Norway, and Switzerland attended to address the growing threat of visa fraud. As visa applications surge to record levels, scammers…
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What’s new with Thailand’s LTR Visa? Here’s what you need to know about the update
Have you been dreaming of living and working in Thailand? If yes, there’s never been a better time than today, as the Thai government just updated the qualifications, criteria, and conditions for the Long-Term Resident (LTR) Visa programme. Thanks to these changes, the visa is now more inclusive, family-friendly, and accessible than ever before. Here’s the lowdown on what’s new,…
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Thailand tourism China-ing bright with visitor boom
Hold onto your tuk tuks, folks, Thailand’s tourism scene is making a triumphant comeback, with Chinese travellers leading the charge of foreign visitors. Thanks to more lenient visa rules, and especially to Thailand’s Chinese friends, the Land of Smiles is grinning wider than ever. The South China Morning Post reported that an impressive 35.5 million international jet-setters flocked to Thailand…
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Thailand’s new e-visa system targets African tourists in travel boost
The Embassy of Thailand rolled out the e-visa carpet for nine African nations on January 1 in a further bid to boost tourism. The popular e-visa programme is designed to bolster security and streamline the application process, as reported by VisaGuide.World. By simplifying the visa procedure, Thailand hopes to lure more visitors, vital for its thriving tourism sector. While Thailand’s…
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Everything you need to know about SMART Visa in Thailand
If you’re thinking about working, starting a business, or simply enjoying the perks of living in Thailand, the SMART Visa might be the golden ticket you’ve been searching for. Designed for skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, and investors, the SMART Visa makes it easier for foreigners to live and work in Thailand while contributing to the country’s growing economy. The SMART Visa…
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10 things you need to know before living in Thailand long-term
Living in Thailand has undoubtedly become an increasingly popular option for foreigners seeking a different lifestyle filled with beautiful landscapes and a rich cultural experience. Thailand and its blend of tradition and modernity offer a unique lifestyle for everyone, whether you are drawn to the busy city life of Bangkok or the beautiful scenery of nature in the north and…
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Thai visa woes: From easy as pie to digital fly, book before you buy
Once upon a time, jetting off for a Thai visa was as easy as pie. A quick border dash to a nearby country, pop into a consulate in Laos, Malaysia, or Vietnam, and voilà ! You’d be done and dusted, ready for an evening drink by the Mekong River. Ah, the good old days! But hold onto your hats, because the…
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Thai visa shake-up: Southeast Asia consulates switch to e-visa only
Getting a Thai visa in Southeast Asia is about to become a high-tech affair. Starting next week, several Thai consulates across the region will be switching entirely to online e-visa applications, leaving traditional walk-ins a thing of the past. In a surprise move, consulates in Vietnam (Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City), Malaysia (Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Kota Bharu), and Cambodia…
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Kickstart your DTV Visa journey: Train in Muay Thai, stay in Thailand
Thailand has just introduced the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV), an exciting new option that allows expats and travellers to stay for up to five years without the hassle of frequent renewals. Ideal for those wanting to dive deep into Thai culture, the DTV offers three main qualifying routes: Workcation – Tailored for digital nomads, freelancers, and remote workers. Soft Power – Focus on activities…
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How can foreigners become Thai citizens?
Some people might have thought that getting Thai citizenship is difficult. Just to be clear, it can be complicated, but there are pathways that you go through and become a Thai citizen. For many who have made Thailand their home, this step is a significant milestone. It signifies not just a legal status, but a deeper bond with the country,…
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A guide to obtaining a marriage visa in Thailand
So you’ve fallen head over heels for a Thai citizen, and now you can’t wait to start your life together in the amazing Land of Smiles? The Thai Marriage Visa is your golden ticket to spending your life in Thailand with your better half. But is obtaining Thai Marriage Visa a complicated process? What should you prepare to obtain it…
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Retiree’s paradise or visa maze? Thailand’s options but no land grabs
Thailand is a popular choice for foreign retirees, offering several visa types including annual extensions, a five to 20 year Elite visa, and a 10-year Long Term Residence (LTR) visa. However, none of these options allow direct land ownership, nor do they guarantee a pathway to permanent residency or citizenship. Foreigners can purchase condominiums but this typically doesn’t come with visa…
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Business ties: Thailand extends visa-free stay for Hongkongers
Thailand’s extension of visa-free visits for Hong Kong residents is expected to bolster business relations and entice more visitors from the financial hub, despite a recent murder-suicide incident in Bangkok, according to industry leaders. The tragic event, involving six people, has not deterred travel plans, they emphasised. Anthony Lam Sai-ho, Executive Deputy Chairman of the Federation of Hong Kong Industries, praised…
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Everything you need to enter Thailand in 2024
Planning a 2024 trip to Thailand? Staying updated on the latest Thailand requirements is essential for a smooth travel experience. From visa regulations to health guidelines, understanding Thailand’s entry criteria can seem challenging, but with the right information, it’s manageable Therefore, strap in as we dissect the details and provide you with reliable and current data to make your trip…