Thailand Transit Visa – Requirements, Duration and Fees

A Thailand transit visa is a great way to get around the country and see all it has to offer. Additionally, it is also a transit country for people who are moving between other countries.

As the world becomes smaller, more and more people are looking to explore new places. One of the most effective ways to accomplish this is by taking a trip through Thailand.

The application procedure for a Thailand transit visa is easy, but you must provide some documentation that proves your purpose for traveling through Thailand. 

The most common documents you must submit are your passport, airline ticket, proof of accommodation, and a letter from your destination explaining why you need to transit through Thailand. 

However, visitors who do not meet these requirements may be able to obtain a transit visa on arrival at any port of entry. 

Thus, this guide will outline the necessary steps for obtaining a transit visa and provide information about the process.

About Thailand                

The Kingdom of Thailand, also known as Siam, is an Asian country located on the Southeast Asian mainland. It shares borders with Laos to the north, Burma to the east, Malaysia to the south, and Cambodia to the southwest.

Furthermore, Thailand is home to over sixty million people and is one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations.

Thailand entices visitors with its lush green countryside, stunning tropical islands, and welcoming people. 

With a history dating back more than 3,000 years, Thailand is a cultural treasure trove with an impressive array of architecture and traditions. 

From Bangkok’s neon-lit streets to the hills of Chiang Mai, this Southeast Asian country has something for everyone to enjoy.

What is a Thailand transit visa?

A Thailand transit visa is available to foreigners who want to travel through Thailand and continue to another country. 

The visa allows the traveler to remain in Thailand for thirty days. Hence, it is not a visa to stay in Thailand indefinitely, but rather a way to move between different parts of the country. 

Transit visas are usually valid for a single entry and exit, although some may be valid for multiple entries. The transit visa must be stamped in your passport upon entry and exit from Thailand.

Importantly, holders of transit visas cannot work or study in Thailand.

Types of Thailand Transit visas

Transit visas allow you to stay in Thailand for a specific time and then leave for your final destination.

Thus, three (3) categories of transit visas are issued to visitors traveling through Thailand. They include:

• Category TS transit visa: Category TS transit visa allows foreigners to stay in Thailand territory for thirty days on their way to another country.
• Category S transit visa: This visa allows sports persons, athletes, officials, and spectators to enter Thailand to participate in sporting events or attend training sessions.
• Category C transit visa: 

Crew members of a conveyance arriving at a port, station, or area in Thailand may qualify for a visa under the transit visa-conveyance scheme.

Requirements for Thailand transit visa

There are general requirements you must meet to be able to transit through Thailand with a visa. They include:

• International passport or travel documents
• Thailand transit visa application form (available at the Thailand embassy or consulate in your country)
• Four (4) passport photographs
• Evidence of sufficient funds
• Confirmation of hotel reservations
• Proof of onward travel
• Thailand transit visa fee
• Visa of the destination country
• A letter of invitation from a sports organization (if applicable)
• Applicants transiting through Thailand as a crew member must submit a confirmation letter from their employer
• Health insurance cover

Application procedure

If you are planning to travel through Thailand on your way to another country, you must secure a transit visa. Here are the steps you require to take to apply for one:

#Step 1. Gather the necessary documents for the visa

If you plan to travel to Thailand, it is essential to gather the relevant documents in advance. 

This includes a passport valid for six months after your planned departure from Thailand, a return ticket, proof of sufficient funds, and other documents.

#Step 2. Check the Thailand embassy or consulate website to find the latest visa application deadlines

The best way to find out the latest application deadline is to check the Thailand embassy or consulate website. 

Most embassies and consulates have updated their websites with the latest application deadline dates, making it easy to determine if you meet the requirements.

#Step 3. Fill the visa application form and submit it along with the required documentation

Thailand is a popular tourist destination for many people around the world. The transit visa allows you to stay in Thailand for a limited time while you continue your journey to your final destination. 

However, before you travel to Thailand and begin your journey, you must obtain a visa first.

If you plan to transit through Thailand, the next step is to fill out the visa application form and submit it with the relevant paperwork to obtain a transit visa. 

#Step 4. Wait for a response from the diplomatic mission

There is no definitive answer as to when a visa application will be processed, or whether a visa will be granted. 

But, there are times when delays may occur due to backlogs or other reasons. 

It is essential to keep track of the progress of your application and to contact the embassy or consulate if you do not receive a response after two weeks.

#Can I obtain a Thailand transit visa on arrival?

Visitors who are transiting through Thailand and have a valid passport for the country of origin can apply for a thirty days visa on arrival at any port of entry.

However, if you are not a national of one of these countries eligible for a visa on arrival, you must obtain a transit visa before arriving in Thailand.

• Bhutan
• China
• Cyprus
• Russia
• Ethiopia
• Georgia
• Malta
• Mexico
• Nauru
• Vanuatu
• Fiji
• Papua New Guinea
• Romania
• Saudi Arabia
• Bulgaria
• Taiwan
• Uzbekistan
• Kazakhstan

Importantly, Thailand transit visas on arrival are valid for a maximum of fifteen days and cannot be extended.

Is it possible to extend a Thailand transit visa?

You can extend a Thailand transit visa if needed.

A transit visa is typically for those traveling through Thailand to another destination. If you need to stay longer in Thailand, you must apply for a long-term visa.

Thus, travelers can apply for a visa extension at the Immigration Bureau of Thailand (IBT) in Bangkok or Phuket before their visa expires.

Can I apply for a Thailand transit visa online?

Online applications for Thailand transit visas have become increasingly popular in recent years. The reason is that the process is much more streamlined than traditional visa applications, and there are no long waiting periods involved.

In addition, many people find the online application process easier to complete than filling out a paper application. 

Suppose you are planning to travel to Thailand and will only be in the country for a short period, then a transit visa may be the best option.

Read Also: Steps on how to apply for a Thailand Retirement Visa

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to travel through Thailand?

Thailand is a country that is known for its beautiful scenery and welcoming people. However, it is essential to remember that Thailand is also dangerous. 

There are many dangerous animals in Thailand, and travelers should be aware of these dangers before traveling there.

It is also essential to be aware of the risks posed by the climate in Thailand. 

The country experiences high temperatures all year round, and severe weather can occur at any time.

Can I work on a Transit visa in Thailand?

No. A foreigner who wants to work in Thailand must secure a work visa. Transit visas are valid for up to six months and can be extended if needed. 

Thus, applicants must meet the requirements, including having a ticket out of Thailand, employer sponsorship, proof of funds, and other relevant documents.

Do I need a Covid test to transit through Thailand?

There is no definitive answer, as the Covid test is not always required for travel through many countries. 

However, it is generally advisable that all travelers undergo a health check-up before entering a foreign country. 

The Covid test can help identify potential health risks that may come with traveling to Thailand.

How long does it take to process a Thailand transit visa?

It usually takes two to three weeks to process a Thailand transit visa. However, this time can vary depending on the embassy or consulate you visit. 

You must provide your passport information and other necessary documents. Once the visa is approved, you will receive an email notification.

How can I obtain a Thailand transit visa on arrival?

Travelers can apply at the airport or any of the many immigration offices located throughout the country. 

The application process is simple and can take only a few minutes to complete. 

Hence, you must have the relevant documents before you apply, as failure to provide them could result in a delay or denial of your visa.

Can I secure a Thailand visa online?

Yes, you can secure a Thailand visa online. The process is simple and takes only a few minutes to complete. 

You must provide basic information about yourself and your travel plans. Then the visa application will be processed automatically. 

The main advantage to getting a visa online is that it can save you time and hassle.

Conclusion

In conclusion, if you are planning to transit through Thailand make sure to obtain a transit visa before departure. 

This document will allow you to stay in Thailand for the required time and will be valid for thirty days. 

Additionally, carry your passport and visa with you in Thailand, as they may be required for formal immigration procedures.