Thailand Entry requirements
Getting in
Updated 18th January 25: Every country has its entry requirements, which inevitably are subject to change. It is sensible therefore, before confirming any travel arrangements, to make sure that you will be able to comply with the latest rules and regulations. This applies to all countries you intend to visit and/or transit.
The following information is specifically for UK citizen passport holders. However, most of the information will apply to the majority of nationalities but if unsure, we suggest that you contact your nearest Thai Embassy for advice, well in advance of travel.
According to the UK Foreign Office in London, you can visit Thailand under the Visa Exemption scheme for a period of 60 days for the purpose of tourism, business engagements, and urgent or ad-hoc work. This visa category can be extended for another period not exceeding 30 days. There may be an Immigration fee for this extension.
Note regarding Extensions of Stay
Those who want to stay longer or wish to change their type of visa, must apply for permission at the Office of Immigration Bureau located at the Government Complex Building B, Chaengwattana Soi 7, Laksi, Bangkok 10210, Tel 0-2141-9889 or go to http://www.immigration.go.th You can of course make inquiries at the Immigration Office in the area where you are staying. However, please be aware that an extension of stay as well as changing visa categories, is permitted solely at the discretion of the immigration officer.
Foreigners entering Thailand by any means under the Visa Exemption scheme may be required, at the port of entry, to have proof of planned travel (confirmed air, train, bus, or boat tickets) to leave Thailand within 60 days of the arrival date. Otherwise, a visa must be obtained before entering Thailand.
You can check this site, https://www.thaievisa.go.th/ to see if you need a visa and if so, process the online application and await approval. Alternatively, for those in Cambodia, you can contact the Thai Embassy at 196 Preah Norodom Blvd (41), Phone: 023 726 306 for advice.
You might like to check Thai Immigrations’ NEW online extension service at this link: https://thaiextension.vfsevisa.com/
Tip: Always check well in advance for visa requirements. It is unwise to leave matters to the last minute and be aware of public holidays when offices may be closed.
Important: Be aware too, should you have recently visited a country on the Yellow Fever list, some countries in Africa and South America for example, but maybe others too, you may need a vaccination certificate for presentation to Thai immigration upon arrival. Check this out well in advance of travel.
For work and any other long-stay, for any purpose, contact your nearest Thai Embassy before travel. Should you already be in Thailand, make inquiries at your nearest Immigration Office.
Public holidays
There is something of a confusing array of holidays, when some places may be closed. For a clearer understanding, please consult the information at the following two links.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2025_in_Thailand
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_holidays_in_Thailand
Newspapers online in English
Bangkok Post at: https://bangkokpost.com/
The Nation at: https://nationthailand.com
Useful/Emergency phone numbers
Ambulance : 1669.
Fire : 199.
Government : 1111.
Police : 191.
Weather
You can easily check the weather anywhere by using the panel in the sidebar
Phone/Wifi SIM cards
Although far from being the only internet provider, I would suggest you contact AIS Fibre who have retail outlets throughout Thailand, who will suggest what is best for you whether you are on a short holiday, or staying long term. You may need your passport to register
Exchange Rates
Check the latest exchange rates with the currency calculator in the sidebar
Where to stay
You should not have difficulty finding somewhere to stay. I suggest that you log into Booking.com for an overview of availability, wherever you are. There is no shortage of budget hotels and guest houses in Thailand which may not appear on any of the search engines. You may, therefore, find it convenient to book somewhere for your first night and look around the following day for something better suited to your price range. I’m sure that you will already know that a good time to search is mid-morning, as many travelers move on around lunchtime.
Getting around
You will find tuk-tuks just about everywhere in Thailand. However, as many of the drivers do not speak anything other than Thai, I suggest that you use Grab. Download their app and away you go. The fare is as stated on the app screen and whether the driver speaks your language or doesn’t speak at all, no problem. Make sure that you enter the correct tuk-tuk by checking that the registration number tallies with what you have seen on the app. Make sure too, that you have enough in small change to pay the driver the correct amount. Drivers do not always have change.
Thailand has extensive networks of bus and train services to most parts of the country. Overnight sleeper trains to the north and northeast provide transport combining a night’s accommodation. There are also many overnight bus services, particularly from Bangkok to Chiang Mai for example.
Like any big city, Bangkok has many local train and bus services. Plenty of information on the internet using Google. Many intercity trains run from the new station at Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal, not too far from Don Mueang Airport. However, some services still operate out of Hua Lampong including the twice-daily service to Ban Khlong Luk border station for Cambodia. Should you be in a hurry, there is a selection of budget flights operated by Air Asia, check the internet for their routes and prices, etc.
Scams etc.
Be aware that there is no shortage of scams in Thailand. Be vigilant in busy places like markets and of course, at night time. Always keep your phone completely out of sight, and if you see something that’s not yours, like a “discarded” wallet for example, don’t touch it.
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