Two things changed recently and travellers keep missing the second one. Visas moved to an electronic system, and since 1 May 2025 almost everyone entering Thailand must complete the digital arrival card online before arrival — including visa-exempt tourists who need no visa at all.
Quick facts
The visa-exempt period for U.S. citizens has been adjusted more than once in recent years, so confirm the current allowance rather than relying on what applied on a previous trip.
Fees breakdown
| Item | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Digital arrival card | Free | Completed online before arrival |
| Tourist visa | Electronic visa tariff | For longer stays |
| Non-immigrant categories | Higher tariffs | Work, study, retirement, family |
| Extension in Thailand | Charged there | Immigration bureau |
| Re-entry permit | Charged in Thailand | To keep a long-stay visa alive |
Long-stay categories — retirement, marriage, education, the newer remote-work routes — carry financial thresholds and require reporting to immigration at regular intervals once you are there.
How to apply
- Establish whether your nationality and purpose need a visa at all.
- Apply on the official electronic visa system where one is needed.
- Upload the supporting documents for the category.
- Complete the digital arrival card within the permitted window before you travel.
- Carry printed confirmations, since airlines check them.
- Report to immigration in Thailand at the intervals your visa requires.
Required documents
- Passport valid at least six months beyond arrival.
- Confirmed onward or return ticket.
- Proof of accommodation in Thailand.
- Evidence of funds where the category requires it.
- Financial, employment or enrolment documents by visa type.
- Digital arrival card confirmation.
Where to apply
Online for both the visa and the arrival card. Missions advise on categories and handle cases the system does not cover.
Thailand Consulate
View details →BostonThailand Consulates
View details →ChicagoRoyal Thai Consulate General
View details →Coral GablesRoyal Thai Consulate General
View details →DallasConsulate of Thailand
View details →HonoluluConsulate General of Thailand
View details →HoustonConsulate General of Thailand
View details →New OrleansConsulate General of Thailand
View details →New YorkRoyal Thai Consulate General New York
View details →PortlandConsulate General of Thailand
View details →PortlandRoyal Thai Honorary Consulate General
View details →WashingtonRoyal Thai Embassy
View details →WashingtonRoyal Thai Embassy (Consular Office)
View details →Additional notes
The arrival card catches people out
It is free and takes minutes, but it is not optional and it is not the same as a visa. Travellers who have visited Thailand for years without one are exactly the ones who forget.
Only official sites
Numerous sites charge for the arrival card. It costs nothing on the government system.
Thai citizens
Thai nationals enter on a Thai passport and need neither. Dual nationals should read the citizenship page.
Overstaying
Thailand enforces overstay penalties strictly, with fines and entry bans. Track your permitted stay from the stamp, not the visa.