Thailand Visa and Immigration Guide

Thailand Visas & Immigration

The Complete 2025 Guide for Tourists, Expats and Digital Nomads

Thinking about traveling to Thailand in 2025? Whether you’re planning a two-week holiday, a six-month workcation, or a long-term move to paradise, understanding Thailand’s visa rules has never been more important.

In recent years, Thailand has overhauled many of its immigration policies: extending visa-free stays for tourists, introducing new long-term visa options for retirees and digital nomads, and tightening up on border runs and overstays. What worked a few years ago might not be good enough today.

This updated 2025 guide will walk you through everything you need to know about entering, staying, and living legally in Thailand.
From short tourist visits to long-term retirement, from digital nomad visas to marriage extensions, we’ll cover your options clearly and simply and without the confusion and outdated myths you often find elsewhere.

Let’s dive in and make sure your Thai adventure is worry-free from the moment you arrive.

Do You Need a Visa to Enter Thailand?

The good news for most travelers in 2025 is that Thailand is more welcoming than ever and ,depending on your nationality, you might not even need a visa before you travel.

For many visitors, Thailand offers visa-free entry, thanks to agreements with dozens of countries. Under the visa exemption program, eligible tourists can enter Thailand without applying for a visa in advance, stay for a set number of days, and even extend their stay if needed.

However, not everyone qualifies for visa-free entry. Some nationalities still require a Tourist Visa or Visa on Arrival before they can set foot on Thai soil. And if you’re planning to stay longer, work remotely, retire, or live in Thailand, you’ll need to explore the right long-term visa options.

In short:

• Short visits (under two months)? You might not need a visa at all.

• Staying longer? You’ll probably need to apply for a Tourist Visa, Retirement Visa, Long-Term Resident Visa (LTR), or another appropriate visa.

• Working, studying, or retiring? Special visa categories apply, and it’s essential to plan ahead.

In the sections that follow, we’ll explain exactly who qualifies for visa-free travel, how long you can stay, and what your options are if you want to spend more time living under the Thai sun.

Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC): Mandatory for All Foreign Travelers

Before we get on to the visa situation, make sure you understand that you will need to complete a TDAC every time you enter Thailand from 1 May 2025 onwards.

Starting May 1, 2025, Thailand has introduced the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC), a mandatory online pre-arrival registration for all foreign nationals entering the country by air, land, or sea. This digital system replaces the traditional paper-based TM6 form, aiming to streamline immigration procedures, enhance security, and support public health measures.​

Who Needs to Complete the TDAC?

All non-Thai citizens are required to complete the TDAC prior to arrival, regardless of visa type or exemption status. This includes tourists, business travelers, long-term residents, and digital nomads. Exceptions apply only to individuals transiting through Thailand without passing through immigration control and those entering with a border pass ( These will be citizens of Laos, Myanmar and Cambodia who frequently travel to Thailand for work or business in border towns. ) 

When and How to Submit the TDAC

Important Notes

• Accuracy: Ensure all information is accurate. Critical fields such as name, passport number, nationality, and date of birth cannot be edited after submission. If errors are made, a new TDAC must be submitted.​

• Language: The TDAC form must be completed in English.​

• Cost: There is no fee to submit the TDAC. Be cautious of unofficial websites or services that may charge for assistance .​

• Health Requirements: Travelers arriving from countries with a risk of Yellow Fever must provide a valid vaccination certificate as part of the health declaration.​

Consequences of Non-Compliance

Failure to complete the TDAC prior to arrival may result in:​

While assistance may be available at immigration checkpoints for those who have not completed the TDAC, this is intended for exceptional cases and is not guaranteed. Travelers are strongly advised to complete the TDAC online before departure to ensure a smooth entry process.

Visa Exemption (Visa-Free Entry) Explained (2025)

Thailand’s visa exemption program makes it incredibly easy for many tourists to visit without the hassle of paperwork. As of 2025, the rules have become even more generous, allowing visitors from more countries to stay longer than ever before.

If you are a citizen of one of 93 eligible countries, you can enter Thailand without applying for a visa in advance. You will be granted a visa-exempt entry stamp at immigration, allowing you to stay for up to 60 days.

This is a big improvement over the previous system where most tourists were limited to 30 days. The change, introduced in 2024, was designed to boost tourism and encourage longer visits.

Key points to know about visa exemption in 2025:

Length of stay:
You can stay for up to 60 days under the visa exemption program.

Extension available:
You can apply for a 30-day extension at a local immigration office inside Thailand, giving you a total of up to 90 days without leaving the country.

Entry points:
Visa-exempt entry is available when you arrive by air, land, or sea.

Proof of onward travel:
Immigration officers may ask for proof that you plan to leave Thailand before your 60-day stay ends. A confirmed flight ticket out of Thailand is usually acceptable.

Funds requirement:
You might be asked to show that you have enough money to support your stay. The general guideline is around 10,000 Baht per person or 20,000 Baht per family, although this is rarely enforced for most nationalities.

Overland entries:
If you enter Thailand overland (for example, via Cambodia or Laos), you can only do this twice per calendar year under the visa exemption program.
Arriving by air does not have a formal limit, but immigration officers can refuse entry if they suspect you are living in Thailand by stringing together tourist entries.

Important:
Visa exemption is intended for tourism only. If you plan to work, study, volunteer, or stay long-term for other purposes, you will need a different type of visa.

Before you book your flight, double-check that your country is on the list of visa-exempt nations. And even if you qualify for visa-free entry, it is a smart idea to carry proof of your onward travel and a backup plan in case immigration asks for it.

In the next section, we will look at how a Tourist Visa works for those who need or prefer one.

Tourist Visas for Thailand (Single and Multiple Entry)

If you are planning to stay in Thailand for longer than 60 days, or if your nationality does not qualify for visa exemption, applying for a Tourist Visa before you travel is the best option.

Tourist visas are straightforward to apply for and allow a longer, more flexible stay compared to visa exemption stamps.

Types of Tourist Visas Available in 2025

Single Entry Tourist Visa (SETV):
This visa allows you to stay in Thailand for up to 60 days from the date of arrival. You can apply for a 30-day extension at any immigration office once you are in Thailand, giving you up to 90 days total.
Once you leave Thailand, the visa is used, and you would need to apply for a new one if you want to re-enter.

Multiple Entry Tourist Visa (METV):
This visa is valid for six months from the date of issue. During this time, you can enter Thailand as many times as you like, staying up to 60 days per entry. Like the single-entry visa, each stay can also be extended by 30 days.
The METV is ideal for travelers who plan to visit neighboring countries and return to Thailand multiple times within a few months.

How to Apply for a Tourist Visa

Tourist visas must be obtained before you travel to Thailand.
Applications can be made:

To apply, you will usually need:

• A valid passport with at least six months’ validity

• A recent passport-sized photo

• A completed visa application form

• Proof of travel plans (flight itinerary)

• Proof of accommodation bookings

• Financial evidence, such as bank statements showing sufficient funds

• Payment of the visa fee

Processing times vary but typically take three to ten business days.
If applying online, make sure you use the official Ministry of Foreign Affairs eVisa website and apply well in advance of your planned travel date.

Tourist Visa Costs in 2025

• Single Entry Tourist Visa: Approximately 1,000 Thai Baht or the equivalent in your local currency

• Multiple Entry Tourist Visa: Approximately 5,000 Thai Baht

Visa fees may vary slightly depending on the embassy or consulate where you apply.

Important Tip:
Even if you have a Tourist Visa, immigration officers at the airport or border still have the final say in allowing entry. Always travel with copies of your visa approval, proof of your accommodation, and an onward ticket if possible.

Visa on Arrival (VOA)

If you are not eligible for visa exemption but still want to visit Thailand for a short holiday, you might qualify for a Visa on Arrival (VOA).

A Visa on Arrival is available to citizens of 31 countries and allows a quick, relatively simple entry process for short stays.

Key Points About Visa on Arrival in 2025

Who Qualifies:
Countries eligible for VOA include India, China, Saudi Arabia, and several others.  Always check the latest list before traveling, as Thailand occasionally updates it.

Length of Stay:
A Visa on Arrival allows you to stay for up to 15 days in Thailand.  This includes the day of arrival and the day of departure.

Where You Can Get It:
You can obtain a VOA at major international airports (such as Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, Phuket, and Chiang Mai) and some land border crossings.

Requirements at Arrival:

• Passport valid for at least 30 days beyond your intended stay

• A completed VOA application form (available on arrival or online in advance)

• A recent passport-sized photo

• Proof of onward travel within 15 days (flight ticket out of Thailand)

• Proof of accommodation in Thailand

• Proof of sufficient funds (at least 10,000 Baht per person or 20,000 Baht per family)

• Visa on Arrival fee: approximately 2,000 Thai Baht (payable in cash)

eVOA Option:
To speed up the arrival process, many travelers now choose to apply for an electronic Visa on Arrival (eVOA) before they travel.
You can apply online, upload your documents, pay the fee, and then simply present your pre-approved eVOA at immigration to avoid long queues.

Apply only through the official Thai eVisa website or trusted partners.

Important Reminders:
The Visa on Arrival cannot be extended beyond 15 days.
If you plan to stay longer, you should apply for a regular Tourist Visa instead.
If your country is eligible for both VOA and visa exemption (like some places were temporarily during COVID), always check which option gives you the longer or more flexible stay.

In the next section, we will cover how you can extend your stay in Thailand if you wish to stay longer after you arrive.

Extending Your Stay in Thailand

Whether you arrived in Thailand under visa exemption, with a Tourist Visa, or a Visa on Arrival, you might find yourself wanting to extend your stay. Luckily, Thailand offers simple options for extending your visit without needing to leave the country.

Extending a Visa-Exempt Stay

If you entered Thailand without a visa under the visa exemption program, you can apply for a 30-day extension at any immigration office.
This means you can extend your original 60-day stay (or shorter) to a maximum of 90 days without leaving Thailand.

Extending a Tourist Visa

If you entered Thailand with a Single Entry Tourist Visa (SETV), you are also eligible to extend your stay by 30 additional days.
The process is the same as extending a visa-exempt entry and gives you a total of up to 90 days in Thailand on a Tourist Visa.

If you hold a Multiple Entry Tourist Visa (METV), you can extend each individual entry by 30 days as well.

Where to Apply for an Extension

You can apply for a visa extension at immigration offices across Thailand.
Popular offices include those in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Pattaya, and Trat (for visitors on Koh Chang).

Documents Needed for an Extension

• Your original passport

• A completed extension application form (TM7 form)

• A passport-sized photo

• The extension fee of 1,900 Thai Baht (cash only)

It is a straightforward process.
You will usually receive your passport back with the new extended stamp on the same day or within a few hours.

Important Tips for Extensions

• Do not leave it until the very last day to extend your visa. Try to apply at least a few days before your current permission to stay expires.

• Always double-check your passport after receiving the extension stamp to ensure the new date is correct.

• If you overstay by even one day without an extension, you risk fines and complications.

Can You Extend More Than Once?

Generally, you can only extend once per entry.  If you wish to stay longer after your extension runs out, you will usually need to leave Thailand and either return under a new visa-exempt entry or apply for a new Tourist Visa abroad.

In the next section, we will look at the different long-term stay options available if you are considering something more permanent.

Border Runs from Koh Chang

If you have a 30 day visa exemption, then instead of obtaining a 30 day extension at an immigration office you could do a border run.  This entails heading to the nearest border, leaving Thailand and then coming back in again. Hey presto, you’ll have another free 30 day visa exemption stamp in your passport.  

The nearest border for anyone staying on Koh Chang is the Cambodian border at Hat Lek.   You can buy tickets for a border run minibus from tour agents on Koh Chang for around 1,400 Baht.  This will pick you  Plus you’ll need to get a Cambodian visa.  This is officially US$30 but you’ll be asked for more.  Or you can get it online for $36 ( which includes a $6 processing fee ).  The Cambodian immigration guys also like to extort people for 300 Baht for coming back the same day they are stamped out.  

So all in all, it’s more expensive than just going to Laem Ngop for the extension. Of course, you can only extend a 30 day exemption or tourist visa once.  After that you will have to leave the country and do either a border run or a visa run – to obtain a new tourist visa from a consulate or embassy outside Thailand.

Visa runs from Koh Chang

If you need to get a new Tourist Visa then rather than go to the Thai embassy in Phnom Penh, many people prefer to go to the Thai Embassy in Vientiane or consulate in Savannakhet.  It’s a much further distance but far easier to get the visa there.  But for most longstay visitors or travellers, it’s relatively easy to plan your trip to include time in neighbouring countries when it will be possible to get a new visa for Thailand if required.  Note that appointments are now required, plan in advance.

Long-Term Stay Options for Expats, Retirees, and Digital Nomads

If you are thinking of making Thailand your home for more than just a few months, there are several long-term visa options available in 2025. These are designed for retirees, digital nomads, professionals, investors, and those with family ties to Thailand.

Choosing the right visa depends on your age, financial situation, reason for staying, and how long you intend to live in the country.

Retirement Visas (Non-Immigrant O-A and O-X)

Thailand remains a popular destination for retirees, offering warm weather, affordable living, and excellent healthcare.
There are two main retirement visa options:

Non-Immigrant O-A Visa (1-Year Retirement Visa)

• For foreigners aged 50 and over.

• Must show at least 800,000 Thai Baht in a Thai bank account for two months before applying, or prove a monthly income of 65,000 Baht.

• Mandatory health insurance is required, covering at least 400,000 Baht for inpatient and 40,000 Baht for outpatient treatment.

• The visa is valid for one year and can be renewed annually inside Thailand.

Non-Immigrant O-X Visa (10-Year Retirement Visa)

• Available for citizens of select countries, including the USA, UK, Australia, Japan, and several European nations.

• For applicants aged 50 and over.

• Must have at least 3 million Thai Baht in a Thai bank account or a combination of bank savings and income.

• Requires approved Thai health insurance.

• Grants a 5-year visa initially, renewable for another 5 years without the need to leave the country.

Important for Retirees:
In addition to meeting financial and insurance requirements, retirees must complete 90-day reporting to immigration and should always maintain their financial qualifications throughout their stay.

Marriage Visa (Non-Immigrant O)

If you are married to a Thai citizen, you may apply for a Non-Immigrant O Marriage Visa.

Requirements include:

• Proof of a legally registered marriage to a Thai national.

• Financial evidence: either a bank balance of 400,000 Thai Baht or a monthly income of 40,000 Baht.

• This visa is renewable every year.

• Like retirees, you must report your address to immigration every 90 days and obtain a re-entry permit if you plan to leave Thailand temporarily.

A Marriage Visa does not automatically grant permission to work.  If you intend to work, you must apply separately for a work permit.

Long-Term Resident Visa (LTR)

Thailand’s Long-Term Resident (LTR) Visa program launched in 2022 aims to attract high-potential foreigners, offering a 10-year visa with multiple benefits.

Categories include:

• Wealthy Global Citizens

• Wealthy Pensioners (retirees with stable high incomes)

• Highly Skilled Professionals

• Work-from-Thailand Professionals (remote workers and digital nomads with high incomes)

Highlights of the LTR Visa:

• 10 years of renewable stay.

• Permission to work legally in Thailand.

• Fast-track immigration services at airports.

• Fewer reporting requirements (annual reporting instead of every 90 days).

• Dependents (spouse and children) can be included.

Eligibility generally requires:

• A minimum income of USD 80,000 per year (or USD 40,000 for certain professionals).

• Health insurance covering at least USD 50,000.

• Investment in Thailand or certain job qualifications for some categories.

While the LTR visa is not for everyone due to its relatively high income thresholds, it is a strong option for retirees, investors, and remote workers who meet the criteria.

Destination Thailand Visa (DTV)  – New for Digital Nomads

In mid-2024, Thailand introduced the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV), designed for remote workers, freelancers, students attending Thai courses, and even visitors joining wellness or sports programs.

Key points about the DTV:

• Valid for five years.

• Stay up to 180 days per entry, with the possibility of a 180-day extension.

• Multiple entries allowed during the visa’s five-year validity.

• Requires proof of at least 500,000 Thai Baht in financial resources.

• Application fee: 10,000 Baht.

Unlike the LTR visa, the DTV is more accessible to a wider range of digital nomads and long-stay travelers, making it one of the most exciting visa options for Thailand in 2025.

Choosing the Right Long-Term Visa

Each visa type has its advantages and restrictions.
Before deciding, think carefully about how long you want to stay, your financial situation, and whether you need the flexibility to work while living in Thailand.

In the next section, we will cover Visa Runs and Border Crossing Rules, especially useful for those planning to stay longer without applying for a long-term visa immediately.

Visa Runs and Border Crossing Rules

Before Thailand expanded visa options and extended visa-free stays, many long-term visitors relied heavily on visa runs, these are quick trips across the border to reset their stay without applying for a long-term visa.

While visa runs are still possible in 2025, immigration authorities have tightened enforcement of the rules, and it is important to understand the risks and limitations.

What is a Visa Run?

A visa run simply means exiting Thailand, entering a neighboring country, and then returning to Thailand to receive a new visa-exempt stamp, activate a new visa, or apply for a visa abroad.

Typical visa run destinations include Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia, and Myanmar, depending on where you are in Thailand.

Rules for Overland Entries in 2025

• If you use the visa exemption program and cross into Thailand overland, you are limited to two overland entries per calendar year.

• Arrivals by air do not have an official entry limit, but immigration officers have the right to deny entry if they believe you are abusing the system by living in Thailand on back-to-back tourist entries.

Key Points to Remember About Visa Runs

• A visa run does not guarantee re-entry. Immigration officers can and do refuse entry if they believe your travel history suggests you are not a genuine tourist.

• Frequent short exits followed by immediate returns will increase scrutiny.

• Always travel with proof of onward travel, hotel bookings, and financial support, especially if you are making multiple entries in a year.

• Visa runs should be seen as a backup, not a long-term living strategy in 2025.

• Applying for a proper long-term visa is now much more practical for serious long-term visitors, retirees, and remote workers.

In the next section, we will explain TM30 and 90-Day Reporting, two important obligations that long-term visitors and expats must understand.

TM30 and 90-Day Reporting Explained

If you are planning to stay in Thailand for more than a few weeks, you will come across two important but often confusing requirements: TM30 address reporting and 90-day reporting.
These rules apply mainly to long-stay visa holders but can affect tourists and short-term visitors too in some cases.

Understanding these obligations will help you avoid unexpected fines and ensure your stay in Thailand remains trouble-free.

TM30 Address Reporting

What is TM30?

The TM30 is a notification form that informs Thai immigration authorities where a foreigner is staying.
It is part of Thailand’s immigration tracking system, designed to keep records of foreign nationals’ residences while they are in the country.

Who Must Report?

• Hotels, guesthouses, and resorts are responsible for reporting the stay of foreign guests.

• If you stay in a private home, condo, or Airbnb, the owner or landlord is legally required to submit a TM30 notification.

• If you are the property owner (or renting long-term), you may be asked to submit the TM30 yourself.

When Must TM30 Be Filed?

• Within 24 hours of arrival at a new address.

• Also when returning to Thailand after traveling abroad, even if you are returning to the same residence.

How is TM30 Submitted?

• Online through the Thai Immigration Bureau website or TM30 mobile app.

• In person at the nearest immigration office.

• Some landlords may handle this for you, but it is a good idea to check and confirm that it has been filed.

Consequences of Failing to Report

If a TM30 is not filed properly, you could face delays or problems when applying for visa extensions, 90-day reports, or re-entry permits.
Fines for the property owner (or yourself) can range from 800 to 2,000 Baht.

90-Day Reporting

What is 90-Day Reporting?

Any foreigner staying in Thailand on a long-term visa (more than 90 days continuously) must report their current address to immigration every 90 days.
This is required even if you have not moved to a new address.

Who Must Report?

• Holders of long-term visas, such as Retirement Visas, Marriage Visas, Business Visas, and Long-Term Resident Visas.

• Digital nomads and remote workers under the DTV visa may also need to report if staying continuously.

How to Complete 90-Day Reporting

• In person at the nearest immigration office.

• Online via the Thai Immigration Bureau’s 90-day reporting portal (if the system is working).

• By mail to the appropriate immigration office, using registered post.

Important Details

• You can submit your report up to 15 days before or 7 days after the actual 90-day mark.

• If you leave Thailand before your 90 days are up and re-enter, the clock resets, and you do not need to report immediately upon re-entry.

• Missing a 90-day report can result in a fine of up to 2,000 Baht.

Tip:  Set a reminder in your phone or calendar. Immigration does not send automatic notifications.

TM30 vs. 90-Day Reporting: What’s the Difference?

• TM30 is about notifying where you are staying whenever you change locations or return to Thailand.

• 90-day reporting is about confirming your continued presence at the same location every three months.

They are separate requirements, and fulfilling one does not exempt you from the other.

In the next section, we will explain what happens if you overstay your visa and why it is so important to stay legal while in Thailand.

Overstaying Your Visa in Thailand

Thailand is a welcoming country, but it takes immigration rules very seriously.
Overstaying your visa, even by a single day, can lead to fines, immigration blacklists, and bans from re-entering the country.

Whether you are a tourist, retiree, or long-term resident, it is essential to understand the consequences of overstaying and how to avoid getting into trouble.

What Happens if You Overstay?

Short Overstays (1 to 90 Days)

• You will be fined 500 Baht per day of overstay.

• The maximum fine is 20,000 Baht if you voluntarily present yourself at immigration or at the airport when leaving Thailand.

• If you overstay by just a few days and turn yourself in, you will likely only have to pay the fine without further penalties.

Long Overstays (Over 90 Days)

• If you overstay more than 90 days, you will be banned from returning to Thailand.

• The longer the overstay, the longer the ban:

  • Overstay of more than 90 days: 1-year ban

  • Overstay of more than 1 year: 3-year ban

  • Overstay of more than 3 years: 5-year ban

  • Overstay of more than 5 years: 10-year ban

Caught Overstaying by Authorities

• If you are caught by immigration police rather than presenting yourself voluntarily, the penalties are much harsher.

• You could face immediate detention, deportation, a black mark on your immigration record, and a ban even for a shorter overstay.

• You may also be held in immigration detention centers until deportation arrangements are made.

Common Causes of Overstaying

• Misunderstanding the difference between visa expiration and permission to stay dates.

• Forgetting about 30-day or 90-day extensions.

• Not realizing that a re-entry permit does not extend your permission to stay as it only keeps your visa valid for multiple entries.

• Unexpected travel disruptions or health emergencies without prior visa extension.

How to Avoid Overstaying

• Always check your entry stamp in your passport. The date written by the immigration officer is your deadline to leave, extend, or renew.

• Set calendar reminders for visa expiry and any 90-day report deadlines.

• If you need more time in Thailand, apply for an extension before your stay expires.

• If unexpected problems arise, contact immigration as early as possible to explain your situation.

Final Word on Overstays

Thailand is far stricter now about overstays than it was a decade ago.  Gone are the days when tourists casually paid a small fine and left without consequence.

A simple mistake could damage your ability to return in the future, so it is far better to be cautious and plan ahead.  If you are unsure about your visa or permission to stay, visit an immigration office for advice.  It is always better to ask than to assume.

E-Visas, Online Extensions and Digital Tools

Thailand has made big improvements in recent years to simplify the visa application and extension process.  If you are planning your trip or already in the country, there are now several digital options that can save you time and paperwork.

E-Visas for Thailand

What is the Thai E-Visa?

The Thai E-Visa system allows travelers to apply for a Tourist Visa online, without visiting a Thai embassy or consulate in person.
It covers a growing list of countries and is ideal if you want to secure a 60-day visa before you arrive.

How it Works:

• Apply through the official Thai E-Visa website operated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

• Complete the application form and upload scanned copies of your passport, photo, flight itinerary, and accommodation booking.

• Pay the visa fee online by credit card.

• Once approved, you will receive an E-Visa confirmation by email, which you must print and present to immigration on arrival.

Important Tips:

• Apply at least two to three weeks before your intended travel date.

• Use only the official MFA website, as many unofficial “visa agent” websites charge extra or cause confusion.

• Double-check your passport details carefully during the application to avoid delays.

Online Visa Extensions

In some provinces, Thailand has trialed online appointment systems for visa extensions, and limited self-service kiosks at major immigration offices.
While a fully digital extension process is still developing, expect more e-Services in the coming years.

At the moment:

If online extensions become fully available nationwide, it will be a major convenience for long-term visitors.

90-Day Reporting Online

If you are staying long-term in Thailand, you can complete your 90-day reporting online instead of visiting an immigration office in person.

How it Works:

• Visit the official Immigration Bureau website.

• Complete the online form with your current address and personal details.

• Submit the report between 15 days before and 7 days after your 90-day reporting deadline.

Important Notes:

• The online system can sometimes be unreliable.

• If your online report is not accepted, you must still go to the immigration office in person.

• Keep screenshots or email confirmations of successful online submissions for your records.

Trusted Resources

When managing your visa or extensions online, always rely on official government websites.
Some trusted sources include:

Avoid using unofficial third-party visa websites unless absolutely necessary.

Future Changes and Rumors (2025)

Thailand’s immigration policies have evolved a lot over the past few years, and it is likely that more changes will come in the future.  However, it is important to separate real updates from rumors, especially if you are planning a long stay.

Recent Developments

Since 2022, Thailand has introduced major updates such as:

• The Long-Term Resident (LTR) Visa, offering a 10-year stay for wealthy individuals, retirees, and highly skilled professionals.

• The Destination Thailand Visa (DTV), a new 5-year visa option for digital nomads, freelancers, and long-stay visitors.

• An expanded visa exemption program, now allowing 60-day stays for travelers from many more countries.

• Improved access to e-Visas and online 90-day reporting services.

These changes show that Thailand is serious about attracting long-stay visitors and encouraging new types of travelers, including retirees and remote workers.

Common Rumors to Ignore (for Now)

Over the years, several rumors have circulated that cause confusion among travelers and expats.
As of 2025, here is the reality:

“Vaping is Legal Now”
Still false. Vaping remains illegal, despite occasional calls for legalization.

“90-Day Reporting Has Been Abolished”
False. 90-day reporting is still required for most long-term visa holders, although online options are improving.

“Retirement Visas No Longer Require Health Insurance”
False. Retirement visa applicants still need valid Thai health insurance coverage, though the required amount was reduced back to 400,000 Baht inpatient and 40,000 Baht outpatient coverage.

“Border Runs Are Easy Again”
Border runs are possible, but immigration officers are stricter now.
Frequent re-entries without a proper visa can lead to refusals at the border.

What Might Change in the Future?

• Further expansion of e-Visa systems to cover even more visa types.

• Possible streamlining of retirement visa renewals if Thailand continues to encourage senior expats.

• New visa programs or adjustments based on global competition for remote workers and retirees.

• Adjustments to health insurance requirements for retirees and long-term residents.

• Greater digitalization of immigration services, reducing paperwork and in-person visits.

However, no major visa system overhaul has been confirmed yet for 2025.

Best Advice: Always Check Official Sources

Immigration policies can change quickly, and sometimes local officers interpret rules differently.  Before making travel or relocation plans, always check the latest updates from:

• The Royal Thai Embassy or consulate in your country.

• The Thai Immigration Bureau website.

• Reputable expat resources and Thailand-based news outlets.

Staying informed from trusted sources is the best way to avoid nasty surprises at the airport or immigration office.

In the next section, we will make things even easier with a Quick Reference Table summarizing the key visa options available in Thailand for 2025.

Quick Visa Reference Table

To make it easier to compare the different ways you can stay in Thailand in 2025, here is a simple overview of the main visa options:

FAQs About Thailand Visas 2025

To wrap up, here are answers to some of the most common questions travelers and expats ask about visas for Thailand.
These quick explanations will help you avoid confusion and plan your trip more easily.

Do I need a visa to visit Thailand for two months?

If you are from one of the 93 visa-exempt countries, you can now stay up to 60 days without a visa and extend it by 30 days at an immigration office.  This gives you a total stay of 90 days without needing a Tourist Visa.  If you prefer, you can also apply for a 60-day Tourist Visa in advance and then extend once inside Thailand.

How long can I stay in Thailand without a visa?

If you qualify for visa exemption, you can stay 60 days on arrival, plus 30 days more if you apply for an extension at immigration.  A Tourist Visa can give you a similar length of stay with slightly more flexibility depending on your plans.

Can I extend my visa-exempt stay in Thailand?

Yes.  Visitors arriving under visa exemption can apply for a 30-day extension at any immigration office.  The extension costs 1,900 Baht and usually takes only a few hours to process.

How much is the fine for overstaying in Thailand?

The fine for overstaying is 500 Baht per day, with a maximum fine of 20,000 Baht.  Long overstays of more than 90 days can result in being banned from Thailand for several years.
Always plan ahead to extend or leave before your permitted stay expires.

Can digital nomads live legally in Thailand now?

Yes.  Thailand introduced two new options for digital nomads:

• The Destination Thailand Visa (DTV), valid for five years, aimed at freelancers and remote workers with sufficient funds.

• The Long-Term Resident Visa (LTR), for higher-income remote workers who meet income and professional qualifications.

Both offer legal pathways for digital nomads to stay longer without relying on back-to-back tourist visas.

Can I bring my family if I get a long-term visa?

Yes.  Many long-term visas, including the Retirement Visa (O-X) and the Long-Term Resident Visa (LTR), allow you to include your spouse and children under 20 years old as dependents.
They must apply together with you or shortly after you receive your visa.

Do I still need to do 90-day reporting if I have a long-term visa?

Yes.  If you are staying in Thailand on any long-term visa (Retirement Visa, Marriage Visa, DTV, LTR, etc.), you are required to report your current address to immigration every 90 days.
The LTR Visa simplifies this slightly by requiring annual reporting instead of every 90 days.

Is it easy to apply for a visa online?

Applying for a Tourist Visa online is now much easier using the official Thai E-Visa portal.  You can upload your documents, pay the fee, and receive your visa approval by email.  However, not all types of long-term visas are fully available online yet.  For complex visas like LTR or DTV, you may still need to complete some paperwork through embassies or dedicated immigration services.

These FAQs cover the most important points, but immigration policies can change quickly.  Always double-check with official Thai immigration or embassy sources before finalizing your plans.

Final Advice: Plan Ahead for a Smooth Trip

Thailand’s visa system in 2025 offers more flexibility and opportunities than ever before, whether you are coming for a short holiday, a remote working adventure, or a long and relaxing retirement.

However, the key to a stress-free stay is good planning.  Before you book your flight, take a little time to:

• Check the latest visa rules for your nationality through official embassy or immigration websites.

• Choose the right visa based on how long you want to stay and what you plan to do in Thailand.

• Organize your documents carefully, especially if applying for a long-term visa or an extension.

• Set reminders for visa expiry dates, extensions, and 90-day reporting if needed.

• Avoid risky behavior like relying on frequent visa runs, overstaying, or trying to work illegally on a tourist visa.

Thailand welcomes millions of visitors each year, and most have no issues at all with immigration but the system is designed for those who follow the rules.  With a little preparation, you can enjoy everything this amazing country has to offer without worrying about visa problems along the way.

Safe travels and enjoy your time in Thailand!