Indian citizens can travel to Thailand for purposes like tourism, business, employment, and education, subject to the specific visa category's eligibility criteria.

Individuals have the option to apply for a Thailand Visa before their travel or use the Visa on Arrival (VOA) for a stay up to 15 days. The method of application—online or offline—depends on the type of visa. Entry regulations to Thailand are overseen by the Royal Thai Embassy/Consulate under Thailand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA).

Applying for a Thailand Visa

The application process involves submitting a completed form along with necessary documents and paying a non-refundable visa fee. The decision of visa approval or rejection considers the applicant's eligibility and submission requirements. Common documentation required for most visas includes:

• Application Form: Complete according to MFA guidelines.
• Photograph: Attach a passport-sized photo (4x6 cm).
• Passport: An original passport valid for at least six months with two blank pages, or valid MFA-recognized travel documents.
• Proof of Sufficient Funds: Required for certain visa categories to show financial capacity.
• Proof of Stay: Required for various visa types.
• Bank Statement: A six-month statement might be requested.
• Tickets: A confirmed return ticket or intended travel date.
• Additional Documents: Depending on the visa, further documents such as letters, approvals, or references may be necessary.

Tracking Visa Applications

Visa application status can be checked through the Thai e-visa website by entering the passport or visa number.

Thai Visa Application Centres in India (VFS Global)

Chennai: Located at Fagun Towers, Egmore, Chennai - 600008. Email: infothai.southin@vfshelpline.com. Submission is from 08:00 to 12:00 and 13:00 to 15:00, Monday to Friday. Passport retrieval is on the same timings.

Bengaluru: Global Tech Park, Langford Town, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560025. Email: infothai.southin@vfshelpline.com. Same submission and retrieval timings as Chennai.

Hyderabad: At Mekins Maheshwari Mayank Plaza, Ameerpet, Hyderabad 500016. Email: infothai.southin@vfshelpline.com. Timings same as above.

Kerala: S & T Arcade, Ravipuram, Cochin, Kerala – 682015. Email: infothai.southin@vfshelpline.com. Timings are similar.

Visa Validity for Indians

The Royal Thai Embassy/Consulate grants Thailand visas with validity periods of three months, six months, one year, and three years. The visa's validity and stay period are stamped by immigration officers. Extensions must be processed at the Immigration Bureau in Bangkok or provincial offices. Visit the official site www.immigration.go.th for further details.

Types of Thailand Visas

• Tourist Visa: Valid for three to six months with a 60-day maximum stay, extendable by 30 days.
• Business/Employment Visa: Non-immigrant B and IB visas valid for 90 days, extendable to one year, for employment or investment.
• Smart Visa: Launched on February 1, 2018, for skilled professionals in designated industries.
• Transit Visa: Three months validity with a max stay of 30 days.
• Long-Stay Visa: Non-Immigrant O-A (one year) and O-X (five years) for individuals aged 50 or older.
• Non-immigrant ED Visa: For students, initially valid for 90 days, extendable based on academic records.
• Non-immigrant O Visa: For those with Thai family, valid for 90 days.
• Non-immigrant F Visa: For official government positions, valid for 90 days.

Thailand Visa Application Options

• Online Application: Available via the VFS Global website for Bangkok visas.
• Visa on Arrival (VOA): For stays up to 15 days, requires an application fee of 1,000 Baht and specific documents.
• Offline Application: Submit applications through VFS Global Thailand Visa Centres by downloading the form and presenting required documentation.
• More information is available from VFS Global Thailand Visa Application Centres in India, including contact details.