As per the VisaGuide Passport Index of July 2023, the Thai passport holds the 106th rank globally. It permits Thai citizens to access 46 international destinations without the necessity of a visa. However, Thai citizens must procure a visa in advance for visiting the remaining nations.

Countries Offering Visa-Free Entry to Thai Citizens

As of the latest data in July 2023, Thai passport bearers can avail of visa-exempt travel to 46 countries and regions:

While traveling visa-free, it's important for Thai citizens to carry a passport that remains valid for at least six months from the date of their planned departure. Additionally, they may need to procure travel health insurance, based on the requirements of the destination country.

Countries Offering eVisa Facilities to Thai Citizens

21 countries offer the convenience of eVisa facilities to Thai passport holders:

Acquiring an eVisa involves a process similar to traditional visa application, with the added convenience of online submission, including the visa fee payment. Upon approval, you'll receive an email confirmation of your visa status along with a document to print and carry during your travel. Despite online registration, you may still need to present a hard copy of the visa, hence it's advisable to keep it handy during your journey.

Countries Offering Visa on Arrival for Thai Citizens

34 countries extend the convenience of visa on arrival to Thai citizens, Armenia ,Bahrain, Bolivia ,Burundi ,Cabo Verde ,Comoros ,Guinea-Bissau ,Iran ,Jordan ,Kyrgyzstan, Madagascar ,Malawi ,Maldives ,Marshall Islands ,Mauritania ,Mauritius ,Mozambique, Namibia ,Nepal ,Nicaragua ,Palau ,Papua New Guinea ,Rwanda ,Samoa ,Seychelles ,Sierra Leone ,Solomon Islands ,Somalia ,Saint Lucia ,Tanzania ,Timor-Leste ,Togo Tuvalu ,Zambia.

Visa on Arrival (VOA) is issued upon entering the host country. Generally, airports have a designated section for VOA application submissions.

Visa Exemption in ASEAN Countries for Thai Citizens

Thai citizens, being part of the ASEAN agreement, enjoy visa-free access to other ASEAN nations for up to 14 days or longer, based on the host country's policy. This visa exemption is an economic agreement benefit shared by Southeast Asian nations that are part of ASEAN.

Visa-Free Entry with an APEC Card

Thai APEC Business Travel Card (ABTC) holders can enter the following countries without a visa, Australia ,Brunei ,Chile ,China ,Hong Kong ,Indonesia ,Japan ,South Korea, Malaysia ,Mexico ,New Zealand ,Papua ,New Guinea ,Peru ,Philippines ,Russia, Singapore, Taiwan ,Vietnam.

The ABTC is a document issued to APEC agreement countries, facilitating easier business deals and travel. ABTC holders can avail benefits like:

• Visa-free entry to participating economies
• Legally conducting business in participating economies
• Expedited border crossing procedures for inter-member travel
• Expedited visa appointments for transitional countries (e.g., the US)

Canada's Visa Requirement for Thai Citizens

Thai citizens must apply for a visa to visit Canada. However, Electronic Travel Authority (eTA) registration can permit them entry into the country, provided they meet the following criteria:

• Held a Canadian visa in the last 10 years, or
• Hold a valid US non-immigrant visa

The eTA allows entry into Canada only via air travel.

Visa Mandates for Thai Citizens

Thai passport holders must obtain a valid visa to enter the following 125 countries:

The apply for e-Visa application process for Thai citizens includes:

• Scheduling an appointment with a local visa application center in Thailand.
• Preparing the necessary documents for Thai Citizens, such as the passport, application form, health insurance, etc.
• Submitting the application and attending the visa interview, which may also require biometric submission.

The documents required for visa application include:

• A valid Thai passport (and a photocopy)
• Completed visa application form
• Recent passport photographs
• Travel health insurance
• Proof of visa fee payment
• Detailed travel itinerary
• Letter of invitation (if applicable)
• Proof of return flight booking
• Proof of accommodation booking
• Proof of adequate funds to cover the trip
• Civil status documents

It's worth noting that a visa application may likely be denied if the applicant has a prior criminal record.

Work Visa for Thai Citizens

For Thai citizens looking to work in foreign countries, it's important to understand the different types of work visas available and the application process for each. Various countries have different criteria for eligibility and documentation requirements.

Student Visa for Thai Citizens

This section can detail the process Thai students need to undergo to secure a student visa for studying abroad. Information on general requirements, along with specific guidelines for popular destinations like the USA, UK, Australia, and Canada, can be provided.

Long-term Stay Visas for Thai Citizens

This topic could explore visas designed for long-term stays, such as retirement visas or residence visas. Guidelines for popular destinations for Thai citizens can be covered.

Transit Visa Requirements for Thai Citizens

Transit visas are essential for travelers who need to pass through a foreign country en route to their final destination. This section could provide information about the countries that require Thai citizens to have transit visas.

Visa Overstay Consequences for Thai Citizens

What are the potential legal and administrative consequences for Thai citizens overstaying their visas in different countries? This section could provide detailed insights.

Reciprocity Agreements Between Thailand and Other Countries

This section could provide information about any agreements that Thailand has with other countries, leading to changes in visa requirements.

Impact of COVID-19 on Visa Requirements for Thai Citizens

This topic could discuss any changes in visa rules and regulations as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, including health and safety requirements for international travel.

Visa Exemptions for Diplomatic and Official Passport Holders

Thai citizens with diplomatic or official passports may have different visa requirements. This topic could provide detailed information about the countries which allow visa-free entry for these types of passport holders.

Tips for Thai Citizens When Applying for a Visa

This section can include tips and guidance for Thai citizens when applying for a visa, such as how to ensure the application process goes smoothly, the common mistakes to avoid, the best time to apply, etc.

Each of these sections will provide comprehensive information for Thai citizens about various aspects of international travel and visa applications.

FAQ

How many countries can Thai citizens visit without a visa?

As of July 2023, Thai citizens can travel to 46 countries and territories without needing to apply for a visa.

How long can Thai citizens stay in visa-free countries?

The duration of stay in visa-free countries varies depending on each country's immigration policies. It is recommended to check the specific country's immigration website or contact their embassy for precise information.

Are there countries that offer eVisa or Visa on Arrival to Thai citizens?

Yes, numerous countries offer eVisa or Visa on Arrival services to Thai citizens. Please refer to the relevant sections above for a detailed list of such countries.

How can a Thai citizen apply for a visa?

The visa application process typically involves booking an appointment at a visa application center, preparing necessary documents, submitting the application, and attending a visa interview. Some countries offer an online application process.

What are the common requirements for a visa application?

Typically, you'll need to provide a valid Thai passport, a filled visa application form, recent passport-sized photos, travel health insurance, proof of paid visa fee, travel itinerary, proof of return flight booking, proof of accommodation, and evidence of sufficient funds.

Does a Thai citizen need a visa to visit ASEAN countries?

No, Thai citizens can visit other ASEAN countries without a visa for up to 14 days or even more depending on the country, thanks to the ASEAN agreement.

Do Thai citizens need a visa to visit Canada?

Yes, Thai citizens need a visa to visit Canada, but if they have held a Canadian visa in the past 10 years or hold a valid US non-immigrant visa, they can enter the country by only registering with the Electronic Travel Authority (eTA), provided they are travelling by air.

What happens if a Thai citizen overstays their visa?

Overstaying a visa can lead to penalties such as fines, deportation, and even a ban from re-entering that country. It's crucial to respect the terms of the visa to avoid such consequences.