There has been a lot of talk recently in Thailand related forums about possible visa rule changes. What is being said is that airlines and passport control in Thailand are now requiring visitors to have onward tickets out of Thailand to countries other than those immediately surrounding Thailand (Malaysia, Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam and Singapore). Without an onward ticket some people are claiming that visa’s will not be issued. The initial report for this came from the Thai consulate in Penang as of Feb. 1st, 2008, and follow-up reports are confirming for some, but others are having no problems. Obviously something has changed, but at this point there seems to be no rhyme or reason.

I have taken a look at the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for the Kingdom of Thailand and here is what I can see:

There is a list of 40 countries whose passport holders are permitted to enter Thailand without a tourist visa for up to 30 days. The list can be found here and includes the U.S., U.K., Australia, Canada and other European and Asian countries. Foreigners entering Thailand under the Tourist Visa Exemption category must possess adequate finances for the duration of stay in Thailand (i.e., cash 10,000 Baht per person and 20,000 Baht per family).

Note that the 30 day Tourist Visa Exemption can only be used for a total of 90 days every 6 months. This change was made last year to decrease the number of people staying in Thailand longterm on the Tourist Visa Exemption by making monthly visa runs outside Thailand’s borders.

There is a list of an additional 20 countries who can apply for a 15 day visa upon arrival to Thailand. That list can be found here. This type of visa requires the same financial stipulation and also requires the applicant to present full paid ticket which is usable within 15 days since the date of entry.

So as you can see there is nothing here that indicates visitors from the U.S, England, Australia, etc should need an onward air ticket when coming to Thailand as a tourist. I’m not sure where the confusion lies or what change may have been made. It is obvious that if a change to the visa regulations in Thailand have been made then it has not yet been made public knowledge.

I am continuing to monitor and investigate this situation and will provide updates as I find more information. I will also be putting together a guide for those interested in staying longterm in Thailand. What is required in the way of visa’s and work permits if you want to make Thailand your home for longer than 90 days. Stay tuned.

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