Asia – Thailand Visa – Re Entry Permit

1. What is the process for obtaining a Thailand visa?


The process for obtaining a Thailand visa varies depending on the type of visa:

1. Determine which type of visa you need: The type of visa you need depends on the purpose of your visit, such as tourism, business, study, or retirement. You can find information about different types of visas on the website of the Thai Embassy or Consulate in your country.

2. Gather required documents: Generally, you will need to provide the following documents when applying for a Thailand visa:

– Passport with at least 6 months validity
– Completed application form
– Passport-sized photographs
– Proof of sufficient funds (bank statements)
– Flight itinerary or proof of onward travel
– Hotel reservations or letter of invitation from a sponsor in Thailand (if applicable)
– Other supporting documents depending on the type of visa you are applying for

3. Apply for a visa: You can apply for a Thailand visa at a Thai Embassy or Consulate in your country. Some countries also have an online application option. If there is no Thai Embassy or Consulate in your country, you can apply at the nearest consulate in a neighboring country.

4. Pay the visa fee: The fee for a Thailand visa varies depending on the type and duration of the visa. You can find this information on the website of the Thai Embassy/Consulate.

5. Attend an interview (if required): Some types of visas may require an interview as part of the application process. This can be done at the embassy/consulate or through video conferencing.

6. Wait for processing: It can take up to 3 weeks to process a Thailand visa, but some visas may be processed faster.

7. Collect your passport and approved visa: Once your application has been processed, you will receive your passport back with either an approved visa stamped inside it or a rejection letter if your application was not successful.

Note: These are general steps and may vary slightly depending on the country you are applying from. It is recommended to check the specific requirements and procedures with the Thai Embassy or Consulate in your country before starting the application process.

2. How long does it take to get a Thailand visa?


The processing time for a Thailand visa can vary depending on the type of visa you are applying for and your country of origin. In general, it can take anywhere from 1-4 weeks to process a Thailand visa. However, some visas may be processed faster or slower, so it is always best to check with the Thai embassy or consulate in your country for the most up-to-date processing times.

3. Can I extend my Thailand visa if I want to stay longer?


Yes, you can extend your Thai visa if you want to stay longer. The type of extension and the requirements will depend on the type of visa you hold. You will need to contact the Thai immigration office for specific information and procedures for extending your particular visa.

4. How much does a Thailand visa cost?


The cost of a Thailand visa varies depending on the type of visa you are applying for. Here are some examples of common visa types and their corresponding costs:

1. Tourist Visa: This type of visa costs around $35 USD for a single entry and $175 USD for multiple entries.

2. Non-Immigrant Visa: The cost ranges between $80 to $200 USD depending on the category and purpose of your visit (e.g. work, business, education).

3. Business Visa: The application fee is approximately $200 USD for a single entry and $400 USD for multiple entries.

4. Education Visa: The fee is around $80 USD per semester or 6-month period.

5. Retirement Visa: This type of visa requires an annual fee of around $200 USD.

Please note that additional fees may apply, such as embassy service fees or document processing fees. It is best to consult the Thai Embassy or consulate in your country for the most accurate and up-to-date information on visa costs.

5. Are there any specific requirements for a Thailand visa?

Some specific requirements for a Thailand visa may include:

– A valid passport with at least 6 months validity remaining
– Completed visa application form
– Recent passport-size photographs
– Proof of financial means to cover expenses during the stay (such as bank statements, credit card information)
– Proof of accommodation in Thailand (such as hotel reservations or invitation letter from a host)
– Travel itinerary or airline tickets showing planned entry and exit dates from Thailand
– For business visas, an invitation letter from an associated company in Thailand or proof of business activities such as a trade fair registration or conference confirmation
– For student visas, acceptance letter from a recognized educational institution in Thailand and proof of financial means to support studies in the country.

6. Can I work in Thailand with a tourist visa?


No, a tourist visa is not intended for the purpose of work. It only allows you to enter and stay in Thailand for tourism and leisure activities. If you want to work in Thailand, you will need to obtain a work permit and a non-immigrant visa specifically for employment purposes.

7. What is the difference between a single entry and multiple entry Thailand visa?


A single entry Thailand visa allows a traveler to enter Thailand only once during the validity of the visa, while a multiple entry Thailand visa allows for multiple entries into the country during the validity of the visa. A single entry visa is typically valid for 3 months from the date of issue, while a multiple entry visa can be valid for up to 1 year or more. Additionally, with a single entry visa, once the traveler exits Thailand, they will need to obtain a new visa if they plan to re-enter the country. With a multiple entry visa, the traveler can leave and re-enter Thailand as many times as they want within the validity period without needing to obtain a new visa each time.

8. Is travel insurance required for a Thailand visa?


No, travel insurance is not required for a Thailand visa. However, it is highly recommended to have travel insurance in case of unforeseen events such as medical emergencies or trip cancellations.

9, Are there any restrictions on the type of activities allowed on a tourist visa in Thailand?


Yes, there are restrictions on the type of activities allowed on a tourist visa in Thailand. The purpose of a tourist visa is for leisure travel and exploration, so activities related to business, employment, or study are not permitted. Examples of allowed activities include sightseeing, visiting cultural or historical sites, relaxing on beaches, participating in cooking classes or cultural workshops, and taking part in adventure excursions or water sports. It is important to note that any engaging in any illegal or immoral activities while holding a tourist visa is strictly prohibited and can result in legal consequences.

10. What are the penalties for overstaying my Thaivisa?


If you overstay your Thaivisa, you may face one or more of the following penalties:

1. Fines: Overstaying your Thaivisa will result in a daily fine of 500 baht for each day you overstay, up to a maximum of 20,000 baht.

2. Detention and deportation: In addition to fines, Thai immigration authorities may detain and deport individuals who overstay their Thaivisa. This can result in being banned from re-entering Thailand for a specified period of time.

3. Blacklisting: Overstaying your Thaivisa can also result in being blacklisted from entering Thailand in the future.

4. Difficulty obtaining future visas: Overstaying a visa can make it difficult to obtain future visas for Thailand or other countries, as it is seen as a violation of immigration laws.

Overall, overstaying your Thaivisa is taken seriously by Thai authorities and can have serious consequences. It is important to ensure that you have the correct visa and to comply with its expiration date. If you need to stay in Thailand longer than allowed by your visa, it is best to apply for an extension or obtain a new visa before your current one expires.

11. Do I need to show proof of onward travel when applying for a Thaivisa?


No, proof of onward travel is not required when applying for a Thai visa. However, you may be required to show proof of your return or onward travel upon arrival at the airport or land border. It is recommended to have this information readily available in case it is requested by immigration officials.

12. Can I apply for a Thaivisa online or do I need to visit an embassy or consulate?

The process for obtaining a Thai visa may vary depending on your nationality and the type of visa you are applying for. In many cases, visas can be applied for online through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs e-services portal or through the Thai Immigration Bureau’s website. However, some nationalities may still need to apply for a visa in person at their nearest Thai embassy or consulate. It is recommended to check with your local embassy or consulate or consult with an immigration lawyer for specific information regarding your situation.

13. What is the maximum length of stay allowed on a tourist Thaivisa?

As of June 2021, the maximum length of stay allowed on a tourist visa is 60 days.

14 .Can I enter and exit Thailand multiple times with a re-entry permit?

Yes, you can enter and exit Thailand multiple times with a re-entry permit. The re-entry permit allows you to leave and re-enter the country without invalidating your existing visa or entry stamp. However, the re-entry permit must be valid at the time of your re-entry into Thailand.

It is important to note that if your visa or entry stamp has expired, you will not be allowed back into Thailand even with a valid re-entry permit. Additionally, each entry into the country is subject to approval by immigration officers at the port of entry.

15. How do I obtain a re-entry permit for my Thaivisa?

To obtain a re-entry permit for your Thaivisa, you will need to go to the nearest Immigration office in Thailand and submit the following documents:

1. Filled-in TM.8 form
2. A copy of your passport page which contains your personal information and your visa
3. A copy of the departure card TM.6
4. A recent passport-size photo (4 x 6 cm)
5. The application fee (1,000 baht for single entry or 3,800 baht for multiple entries)

You may also be required to show proof of financial stability, such as bank statements or a letter from your sponsor.

After submitting all necessary documents and paying the fee, you will receive a receipt with a reference number. You can use this reference number to check the status of your re-entry permit application on the Immigration Bureau’s website.

It is important to note that you can only apply for a re-entry permit if your Thaivisa is still valid. If it has expired, you will need to first renew it before applying for a re-entry permit.

Once approved, you will be given a stamp on your passport indicating that you have been granted permission to re-enter Thailand while maintaining your current visa validity. This stamp is valid for one year from the date of issue and can be used any time during that period.

It is recommended to apply for a re-entry permit at least two weeks before your scheduled departure from Thailand to allow enough time for processing.

16.Where can I find information about different types of visas available for travelling to Thailand?


You can find information about different types of visas available for travelling to Thailand on the following websites:

1. Royal Thai Embassy or Consulate in your country: The official website of the Thai embassy or consulate in your country will have up-to-date information on all types of visas available for travel to Thailand, including application procedures and requirements.

2. Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kingdom of Thailand: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ website has a section dedicated to visas and immigration, where you can find detailed information about different types of visas, their requirements, and application process.

3. Thai Immigration Bureau: The Thai Immigration Bureau’s website provides information on all types of visas for non-immigrants, immigrants, and tourists, along with relevant forms and documents required for each type.

4. Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT): TAT’s website offers visa information specifically for tourists travelling to Thailand. It includes details on visa exemptions, visa on arrival, e-Visas, and other special entry programs.

5. Online forums and blogs: Many online forums and travel blogs have discussions on different types of visas available for travelling to Thailand. You can participate in these discussions or ask questions to get first-hand experiences from other travelers.

6. Travel agencies or tour operators: If you are planning a trip to Thailand through a travel agency or tour operator, they will be able to provide you with updated information on various visa options that best suit your travel plans.

7. Local Thai community organizations: If you have a local Thai community organization in your area, they might be able to help you with any specific queries regarding visas and immigration policies between your country and Thailand.

17.What are the requirements for obtaining a work permit in Thailand?


To obtain a work permit in Thailand, foreign nationals must meet the following requirements:

1. Valid non-immigrant visa: The first requirement for obtaining a work permit in Thailand is to hold a valid non-immigrant visa, such as a business visa or work visa.

2. Suitable job position: The job position must be suitable for foreigners and must not contradict the laws that govern the employment of foreigners in Thailand.

3. Qualifications and skills: The individual must possess the necessary qualifications or skills required for the job they are applying for.

4. Security and health requirements: Applicants must pass security and health checks, including submitting a medical certificate from an approved hospital in Thailand.

5. Work experience: Depending on the type of job being applied for, applicants may have to provide proof of previous work experience in their respective field.

6. Local company sponsorship: Foreigners must be employed by a locally registered company that is licensed to hire foreign workers.

7. Adequate finances: Applicants need to prove that they have sufficient funds to support themselves while living and working in Thailand.

8. Not prohibited from entering into the country: Individuals with certain criminal records or who have been deported from Thailand cannot apply for a work permit.

9. Approval from relevant government agencies: In some cases, approval from specific government agencies may be required before applying for a work permit, such as for jobs related to media or education.

10. Employment contract or letter of appointment: A signed employment contract or letter of appointment stating details such as salary, benefits and duration of employment is also required for obtaining a work permit.

11. Complete application form: Applicants must complete all relevant sections on the application form provided by the Department of Employment (DOE).

12. Supporting documents: Along with the application form, applicants must submit supporting documents such as passport copies, educational certificates, CV/Resume and other relevant documents specific to their job position.

13. Payment of fees: Applicants are required to pay the necessary application fee, which varies depending on the type of work permit being applied for.

14. Personal appearance: The applicant may be required to attend an interview or provide additional documents if requested by the relevant government agencies.

15. Age restriction: Foreigners must be at least 20 years old to apply for a work permit in Thailand.

16. Validity of work permit: Work permits are valid for up to one year and can be renewed annually, as long as all requirements are still met.

17. Other restrictions: Some professions are restricted for foreigners and require special permission before a work permit can be granted, such as jobs related to national security or public safety.

18.How long can I stay outside of Thailand with my re-entry permit before it expires?

A re-entry permit allows you to travel outside of Thailand and return without canceling your current non-immigrant visa. A single re-entry permit is valid for one single trip, meaning once you leave Thailand and use the permit to enter again, it will expire. If you have a multiple entry permit, it will remain valid until the expiration date printed on the permit. You can stay outside of Thailand for as long as you wish as long as your visa remains valid and your multiple entry re-entry permit has not expired.

19.Can I apply for permanent residency in Thailandwhile holding a non-immigrant visa?


Yes, you can apply for permanent residency in Thailand while holding a non-immigrant visa. However, your non-immigrant visa must be valid for at least three years and you must have been residing in Thailand continuously for at least three consecutive years before applying for permanent residency. You must also meet the other requirements set by the Thai government, such as having a good character and being able to support yourself financially.

20.What is the process for applying for an extension of stay inThailand once my current one expires upon returning from abroad witha re-entry permit?


To apply for an extension of stay in Thailand with a re-entry permit, you will need to follow these steps:

1. Before leaving Thailand with a re-entry permit, make sure your current stay permit is still valid. If it is about to expire, you should apply for an extension of stay before leaving the country.

2. Upon returning to Thailand, go through immigration and present your re-entry permit at the airport or border crossing.

3. Once you have entered Thailand successfully, within 30 days before your new permitted period of stay expires, you can submit an application for an extension of stay at any Immigration Office in Thailand.

4. Fill out the required application form and submit it along with the necessary documents such as a copy of your passport, departure card TM.6, previous foreigner’s arrival card TM.6 (if issued), proof of financial means (such as bank statements or income verification), and a photograph.

5. You may also need to provide additional documents depending on your reason for extending your stay in Thailand (for example: work permit or retirement visa).

6. After submitting all the required documents, you will need to pay the fees for the extension of stay.

7. Your application will be processed by Immigration officers and they may call you for an interview if necessary.

8. Once approved, you will receive a new departure card indicating your extended permitted period of stay.

9. Make sure to comply with the conditions of your extended stay and renew it before it expires again if needed.

Note: It is important to note that immigration laws and procedures are subject to change and may vary depending on personal circumstances. It is recommended to consult with Thai immigration officials or a reputable immigration lawyer for more information on specific cases.