DeskReport
Thailand has re-imposed a requirement for applicants to provide financial proof of their financial means for tourist visas, effective from May 2020. The rule was temporarily suspended in November 2023 to facilitate post-pandemic travel. Under the new rules, applicants will be required to prove their financial ability to support themselves during their stay in Thailand.
Applicants will now have to submit proof of financial means of at least 20,000 Thai baht (about $550), the Economic Times reported, citing Thailand’s official e-visa portal. Acceptable documents include bank statements for the last three months or a letter of sponsorship if someone else is paying for the trip. Thai embassies around the world, including in the United States, France and Norway, are enforcing the rule.
In addition to financial documents, tourist visa applicants must also submit the following documents:
* Passport valid for at least six months
* Recent passport-sized photograph
* Proof of residence, such as a utility bill or rental agreement
* On- and off-tickets that confirm entry and exit dates
* Accommodation details, such as hotel bookings or host information
These documents are required for a single-entry tourist visa. This type of visa usually allows a stay of up to 60 days.
Currently, passport holders from 93 countries can stay in Thailand for up to 60 days without a visa. However, this policy is also under review. Due to concerns about visa abuse, Thai authorities are considering reducing the visa-free stay period to 30 days. No official announcement has been made yet, but an update may be provided in the coming months.
The requirement for proof of funds is formally linked to the tourist visa application. However, travelers on an on-arrival visa should be aware that Thai immigration officials may ask for proof of sufficient funds upon entry. This is not always enforced, but officials have the right to ask for documentation in this regard. Failure to provide proof may also result in entry being denied.
