By Mewati Sitaram
In a significant development for Indian travellers, the Royal Thai Embassy has confirmed that starting 1 January 2025, Indian passport holders will be able to apply for an e-visa to travel to Thailand. This new system is designed to simplify the visa application process, allowing Indian nationals to apply online through the official website: https://www.thaievisa.go.th.
The e-visa system will handle all types of visa applications, and once submitted, applications will be processed within approximately 14 working days from the date the visa fee receipt is issued. This offers a more efficient and streamlined process compared to traditional visa methods.
Importantly, the current 60-day visa exemption policy for Indian passport holders traveling to Thailand for tourism or short business trips will continue to apply until further notice. This exemption allows Indian nationals to travel without the need for a visa for a stay of up to 60 days, providing more convenience for short-term visitors.
For travelers applying under the existing visa system, ordinary passport holders must submit their applications through designated visa processing companies by 16 December 2024. After this date, the new e-visa process will be the primary method for applying for a visa to Thailand.
This move is part of Thailand’s efforts to improve travel efficiency and accessibility for international visitors, especially from high-volume travel markets like India.
Editor in Chief : Mewati SItaram
