Wondering how long it takes to get a Tourist Visa to Thailand? The timeline depends on your nationality, where you apply, the season, and whether you’re using Thailand’s online system or an embassy. Below is a practical breakdown so you can plan with confidence and avoid last‑minute stress.
Typical processing times
Here’s what most travellers experience today, assuming all documents are complete and correct:- Thai e‑Visa (Tourist Visa TR): about 5–10 working days after successful submission and payment. Some embassies post 3–5 working days; others advise up to 15 working days during peak season.
- Multiple‑Entry Tourist Visa (METV): often longer than single‑entry due to extra checks, roughly 7–15 working days.
- Visa on Arrival (for eligible nationalities): processed at the airport, usually 15–60+ minutes depending on queues and document readiness.
What affects how long it takes
- Seasonality and workload: November to February is the high season, so expect extra delays during these months.
- Document completeness and quality: Mismatched details (names, dates, flights), unclear scans, or missing proofs trigger queries that add days.
- Security and background checks: Random or case‑specific screenings can extend timelines.
- Payment confirmation: Unsettled or failed fees pause processing until resolved.
- Applications for minors or METV: Extra documents (consent letters, financials) may be required and reviewed more closely.
When should you apply?
- Best practice: apply 4–8 weeks before your trip. This covers processing, potential queries, and any appointment waits.
- Latest “safe” window for e‑Visa: at least 3 weeks before departure (earlier in peak season).
- Avoid applying too early: a Tourist Visa TR is typically valid for entry for 90 days from issuance; time your submission so your approval falls within your intended entry window.
How visa validity interacts with timing
- Tourist Visa (single entry TR): usually allows a stay of up to 60 days per entry. Many travelers can extend once in Thailand by 30 days at Immigration (fee applies).
- Validity for entry is commonly 90 days from the date the visa is issued. Plan your application so your travel date sits comfortably within that window.
Tips to avoid delays
- Match every detail across your passport, application, flight booking, and accommodation.
- Upload clear, color scans in the required format and size; use a compliant visa photo.
- Provide sufficient financial proof (e.g., recent bank statements), accommodation, and a flight itinerary aligned with your intended stay.
- Monitor your email (including spam) for embassy queries and respond quickly.
- Account for Thai and local consular public holidays as they pause processing during these days.
FAQs about timing
- Is there paid “express” processing? Generally no. Thai missions don’t offer official paid priority for tourist visas. Urgent cases may be considered at the consulate’s discretion, but are not guaranteed.
- Do weekends and holidays count? Processing runs on working days only. Thai and local holidays can add several days.
- Do I submit my passport for the e‑Visa? Thailand’s e‑Visa is typically stickerless, meaning that you upload documents online and receive an approval to present with your passport on arrival.
- How long does Visa on Arrival take? It varies by airport and queue, plan for 15 minutes to over an hour. Pre‑filling forms and having cash/required documents ready helps.
