Thailand Tightens Border Controls: ETA to Replace Visa-Exemption

The Thai government has implemented a new rule mandating visas for all travelers from 93 countries that previously enjoyed visa-free entry to Thailand, including Indonesia. Now, all travelers except those from Cambodia, Laos, and Malaysia are REQUIRED to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) online before arrival.

What is ETA?

Electronic Travel Authorization or ETA is an electronic travel permit, which is mandatory for all visa-exempt travelers arriving in Thailand by air, land, or sea. Travelers from 93 countries must apply for an ETA online before arrival. The Thailand ETA aims to enhance border security and streamline entry procedures for travelers.

Here is a summary of the Thailand Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA):

• Cost of a Thailand ETA*: FREE

• ETA Thailand Application Process: 24 Hours before arrival

  *While the fee for a Thailand ETA is currently free, this may change in the future.

List of countries requiring ETA:

• Africa

  Mauritius, Morocco, South Africa

• Americas

  Brazil, Canada, Colombia, Cuba, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Guatemala, Jamaica, Mexico, Panama, Peru, Trinidad and Tobago, United States, Uruguay

• East/Central Asia

  Bhutan, Brunei, Cambodia, China, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Japan, Kazakhstan, Laos, Macao, Malaysia, Maldives, Mongolia, Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Uzbekistan, Vietnam

• Europe

  Albania, Andorra, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Georgia, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Kosovo, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Russia, San Marino, Slovak Republic, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Ukraine, United Kingdom

• Middle East

  Bahrain, Cyprus, Israel, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, United Arab Emirates

• Oceania

  Australia, Fiji, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Tonga.

How to Apply for an ETA:

Here are the steps to apply for an ETA:

1. Visit the website: Go to www.thaievisa.go.th

2. Create an account: Fill in the required information and create a secure password.

3. Complete the application form: Fill out the ETA application form completely, including your full name, date of birth, address, passport number, and purpose of your visit to Thailand.

4. Upload supporting documents: Such as a copy of your passport, a photo ID, and proof of your flight ticket or travel itinerary.

5. Done! Wait for the ETA processing, the processing time may vary. The result of the eVisa application will be confirmed via email. Make sure to print or save a copy of this confirmation as proof when entering Thailand. The ETA result will be in the form of a barcode.

Remember to check the official Thai government website for the most up-to-date information and any specific requirements.

By following these steps, you can successfully apply for a Thailand ETA and ensure a smooth entry into the country.

Et voilà, are you ready to have a vacation in Thailand?