Visa Exemption vs Visa on Arrival (VOA)
Visa Exemption and Visa on Arrival are not the same. Visa Exemption means eligible travellers can enter Thailand for free without applying for a visa in advance. Visa on Arrival, on the other hand, requires travellers to apply for and pay for a short-term visa at the airport upon arrival.
Always check your passport’s current eligibility and permitted length of stay before traveling.
Quick decision (30 seconds)
Choose Visa Exemption if…
- Your passport is on the visa exemption list
- You want the simplest entry process
- You’re visiting for tourism
Choose Visa on Arrival if…
- Your passport qualifies for VOA but not exemption
- You are staying for tourism (commonly up to 15 days)
- You are prepared to pay the fee (commonly 2,000 THB)
What to Prepare (Both Options)
- Passport (recommended 6+ months validity)
- Onward or return ticket
- Accommodation details
- Proof of funds if requested (At least 10,000 THB)
- Complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) before departure
Visa on Arrival (VOA) - Additional Requirements
- Completed VOA application form
- Passport photo, taken within 6 months (4x6 cm)
- Visa fee (cash recommended)
- Proof of funds if requested (At least 10,000 THB)
- Confirmed onward ticket within permitted stay
Want to Stay Longer?
If eligible, you may apply for a 30-day tourist extension at a local immigration office before your permitted stay expires.
Visa on Arrival extensions are more limited and not always guaranteed.
FAQ
Which is better - Visa Exemption or VOA?+
Visa Exemption is better because, it is free and often allows a longer stay. VOA is for nationalities that are not eligible for visa exemption.
How long can I stay under Visa on Arrival?+
Visa on Arrival typically allows a shorter stay (commonly around 15 days). Extension options are limited and not guaranteed.
Can I work under Visa Exemption or VOA?+
No. Neither Visa Exemption nor Visa on Arrival allows you to work in Thailand.
Can I enter Thailand multiple times on Visa Exemption?+
Yes, you can enter Thailand multiple times under Visa Exemption, as long as your nationality is eligible.
However, immigration officers have discretion to refuse entry if they believe you are using visa exemption to live in Thailand long-term rather than for genuine tourism. There is no officially published annual limit on entries.
- Frequent back-to-back entries may raise questions.
- You may be asked to show proof of funds.
- You may be asked to show an onward ticket.
- You may be asked to show accommodation details.
If my passport stamp says 7 August, when do I need to leave Thailand?+
If your permitted stay stamp shows 7 August, you should depart Thailand before 11:59 PM on 7 August. Do not stay past midnight into 8 August. To reduce risk, leave earlier in the day in case of delays or checkpoint issues.
• Applying for VOA when eligible for Visa Exemption
• Arriving without an onward ticket
• Not bringing a photo or cash (VOA)
• Not completing TDAC before arrival