New e-visa service with digital visa
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs started implementing an e-visa service using a visa sticker in passports in certain countries in 2018. From 27 September 2021 onward, the Thai Consul in certain countries, such as the United States, Canada, Korea, and China, will launch an e-visa service with a digital visa to reduce the steps needed to obtain a visa.
Keywords: Mazars, Thailand, Legal, Ministry of Foreign Affairs,Thai Consul, e-visa service, Digital visa, Immigration Act
15 October 2021
Under this new system, those who wish to apply for a visa to enter Thailand will register on the website and complete the application form and pay fees through an e-payment system. After the request is approved, confirmation of approval will be sent to the applicant by email. The applicant can print the email to show when needed, such as when boarding an airplane or when entering Thailand.
However, under Section 12 (1) of the Immigration Act, 2522 B.E.*, it is still necessary to have a visa sticker in a passport when applying to extend a visa in Thailand. Foreigners who have obtained digital visas will have to check with the immigration authorities whether confirmation of approval previously sent by email is sufficient to apply for a visa extension in Thailand.
*Office of the Council of State
References:
Digital e-visa system user manual
Royal Thai Embassy dated 31 August 2021
Royal Thai Consulate – General dated 2 September 2021
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