In a significant development, the Royal Thai Embassy in New Delhi has announced the launch of e-visa facilities for Indian passport holders, effective January 1, 2025. This new system is designed to simplify the visa application process, offering applicants the convenience of submitting applications online and paying through offline methods, as per an official statement from the embassy.
While the e-visa system rolls out, Indian regular passport holders will continue to enjoy the existing 60-day visa exemption for tourism and short business trips until further notice. However, those opting for the e-visa will need to pay a non-refundable visa fee. Details about offline payment options will be provided by the respective Embassy and Consulate-Generals.
The e-visa processing time is expected to take around 14 days after the visa fee is received. Applicants must submit their applications through Thailand’s official e-visa portal. The embassy has also shared important deadlines for transitioning to the new system:
Ordinary passport applications via processing agencies will only be accepted until December 16, 2024.
Diplomatic and official passport applications submitted directly to the Embassy or Consulate-Generals will be accepted until December 24, 2024.
Thailand remains a favorite destination for Indian travelers, known for its vibrant cities and stunning islands. Popular hotspots like Bangkok, Pattaya, Phuket, Chiang Mai, and Koh Samui continue to attract millions of Indian tourists annually. The country has also emerged as a preferred destination for Indian weddings and honeymoons, solidifying its reputation as a top travel spot.
In 2019, over 2 million Indian tourists visited Thailand, marking a substantial rise compared to previous years. The post-pandemic recovery has further boosted Thailand’s tourism-based economy, reaffirming its status as a top destination for Indian travelers.
For added convenience, Indian nationals can still avail of the visa-on-arrival option for last-minute travel plans. By introducing the e-visa facility, Thailand aims to enhance the travel experience for Indian tourists while maintaining its position as a leading destination in Southeast Asia.
