Thailand is a bucket-list travel destination for many Britons, but holidaymakers must be aware of essential visa requirements before planning their trip.
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) told travellers: “This advice reflects the UK Government’s understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK, for the most common types of travel.
“The authorities in Thailand set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Royal Thai Embassy in the UK.”
The FCDO’s visa requirements guidance reads: “If you are arriving by air or land you can enter Thailand without a visa (visa exemption) for the purposes of tourism, business engagements, urgent or ad-hoc work for up to 60 days. For more information, read the Thai government’s guidance on visas.”
Britons should consult both the FCDO and the Thai government’s guidance on visas
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The official website for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kingdom of Thailand reads: “Thailand’s new visa measures are now effective.
“On July 15, 2024, Thailand announced new visa measures to enhance Thailand’s tourism and economy, which took effect on July 15, 2024.”
Travellers should consult Thailand’s guidance on the Non-Ed Plus Visa, Destination Thailand Visa (DTV), Visa On Arrival (VOA) and Visa Exemption (60 days).
The FCDO continued: “The period of stay can be extended for another period not exceeding 30 days.
“If you intend to stay longer (for work, study or other reasons) you need a visa before you travel.
“For more information on visas or entry requirements, contact the Royal Thai Embassy or local Immigration Office.”
The FCDO provides crucial information on what happens if Britons overstay their visa.
Britons were warned: “If you stay beyond the period of your visa, you will be fined 500 Thai baht a day up to a maximum of 20,000 baht.
“You risk being held in detention, deported at your own expense, and banned from re-entering Thailand for up to 10 years.”
The UK Government warned holidaymakers that “conditions in detention centres can be harsh”.
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