Goodbye to hassle: UAE residents can apply for Thailand e-Visa starting January 1: Details inside

Say goodbye to hassle and hello to seamless experience. Starting January 1, 2025, UAE residents can apply for a Thailand e-Visa. This is going to be a gamechanger for so many reasons. Let’s analyse them in subsequent sections.

There is no longer a need to submit passports and original supporting documents in person at the Royal Thai Embassy/Consulate-General, according to an official notice. No visa applications are accepted during the transition period: December 25-31.

Thailand e-Visa for UAE residents: Process explained

Starting next year, UAE residents are no longer required to submit passports and supporting documents in person. If the e-Visa application has been green-lighted, a confirmation e-mail shall be sent to applicants. This is printable.

1. Eligibility

From January 1, all foreign nationals currently in the UAE and requiring a visa to enter Thailand are eligible to apply for an e-Visa. Please visit the Thai e-Visa platform (thaievisa.go.th) for eligibility and frequently asked questions regarding the application.

2. Process and payment

There is no need for in-person submission of documents at the Royal Thai Embassy/Consulate-General. UAE residents need to upload all required documents through the official e-Visa portal only. Complete the process through that portal only.

A visa fee needs to be paid through the portal. The Embassy and Consulate-General have not authorised any agencies to process the applications on behalf of applicants. If the person is located in any country outside of the UAE, the application shall be rejected.

Thailand e-Visas are non-transferable and non-refundable. Please ensure the accuracy and spelling of all information before completing the submission process. Errors and discrepancies are likely to trigger rejection of the application.

Thailand e-Visa fee: Dh400 (nearly $109) for a 60-day stay in Thailand

3. Details of required documents

UAE residents looking for Thailand e-Visas are required to have a valid passport. Upload a recent passport-size photograph that meets the specified guidelines. The itinerary ticket(s) need to be issued by the airlines only.

UAE applicants also need to submit a proof of accomodation in Thailand. They are required to share a document indicating current location. It can be a valid UAE residence visa or a valid UAE’s resident identity card.

The applicants from the UAE should monitor their registered email for additional document requests and updates. The Royal Thai Embassy/Consulate-General hold the right to request for any additional documents or in-person meetings.

4. Processing time

There is no express visa option. The Royal Thai Embassy/Consulate-General recommends UAE applicants planning their trips to Thailand at least 20-30 days before departure. e-Visa processing is likely to take up to 5-20 days from the date of payment.

5. e-Visa confirmation

Once the e-Visa confirmation has been sent to the UAE applicants’ registered e-mail, it is time to print a hard copy of the document and save a digital copy. Nonetheless, the Royal Thai Embassy/Consulate-General holds the right to reject any application.

6. Entry requirements and duration of stay

UAE applicants are required to carry their passport, printed e-Visa, proof of accomodation and return ticket to facilitate a seamless journey. Overstaying in Thailand is likely to lead to fines, detention or deportation.

7. Emergency contacts

Foreign nationals in the UAE are required to keep contact details of their country’s embassy or consulate in Thailand for assistance. They can keep a note of Thai emergency numbers, too – such as 1155 for tourist police.

Thailand e-Visa for UAE residents: Significance

This global e-Visa launch is not just about ensuring a seamless experience. It is part of Thailand’s comprehensive plan to lure more visitors from across the globe. For foreign nations in the UAE, this means less stress and more time dreaming about the tropical paradise.

Thailand’s e-Visa system is nothing but a sizeable leap in modernising travel. Irrespective of your preferred locations, be it Bangkok’s vibrant streets or Phuket’s serene beaches, the journey starts from you pressing some buttons only.

The UAE is part of the list of countries and territories entitled for visa exemption for the purpose of tourism and short-term business engagements for a period not exceeding 60 days. For more details on the e-Visa system, check out the Thai e-Visa platform.

Don't miss out on the Latest Updates! Join our official WhatsApp channel and follow us on YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok for Breaking News.

Send your press releases to: pressrelease@traveltodubai.com