A foreigner may do a visa-free visit to Thailand but the period of stay in the Kingdom will be limited with the number of days dependent on his nationality as a citizen of certain country which is included in the Tourist Visa Exemption list. If he wants to stay for tourism or medical purposes, then he has to apply for a Tourist Visa.
See the thaivisa-news.com Rules and Regulations for Medical Tourism in Thailand page.
This visa allows its holder to stay in for 3 months (Single Entry) and 6 months (Double/Triple Entry) for Tourism and even for Medical purposes.
Required Documents for Thai Tourist Visa
The applicant must submit the following documents:
- Passport or a travel document that is valid for not less than 6 months.
- Fully filled-up visa application form.
- Two pieces recent photos (2×2 in size).
- A doctor/hospital issued letter if the purpose of going to Thailand is for medical treatment.
- Additional documents if needed.
Thai Tourist Visa Validity
The holder of a tourist visa will be allowed to stay in the Kingdom for 30 or 60 days, if he entered Thailand through the international airport. If he entered the Kingdom through a land border, he will have a permission to stay for 15 days.
Visa Extension
The individual may also choose to stay longer in Thailand by applying for an extension of stay. Furthermore, he may also choose to change his visa type while in the Kingdom but all of these are dependent on the discretion of the officer handling his application.
Check the thaiembassy.com page: Would an extension of stay be possible?
Thai Tourist Visa Restriction
When granted with a tourist visa, the individual is not allowed to seek employment or be employed in Thailand. Also, his activities must be for tourism purposes only and so conducting business activities is also prohibited. He has no other option but to comply with these restrictions otherwise he may viewed to have committed violations on Thai immigration laws and may be dealt accordingly.