Thailand reinstates financial proof requirement for tourist visas

Thailand has reinstated the requirement for tourist visa applicants to provide financial proof, effective May 2025. This measure, which was temporarily suspended in November 2023 to facilitate post-pandemic travel, mandates that all applicants demonstrate the ability to support themselves during their stay.

According to Thailand’s official e-Visa portal, applicants must now submit financial evidence showing a minimum of 20,000 Thai Baht (approximately USD 550 or EUR 510). Acceptable documents include bank statements from the last three months or a sponsorship letter if the trip is being financed by someone else. This requirement is being enforced by Thai embassies worldwide, including those in the United States, France, and Norway.

In addition to financial documentation, tourist visa applicants must provide the following:

• A passport valid for at least six months
  
• A recent passport-sized photograph
  
• Proof of residence, such as utility bills or rental agreements
  
• A round-trip ticket confirming entry and exit
  
• Accommodation details, either hotel bookings or host information

These documents are required for single-entry tourist visa applications, which typically allow stays of up to 60 days.

Currently, passport holders from 93 countries can enter Thailand visa-free for stays of up to 60 days. However, this policy is under review, with Thai authorities considering reducing the visa-free stay to 30 days due to concerns over visa misuse. No official announcement has been made yet, but updates are expected in the coming months.

While the financial proof requirement is officially tied to tourist visa applications, travellers using the Visa on Arrival (VoA) option should be aware that Thai immigration officers may request proof of sufficient funds at the point of entry. Although not always enforced, officers have the authority to ask for documentation, and in the absence of proof, entry can be denied.