Planning that dreamy Thailand escape and wondering—do Indians need a visa, yaar?
Good news: nope! Indian passport holders can enter visa-free for up to 60 days for tourism or short business. Bilkul simple.
But before you start celebrating, thoda prep is still needed. Make sure you’ve got the right documents, meet entry rules, and stay connected with a solid eSIM. Thoda effort now, zero stress later.
We will guide you through everything you need to know:
- Thailand’s visa-free policy for Indians
- Required documents, including the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC)
- Permitted stay and multiple entries
- Ports of entry: major airports, regional airports, and land borders
- Safety and arrival protocols
- Health declarations and basic insurance tips
- Five must-try experiences, especially during Songkran
- Why getting a Thailand eSIM should be your first travel move
Consider this your ultimate pre-departure checklist. Bas bag pack karo, tickets book karo, aur chalo. Full-on mast trip incoming.
Do Indians Need A Visa To Enter Thailand?
Nope, you don't need a visa for Thailand if you're visiting for tourism or short business trips. Thailand's visa-free policy for Indian passport holders is quite generous, allowing you to stay up to 60 days without needing to fill out a single visa form.
This covers everything from beach and temple tours to attending business meetings or catching up with family who live there.
What's even better? You can visit Thailand multiple times a year.
Each time you enter, your 60-day clock resets, so you could spend two months island hopping in February, head home, then come back in September for a completely different adventure. Simply show up with the necessary documents, and you're all set.
Entry Requirements and Required Documents
Passport Validity
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Your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of arrival in Thailand. Immigration doesn't mess around with this rule, so check your expiry date before you book anything.
Ensure you have at least two blank pages in your passport for entry and exit stamps. You'll also want to make sure your passport isn't held together with prayers and tape.
When you reach immigration, they'll ask basic questions about your trip:
- Why you're visiting
- Where you'll be staying
- How long you're staying
Nothing intense, just confirming you're there for legit reasons. Keep your hotel booking and flight details easy to access, and you'll be through in between 5 and 10 minutes.
Digital Arrival Card (TDAC)
Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) form
As of May 2025, Thailand has rolled out the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) to replace the old paper arrival/departure cards.
Now you fill the Thailand Digital Arrival Card online before you leave home. It wants your basic info:
- Where you're staying
- What you do for work
- Why you're visiting and other details
All these are standard details that can be completed in approximately ten minutes. Once you submit it, you get a QR code to show at immigration with your passport.
This digital setup speeds things up massively and saves you from juggling pens and forms while trying to keep track of your luggage. Just knock it out a day or two before your flight.
Proof of Onward Travel
Immigration wants evidence you're planning to leave within your 60 days.
Usually, this means your return ticket to India or a flight to wherever you're heading next if you're bouncing around Southeast Asia. Keep it handy on your phone or printed, because they will check.
Some people book refundable tickets or use onward travel booking services, but honestly, just having your actual return flight sorted makes everything smoother.
Immigration officers are generally pretty chill, but they need to see that you have an exit plan.
Duration of Stay
You get 60 days starting from the moment you step off the plane in Thailand.
That's two full months to explore cities, islands, mountains, jungles, whatever catches your interest. Your entry stamp shows exactly when your time runs out, so you'll always know where you stand.
There's no official cap on how many times you can use this visa-free entry in a year.
That said, if you're flying in every other month, immigration might start wondering if you're actually living there rather than visiting. Be reasonable about it and you won't have issues.
Ports of Entry for Indian Travellers
International Airports
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Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok handles most international arrivals. It's massive, modern, well-organised, and gets you into the city pretty easily.
Don Mueang Airport also operates in Bangkok, mostly for budget carriers and domestic connections if you want to hop to another Thai city after landing immediately.
Flying straight into Phuket (from Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Kolkata) or Koh Samui (from Chennai, Kolkata, and Mumbai) makes sense if you're all about the beaches and want to skip Bangkok entirely.
Chiang Mai Airport drops you right in northern Thailand's cultural heartland, perfect if temples and mountains are your thing rather than city chaos.
Regional Airports
Thailand's smaller airports let you dodge the crowds and land closer to areas most tourists skip.
Hat Yai Airport near Malaysia is great for exploring authentic southern Thailand. Udon Thani and Khon Kaen in the northeast get you near the Mekong River and into regions where you'll see traditional Thai life without the tourist veneer.
These regional spots are way more relaxed than Bangkok's busy terminals. You'll clear immigration faster and start exploring without fighting crowds or sitting in traffic forever.
Land Border Crossings
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If you’re already travelling around Southeast Asia, you can just walk or drive into Thailand from Malaysia, Cambodia, or Laos.
Popular crossings include Padang Besar from Malaysia, Poipet from Cambodia, and several points along the Laos border. Your 60-day visa-free status works the same way regardless of how you enter.
Land borders often raise more questions about your travel plans than airports do. So, have your documents organised and be ready to explain where you're going and when you're leaving.
Nothing sketchy, just more thorough than the quick airport experience.
Health Declaration
Currently, Thailand doesn't require COVID-19 health declarations or mandatory forms for Indian travellers.
But these rules can change quickly depending on global developments, so check with your airline or Thailand's health ministry website before you fly.
If health screenings come back, they typically ask about recent illnesses, symptoms, or visits to high-risk areas.
Stay updated on official guidelines to avoid being blindsided at the airport with unfamiliar forms.
Safety and Security
Earthquake Alert System Interface
Thailand ranks among Southeast Asia's safest countries, making it solid for solo travellers, families, or anyone experiencing Asia for the first time.
Violent crime is rare, so you can explore day and night without constantly looking over your shoulder. Still, keep your wits about you like you would anywhere.
Natural occurrences like monsoon floods and occasional earthquakes do happen. Thailand's alert systems will notify your phone during emergencies, which helps. Save these numbers:
- Tourist Police (1155)
- Regular Police (191)
- Medical Emergency (1669)
Also, travel insurance isn't mandatory for entry, but get some anyway because hospital bills at private facilities can hurt your wallet fast.
Permissions and Restrictions in Thailand
What You CAN Do with Visa-Free Entry
Your 60-day visa-free stamp covers:
- Tourism, sightseeing, temple visits, beach days, and eating ridiculous amounts of incredible food.
- Business activities, such as meetings, conferences, trade shows, and networking events, are also acceptable.
- Visiting friends or family living in Thailand is allowed, and using the country as a transit hub while exploring Asia is also permitted.
- Short programs, such as cooking classes, Muay Thai camps, or meditation retreats, are a good fit.
This flexibility means you can plan anything from spontaneous adventures to detailed cultural experiences without worrying about visa restrictions.
What You CANNOT Do with Visa-Free Entry
Any paid work is entirely off the table. Employment, freelancing, remote work, consulting, teaching, all of it requires proper work authorisation; you can't get on a visa-free entry.
You also can't enrol in formal education like university programs, official language schools, or vocational training that ends with certification.
Opening bank accounts, starting businesses, signing long-term rental agreements, or moving toward permanent residency are all prohibited.
And whatever you do, don't overstay your 60 days without first obtaining an extension. Overstaying can result in fines and may jeopardise your chances of returning to Thailand later.
Top 5 Things Indians Can Do in Thailand
Explore Bangkok's Street Food Scene
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Bangkok’s street food is where Thai cuisine truly comes alive. Think sizzling pad thai, heavenly green curry, and mango sticky rice that hits just right—all at wallet-friendly prices.
Head to Chatuchak or any night market and follow the scent of spicy woks and grilled goodness. Don’t miss som tam and classic Thai curries. It’s a flavour-packed experience you won’t forget.
- Location/Address: Street food available throughout Bangkok; Chatuchak Weekend Market (Kampaeng Phet Road); Various night markets citywide
- Price Range: ₹30-150 per dish at street stalls; ₹200-500 at night markets
- Best For: Food lovers, cultural immersion, budget travellers, authentic local experiences
Visit Southern Thailand's Best Islands
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The southern islands are what tropical dreams are made of. Phuket brings luxury and nightlife, plus boat rides to the famous Phi Phi Islands.
Each island has its own vibe. Koh Samui is more polished, while Koh Tao is a diver’s paradise for backpackers.
Want fewer crowds? Head to Koh Lanta or Koh Chang for clear waters, epic snorkelling, and proper chill vibes.
Ferries make island-hopping a breeze, so you can explore until you find your perfect slice of paradise.
- Location/Address: Various islands in southern Thailand; Phuket, Koh Samui, Koh Tao, Koh Phi Phi are accessible by ferry and domestic flights
- Price Range: ₹800-5000 per night accommodation; ₹300-800 for ferry tickets between islands
- Best For: Beach lovers, water sports enthusiasts, photography, romantic getaways, adventure seekers
Experience Chiang Mai's Culture
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Chiang Mai is where you’ll find the heart of Thailand. Ancient temples meet trendy cafés, and local markets sit alongside art galleries.
Explore the Old City’s 300+ temples or head up to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep for stunning city views. Beyond the temples, there’s jungle trekking, white-water rafting, and ethical elephant sanctuaries.
Don’t miss the Sunday Walking Street, where the whole city turns into a buzzing market full of handmade crafts and regional dishes you won’t find in Bangkok.
- Location/Address: Chiang Mai Old City and surrounding areas; Wat Doi Suthep (15km from city centre); Sunday Walking Street (Ratchadamnoen Road)
- Price Range: ₹100-300 temple entrance fees; ₹2000-4000 for day trips and activities
- Best For: History buffs, culture seekers, outdoor adventurers, photography enthusiasts, spiritual experiences
Visit Ancient Sites in Ayutthaya
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Ayutthaya is an easy day trip from Bangkok, packed with massive temple ruins from Thailand’s golden age.
Once the capital, it rivals Angkor Wat with ancient temples, giant Buddha statues, and stunning architecture. Rent a bike to explore at your own pace and imagine the bustling city it once was.
Don’t miss the Buddha head entwined in tree roots at Wat Mahathat or sunset views from Wat Chaiwatthanaram.
- Location/Address: Ayutthaya Historical Park, Ayutthaya Province (80km north of Bangkok, accessible by train or bus)
- Price Range: ₹150-300 entrance fees per temple complex; ₹100-200 bicycle rental per day
- Best For: History lovers, photography enthusiasts, day trips from Bangkok, cultural exploration
Thai Spa and Wellness
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Thailand is largely credited with inventing traditional massage and wellness treatments, which have become renowned for their healing properties.
You can visit luxurious spa resorts in Koh Samui or authentic street-side massage parlours in Bangkok. Thai massage actually works on your pressure points and stretches you out in ways you didn't know you needed.
Traditional Thai massage utilises stretching and pressure points to relieve tension and enhance flexibility, while herbal steam treatments and oil massages are ideal for relaxation after a day of walking around temples.
- Location/Address: Available throughout Thailand; luxury spas in resort areas; authentic massage shops in every city and town
- Price Range: ₹300-800 for traditional massage; ₹2000-8000 for luxury spa treatments
- Best For: Relaxation seekers, wellness enthusiasts, couples' retreats, recovery after long travel days
Tips for Planning Your Thailand Trip
Staying Connected in Thailand
You'll want internet for maps, menu translations, activity bookings, and staying in touch, especially during your 60-day travel period.
Thailand has an okay coverage in tourist areas, but expect spotty service on remote islands and in mountainous regions. An eSIM is genuinely the smartest choice.
You can purchase and activate a Thailand eSIM before leaving India, giving you connectivity the instant you land.
No airport line waiting for SIM cards, no fiddling with tiny plastic pieces, and no risk of losing your Indian SIM during your travels.
Best Time to Visit
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Thailand’s tropical weather means it’s warm all year, but timing matters.
November to February is the sweet spot. It’s cool, dry, and perfect for sightseeing. March to May gets hot, but you’ll enjoy fewer crowds and lower prices.
Rainy season (June to October) brings lush greenery and dramatic skies, with quick afternoon showers.
Pack light, breathable clothes and keep an umbrella handy—tropical weather moves fast!
Language and Communication
You’ll get by just fine in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and beach towns, where hotel and tour staff usually speak basic English.
Download a translation app and learn a few Thai phrases like sawasdee (hello), kob kun ka/krap (thank you), and mai pen rai (no problem).
Locals love the effort, and it often leads to warmer vibes and better tips!
H2: Time to Pack Your Bags
Thailand makes it super easy for Indian travellers. No visa needed and 60 full days to play with.
You’ll have plenty of time to beach-hop, temple-run, and eat your weight in street food. The entry is smooth, the vibes are welcoming, and the toughest call is which island to visit first.
Want zero airport faff? Grab an Airalo eSIM before you land. You’ll be online instantly—no dodgy WiFi or SIM card drama—so you can book, map, translate, and post without skipping a beat.
Because adventure shouldn't come with a connectivity headache.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Thailand completely visa-free for Indians?
Yes, Indian passport holders enter Thailand without a visa and stay up to 60 days for tourism and short business purposes. This visa-free arrangement has been extended indefinitely and continues until further notice.
Can I work in Thailand on a visa-free entry?
Absolutely not. Visa-free entry is only permitted for tourism and brief business activities, including meetings and conferences. Any employment, freelance work, or income-generating activities require proper work permits and visas obtained before arrival.
How many times can I use the visa-free entry per year?
There's no official limit on visa-free entries. Still, immigration officers may question frequent visits if they suspect you're attempting to live in Thailand permanently rather than genuinely visiting as a tourist.
What happens if I overstay my 60-day limit?
Overstaying results in fines of 500 Thai Baht per day (approximately 1,100 rupees), possible detention, and future entry restrictions. Even a single day of overstaying can create serious problems, so plan your departure carefully and avoid the risk.
Can I extend my 60-day visa-free stay?
Yes, you can request a 30-day extension at any Thai immigration office for 1,900 Thai Baht (approximately 4,200 rupees). This extension cannot be renewed, and it will limit your total stay to a maximum of 90 days per entry.
Do I need travel insurance for Thailand?
Travel insurance isn't required for entry, but it's strongly recommended to cover potential medical costs, which can become substantial at private hospitals serving international patients throughout Thailand.
