India’s new travel advisory for Thailand: What you need to know

The Embassy of India in Bangkok has issued a fresh advisory for Indian nationals travelling to Thailand. (Photo: Wikimedia commons/ File)

As Thailand remains a top travel destination for Indians, but a fresh advisory from the Indian Embassy in Bangkok means travellers now need to pay closer attention before booking that ticket. Indian nationals planning to visit Thailand must comply with updated entry requirements, the Indian Embassy in Bangkok said in a fresh advisory, stressing the need to carry mandatory documents including proof of funds of at least 20,000 Thai Baht (around ₹58,000).

The advisory, issued on July 2, comes after Thailand ended visa-free entry for Indian passport holders, making it essential for travellers to prepare documentation in advance to avoid issues at immigration.

“Indian travellers are advised to carry all necessary documents and verify requirements before departure to ensure a smooth entry into Thailand,” the embassy said.

It added that immigration authorities may request proof of funds and supporting travel documents during checks.

What travellers must carry

The embassy has outlined a detailed checklist that passengers should follow before departure:

  • A passport with at least six months’ validity from the date of arrival
  • Confirmed return or onward tickets
  • Hotel booking confirmations
  • A clear travel itinerary

Travellers must also complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) within 72 hours before arrival. The form, submitted online, generates a QR code that may be required at immigration.

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Visa rules and cash requirement

The advisory emphasises that travellers should obtain the correct visa depending on the purpose of their visit.

“Passengers using Visa on Arrival or visa waiver facilities should carry at least 20,000 Thai Baht per person in cash,” the embassy said, noting that failure to show sufficient funds could lead to entry issues.

Warning for jobseekers

The embassy has cautioned against entering Thailand on a tourist visa for employment purposes.

“Travellers with job offers must obtain an appropriate visa prior to travel. Using tourist provisions for employment may violate local laws,” it said.

Advice for transit passengers

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Passengers transiting through Thailand have also been asked to carry complete documentation for their final destination, including valid visas and onward travel tickets.

Embassy’s 11-point checklist

The advisory lists the following key steps:

  • Carry a passport with at least six months’ validity
  • Keep confirmed return tickets
  • Carry proof of hotel bookings
  • Maintain a clear travel itinerary
  • Complete TDAC within 72 hours before arrival
  • Obtain the correct visa
  • Carry at least THB 20,000 (₹58,000 approx.) in cash
  • Keep documents ready at immigration
  • Ensure each traveller carries their own documents
  • Do not use tourist visas for employment
  • Transit passengers must carry onward travel documents and visas.

The embassy reiterated that travellers should double-check all requirements before flying to avoid delays or denial of entry upon arrival in Thailand.