Thailand has reintroduced the requirement to show financial proof for tourist visa applicants, alongside launching a mandatory Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) for all travelers. With potential changes to visa-free stay durations also under review, here’s a detailed guide to navigating Thailand’s updated travel rules in 2025.
As of May 2025, Thailand has reinstated the requirement to show financial proof for tourist visa applicants. This move comes after the requirement was temporarily dropped in November 2023 to ease travel post-pandemic.
Now, all applicants for a Thailand tourist visa, regardless of nationality, must submit financial documents confirming they can support themselves during their stay.
Minimum Financial Proof Required
According to Thailand’s official e-Visa portal, applicants must now provide “Financial evidence: an amount of no less than 20,000 THB (e.g., bank statements for the last three months, sponsorship letter).” This translates to approximately USD 550 or EUR 510, though exchange rates may vary.
Travellers must demonstrate at least 20,000 THB (~USD 550) in available funds.
Acceptable documents include:
Bank statements from the last three months
A sponsorship letter, if someone else is supporting your travel
This requirement is now clearly listed on Thailand’s official e-Visa website and 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:
These documents are required for single-entry tourist visa applications, typically allowing stays of up to 60 days.
Visa-Free Entry Still Available, But Changes May Be Coming
Currently, passport holders from 93 countries can enter Thailand visa-free for a stay of up to 60 days. However, this generous policy is under review.
What Might Change?
- Thai authorities are considering reducing the visa-free stay to 30 days
- The potential change follows concerns over visa misuse
- No official announcement has been made yet, but updates are expected in the coming months
This shift could affect travellers who rely on visa exemptions for extended stays, so it’s wise to monitor government advisories if you’re planning a trip later in 2025.
Financial Proof Requirement for Visa on Arrival Travellers!
While the reinstated financial proof requirement is officially tied to tourist visa applications, travellers using Visa on Arrival (VoA) should be aware that Thai immigration officers may still request proof of sufficient funds at the point of entry.
Even though this is not always enforced, officers have the authority to ask for documentation, and in the absence of proof, entry can be denied.
Visa on Arrival Requirements:
To be eligible for a Thailand VoA, you’ll need:
- A valid passport (with at least 30 days’ validity)
- A completed VoA application form
- A passport-sized photo
- Proof of accommodation in Thailand
- A confirmed return or onward ticket
- Proof of sufficient funds:
- Minimum 10,000 THB per person
- Or 20,000 THB per family
Thailand continues to evolve its entry rules to balance tourism with border control. While the reinstatement of financial proof might be a hurdle for some, it’s part of a broader strategy to ensure responsible travel. Combine that with the TDAC digital form, and it’s clear that Thailand is focused on improving efficiency without compromising on safety and regulation
