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Do those flying to Thailand on holiday need a tourist visa?

Home » blog » Do those flying to Thailand on holiday need a tourist visa?

Thailand has long been one of the most popular destinations for travellers from all over the world. Its tropical climate, rich cultural heritage, stunning beaches and low holiday prices attract millions of tourists. Before travelling to exotic Thailand, it is important to understand whether a tourist visa is required for entry.

Visa-free travel in Thailand: who can enter without restrictions?

Thailand actively welcomes tourists, providing visa-free entry for citizens of many countries. For most travellers, including citizens of Russia, Ukraine and EU countries, there is a special regime. This means that it is possible to come on holiday for up to 30 days without applying for a tourist visa.

It is important to remember that the visa-free regime is only valid for short-term stays. If a longer stay is planned, a permit will need to be issued depending on the purpose of the trip. For those travelling to Thailand for tourism purposes for up to 30 days, there is no need for a visa.

Minimal changes to the rules are expected in 2025, so it’s always worth checking up-to-date data on official sources.

Do I need a tourist visa for Thailand when buying a holiday?

When travelling as part of a tourist tour, visa-free entry can be used if the period of stay does not exceed 30 days. The rule applies to most travellers, regardless of whether you buy a tour through an agency or decide to organise the itinerary on your own.

It is worth knowing that if you exceed the period of stay, for example, if you need to stay in the country for more than 30 days, you will need to apply for a visa. It is important to remember that tourists who decide to stay on the territory of the state for more than a month must obtain permission from the consulate or embassy before travelling.

For those who plan to travel for an extended period of time or take up employment in Thailand, there is also the option of longer visas such as entry clearance for work or study. Under the terms, you can stay in the country for 60 days or longer.

Documents to enter Thailand

To get to Thailand travellers who do not require a tourist visa just need to carry a standard package of documents:

  1. A passport valid for at least another 6 months from the date of entry.
  2. A return ticket or a ticket to a third country.
  3. Proof of financial solvency – the tourist must have sufficient funds to stay in Thailand. This is usually confirmed by 10,000 baht per person or 20,000 baht per family.
  4. Sometimes confirmation of a hotel or other accommodation booking is required.

Note: the presence of the above documents does not automatically guarantee an entry permit. It is at the discretion of the Thai Border Guard.

Tourism and holidays in Thailand: conditions for entry in 2025

Thailand has long established itself as one of the best holiday destinations due to its unique nature, warm climate, and high level of tourist services. In 2025, tourists will continue to enjoy attractive low holiday prices, as well as a variety of accommodation, excursions and water sports.

Many tourists decide to visit Thailand to spend time on the beach, and this is not surprising, because the famous resorts of Phuket, Krabi, Pattaya and the islands of Koh Samui offer excellent conditions for holidays at sea. At the same time, the country is known for its natural and cultural attractions like ancient temples, the capital Bangkok, jungle mountains, exotic flora and fauna.

List of popular beach resorts:

  1. Phuket is Thailand’s largest and most popular island.
  2. Krabi is a quiet, picturesque resort known for its beaches and mountainous landscapes.
  3. Pattaya is for lovers of outdoor activities, entertainment and vibrant nightlife.
  4. Ko Samui is an island with stunning beaches and chic resorts.

How to apply for a tourist visa to Thailand in 2025

For those planning to spend more than 30 days in Thailand, a tourist visa can be applied for at the country’s consulates or embassies abroad. To obtain authorisation, you need to submit a package of documents including:

  1. Completed visa application form.
  2. Passport valid for a minimum of 6 months.
  3. Two 3×4 cm colour photos.
  4. Confirmation of financial solvency.
  5. Confirmation of ticket and accommodation bookings.
  6. Health insurance (if required).
  7. If necessary, proof of the purpose of the trip (e.g. documents confirming participation in an exchange programme, courses or business events).

The process of obtaining a certificate usually takes between 3 and 10 working days depending on the type and workload of the consulate.

Moving to Thailand: Residence Permit and Permanent Residence

For those who choose to stay in Thailand for an extended period of time, there is the possibility of obtaining a residence permit (PRP). In 2025, there are several programmes available for foreign nationals to obtain a residence permit and a permanent residence permit. Some of the projects require investment in the country’s economy or the purchase of property.

Tourism, business and investment:

  1. For investors willing to invest in the Thai economy or property, the options of obtaining a residence permit or permanent residence are open.
  2. It is also possible to obtain a residence permit after 3-5 years of residence in Thailand with a valid residence permit. To do so, one must comply with all visa requirements and not violate migration laws.

Conclusion

The answer to the question whether a tourist visa to Thailand is required depends on the plans for the trip. For a short-term stay (up to 30 days), a permit is not required if the citizen comes from a country with a visa-free regime. In case the period of stay exceeds 30 days, it is necessary to issue a visa at the consulate. All tourists planning a trip to Thailand should carefully familiarise themselves with the rules of entry and prepare the necessary documents to avoid unpleasant situations at the border.

Thailand continues to attract tourists with its culture, nature and hospitality. The year 2025 will be no exception and the country will provide excellent holiday and accommodation facilities.

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The best beaches in Krabi: where to spend an unforgettable holiday in Thailand

Krabi is the perfect destination for those looking for a combination of stunning beaches, picturesque limestone cliffs and the warm Andaman Sea. From popular tourist spots to secluded coves with crystal clear waters, the region offers holidays to suit all tastes. Narrow sandy spits surrounded by mangrove forests are juxtaposed with spacious shores where you can enjoy tranquillity and comfort. Choosing the best beach depends on preference, as Krabi has both lively areas with developed infrastructure and wild corners of nature.

Ao Nang: Krabi’s central beach with developed infrastructure

For those who want to combine beach holidays with comfort and entertainment, Ao Nang Beach in Krabi will be the best choice. It is the tourist centre of the region, where hotels, restaurants, shops and diving centres are concentrated.

Soft white sand, smooth entrance to the sea and developed infrastructure make this line convenient for holidaymakers of all categories. Here you can rent kayaks, go on excursions to the nearest islands or simply enjoy picturesque sunsets.

Advantages:

  1. Developed tourist area with a wide range of cafes and bars.
  2. Quick access to the islands of Phi Phi and Poda.
  3. Ideal conditions for swimming, especially during the season from November to April.

Raleigh: beaches with breathtaking scenery and secluded atmosphere

Among the best beaches in Krabi, Reilly, one of the most beautiful parts of the region, has a special place. It is an entire peninsula surrounded by steep limestone cliffs. It is only accessible by boat, making it a secluded and atmospheric place.

West Raleigh: a spacious beach for swimming and relaxing

Wide shore with soft golden sand and turquoise water – there are no waves and strong currents. The length of the beach is about 600 metres, and the absence of cars creates a complete sense of peace.

Nearby there are restaurants overlooking the sea, where you can taste fresh seafood, as well as small cosy hotels. Sunsets in West Raleigh are considered some of the most beautiful in Krabi, thanks to the soft pink-orange glow of the sun sinking over the horizon.

East Raleigh: cliffs, mangroves and scenic trails

Unlike the west shore, East Raleigh is covered in mangroves, so the water is not as clear and the beach is not really suitable for swimming. However, it is ideal for walking and exploring the surrounding nature.

There are several climbing routes leading to the limestone peaks, offering panoramic views of the Andaman Sea. Adventurous travellers can head to the famous Princess Cave, surrounded by mystical legends.

Nopparat Tara: a quiet harbour for lovers of seclusion

The tranquil and long stretch of Nopparat Tara beach attracts those looking for the best place to relax away from the hustle and bustle. Located just 3km from Ao Nang, it remains less crowded despite its proximity to the popular tourist centre.

The main feature of the location is a wide sandy spit running into the sea. At low tide you can walk to the small islands nearby. There are coniferous trees along the beach, creating natural shade and coolness. It is ideal for those who want to enjoy nature, walk along the long coastline and relax without the noise of crowded resorts.

Klong Muang: a luxury beach with five-star hotels

If you need a beach with a secluded atmosphere yet comfortable conditions, Klong Muang on Krabi is the best choice. Some of the region’s most expensive and prestigious resorts are located here, offering a high level of service and private villas with access to the sea.

The coastline is characterised by white sand and the sea remains calm even during the monsoon season. Compared to Ao Nang and Raleigh, Klong Muang has fewer tourists, making it ideal for quiet holidays and romantic strolls.

Tub Kaek: a place for secluded relaxation and nature

One of the least crowded places on the coast. A real paradise for those who want to relax in silence, enjoying the picturesque scenery and relaxing atmosphere. The main advantage of the coast is the crystal clear water and the absence of crowds of tourists. You can swim here even in the rainy season, as the coast is protected from strong waves.

There are several nature trails near Tub Kaek, including the Dragon Trail that leads to one of the best lookouts in the region. The climb takes about 2-3 hours, but the views of the Andaman Sea are worth the effort.

Ao Nammao: a natural cove amidst mangrove forests

Rounding off the list of the best beaches in Krabi is the secluded Ao Namma. It is an off-the-beaten-track beach resort with lively recreational areas and infrastructure for tourists. This natural spot is ideal for those seeking privacy, wildlife watching and leisurely walks along the coast.

Landscape and natural features

Ao Nammao is characterised by soft sand with touches of clay and a dense band of mangrove trees that create shady areas. The dense thickets make the beach a haven for many exotic species of birds, fish and small marine animals.

The main feature is the atypical Thai coastline. Unlike Reilly or Ao Nang, where clean sand dunes predominate, here the sand is mixed with silt, and at low tide there are wide areas of mangrove roots. This makes the water less clear but gives the line an unusual natural appearance.

People come here not for swimming, but for leisurely walks along the coast and observing the local flora and fauna. In the evenings you can see flocks of fish jumping out of the water and hermit crabs moving across the wet sand.

The location would be perfect for:

  1. Ecological tourism – the mangrove forests here are protected and the unique ecosystem makes it a great location for nature study.
  2. Photography and meditation – due to the seclusion and minimal number of tourists here, it’s easy to enjoy the sounds of nature, the unhurried pace of life and the amazing scenery.
  3. Excursions – the beach is the starting point for trips to nearby islands, including hidden lagoons and caves.

Ao Nammao Mangroves: walks among mesmerising nature

The mangrove forests in the area are some of the densest in the province. An entire underwater world that plays an important role in the region’s ecosystem. Rare birds, fish, molluscs and even small sharks living among the roots of trees can be found in these areas.

Excursion boats run along the mangrove canals, allowing you to peer into the depths of this natural wonder. The calm waters make such trips particularly relaxing, and the surrounding sounds of nature create an atmosphere of complete solitude.

Conclusion

Choosing the best beach in Krabi depends on your preferences. Active holidaymakers will love Ao Nang and Reilly, lovers of silence will appreciate Klong Muang and Tub Kaek, while those seeking privacy should pay attention to Nopparat Tara and Ao Nammao. Each place offers stunning scenery, soft sands and the warm waters of the Andaman Sea.

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When is the best time to travel to Thailand: choosing the perfect time by destination and region

The tropical climate does not limit the traveller in the choice of season – it dictates the style of holiday. Some come for the sun, others for adventure or sightseeing. The exact choice of when to go to Thailand depends on your desire: to sunbathe non-stop, catch a wave or go into the jungle. Each month offers a different palette of conditions and therefore a different destination.

Seasonal breakdown: when is the best time to travel to Thailand

When to go to Thailand is not a question of the date on the calendar, but of the purpose of the trip. The country lives according to the rhythm of three natural cycles that shape not only the temperature and humidity, but also the pace of the holiday itself. The climate is divided into dry, hot and humid periods. Each of these dictates how long you should sunbathe, how many days are suitable for sightseeing and how high the price of tickets and hotels will go up.

Winter: high season

The period from December to February becomes the peak of tourist interest. The air stabilises at +28…+31°C, precipitation is almost non-existent and humidity drops to 50-60%. This gives a feeling of coolness even in bright sunshine. The climate is especially mild on the coasts and islands.

Resorts in Thailand at this time work in full force: hotel staff goes into a strengthened mode, beaches are filled from early morning, sea excursions are sold without stopping. Especially the west coast wins: Phuket, Krabi, Lanta. The sea remains clear, without storms, without algae. Even on the distant islands, the water remains at +28°C.

High season raises prices: the cost of a tour to Thailand increases by 30-50% compared to autumn. Rooms are booked 2-3 months in advance, air tickets disappear from the first days of December. This period is suitable for comfortable beach holidays, weddings, honeymoons, family trips. Tourists from Europe make up the main flow.

Spring: the heat is intensifying

From March, the climate turns hot. The temperature rises to +35…+38°C, higher in the north and centre of the country. Humidity decreases, making the air dry but scorching. For Bangkok and Chiang Mai – an extreme mode: the asphalt heats up to +50°C, buildings give off heat and at night. On the islands, however, the feeling is softened by the sea breeze. Phuket, Ko Lipe, Ko Lanta become salvation: the sea warms up to +30°C, humidity is lower than in summer. At this time, travelling to the mountains is possible, but with caution: the heat causes rapid fatigue.

April is the month of Songkran, the Thai New Year. Water festivals are held all over the country, streets turn into living fountains. Tourists participate in the festivities as much as locals, so this month keeps the flow going even in the heatwave. May becomes borderline: the rainy season begins in some regions. But showers have the character of evening thunderstorms or night storms, and do not interfere with daytime activities. Samui, Pangan and Tao are particularly favourable to visit in May – it’s drier here for longer than in Phuket.

Summer: rainy season

When to go to Thailand in summer – the choice depends on the purpose of the trip. June, July and August are traditionally considered “low season”, but in fact the country remains open for tourism. The air temperature stabilises at +30…+32°C, the water in the sea remains warm – about +28°C. Humidity increases significantly – up to 80-90%. The atmosphere becomes tropical in the literal sense: stuffy, dense and humid.

Rains do not last all day. The most common scenario is a sunny morning, a cloudy afternoon and heavy rain towards evening. Thunder may rumble during the night, but the sun shines again in the morning. This creates a comfortable rhythm: morning swims and excursions, afternoon rest in the hotel, evening walks in the light rain.

Summer becomes the time of favourable tours to Thailand. Air carriers reduce fares by 20-40%, hotels include free services – transfer, massage, excursions. The density of tourists decreases. Beaches, usually filled to capacity, remain almost empty even in popular resorts.

In June and July it is better to go to the east coast: Samui, Pangan, Tao. Here the rains are less frequent, the sea remains calm and the water does not lose its transparency. The weather is favourable for diving, yoga retreats and secluded trips. The west coast (Phuket, Krabi) becomes less predictable – waves rise, storms are possible.

Autumn: a transitional phase before the peak of the season

September and October are considered the most fickle months of the year. During this time, Thailand can welcome travellers with heavy rains, closed beaches and frequent cancellations of sea tours. However, even here a successful holiday is possible – the main thing is to choose the right region.

September brings the maximum amount of precipitation. Humidity reaches a critical 95%, the temperature remains at +29…+31°C, but feels higher. Southern resorts, especially Phuket and Krabi, often suffer from storms. Nature looks fresh and rich: greenery is lush and the air is oxygenated, but there is less tourist activity.

October is a transitional month. Rainfall may persist in the first half, but from mid-month the weather stabilises. Excursions reappear on the southern islands, beaches are cleared and the sea begins to calm down. The resorts come to life. From November the velvet season begins. Humidity drops to 60 per cent, temperatures stay around +29°C and the tourist flow gradually increases. This is an excellent time for a leisurely start of a winter trip: comfort without heat, sea without waves, prices are lower than in December.

Regional specifics: where and when to go to Thailand

Thailand’s climate is not uniform. Regional differences shape not only landscapes and architecture, but also climatic features. Some resorts are better suited for winter, others for summer. To determine when to go to Thailand, it is important to consider not only the month, but also the point on the map.

North of the country: coolness and festivals

Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Pai, Lampang – the northern provinces have their own rhythm. The main season is from October to February. During this time the daytime temperature remains within +22…+26°C, at night it drops to +14…+18°C. The air is dry, the sky is clear and the sun is mild. The mountain landscapes are covered in mist at dawn, creating ideal conditions for photo shoots and meditation. The season is particularly popular with European travellers looking for coolness and tranquillity. It is the best time to tour temples, tea plantations, and markets.

In spring, the heat increases with temperatures rising to +35°C. Agriculture begins to prepare for the rainy season, which is accompanied by seasonal fallow in March-April. This worsens visibility and air quality. From June to September, the wet season begins. Landslides are possible in the mountains, trails are eroded and excursions are limited. However, autumn is the season for cultural festivals. Loy Kratong (floating lanterns), harvest festivals and fairs make the north attractive even in the wet season.

Central: the heart of the country and the heat

Bangkok, Ayutthaya, Nonthaburi and surrounding areas are the political, historical and commercial centre. Tourist activity peaks from November to March. The temperature stays around +30…+32°C, humidity is moderate and rainfall is rare. During this period it is easy to visit temples, royal palaces, markets. Excursions are held around the clock, transport works steadily. There are a lot of tourists, especially on New Year holidays.

From April to May Bangkok overheats. The temperature in the shade reaches +38°C, the asphalt heats up to +50°C, the comfort level drops sharply. Even in air-conditioned rooms, heat fatigue is felt. Summer and early autumn (June to September) bring rain. Streets flood, traffic slows down, but the temperature drops to +29…+31°C. This time is ideal for short stops: shopping, evening walks, gastrotourism.

Southern resorts: beach Thailand by season

The south of the country is divided into two directions – west (Andaman Sea) and east (Gulf of Thailand). These areas have opposite seasons:

  1. West coast: Phuket, Krabi, Lanta, Phi Phi. The best period is from November to April. Water temperature +28…+30°C, air temperature +30°C, almost no rains. Ideal conditions for beach holidays, diving, sea excursions. In May the waves start, the water loses transparency, underwater currents appear.
  2. East coast: Samui, Pangan, Tao. The resorts keep stable weather from June to October. At this time there is less rain, the sea is calm and the beaches are clean. From January to March, the coast suffers from wind, the sea is stormy, visibility under water is reduced.

How to choose the perfect month to go to Thailand

The choice of travel time depends on priorities: climate, budget, goals. Universally comfortable period is from November to February. Economical – in the off-season. The most picturesque photos are obtained in December, rich impressions – in February, and solitude – in May.

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