Thailand has traditionally been rather free with visas most westerners still receive 30 day entry stamps on arrival. However, like just about every other country since 2001. Security concerns have lead to a reduction in the number of countries automatically granted visas.

Visitors to Thailand must hold an International Passport with at least six months validity, most visitors from ASEAN or Western countries are entitled to stay 30 days in Thailand before a visa is required. If you need a visa or plan to stay longer in Thailand than 30 days, check with your nearest Thai Embassy or Thai Consulates in your country for the latest visa information.

Visa Validity Tourist 60 days, Non-immigrant 90 days, Transit 30 days, all visas must be used within three months of the date of issue, except multiple entry non-immigration visas which are valid for up to one year.

The Penalties for over Staying your Visa, have significantly increased, although you are given one days grace. Over staying your visa by two days will now cost you a 1,000 Baht, more than two days will add 500 Baht per day to your overstay penalty.

If you need to extend your visa, visit the Immigration Bureau in Bangkok (if no immigration department where your staying) to get a short extension to your visa. The cost of extending your visa is much less than the over stay penalty.

Detailed Information on the different types of visas available and the information required can be viewed on the Immigration Bureaus website Bangkok, application forms can be downloaded if required.