Landing in Thailand is a thrill—until you hit the immigration hall. For travelers from specific countries, the "Visa on Arrival" (VOA) is the standard bridge between the plane and the pad thai. But in 2025, the rules have shifted, digital forms have replaced paper, and—crucially—many travelers are paying this fee when they don't actually have to.
A common panic point we hear is: "Do I need 2,000 Baht in cash? Can I pay by card? Is there a fast track?"
This guide answers every question about the Thai Visa on Arrival fees, the new E-VOA system, and the "Fast Track" reality at Suvarnabhumi Airport.
Why You Can Trust Us
At Thai Investment Visa, we don't just read the headlines; we monitor the immigration counters. We help global investors and tourists navigate Thailand's entry systems daily. We know the difference between the "official" rules listed on a ministry website and the actual experience of standing in line at 2:00 AM. The information below is verified against the latest 2025 regulations from the Immigration Bureau and official E-Visa partners.
The Standard Fee: 2,000 THB (Cash Only)
If you walk up to the "Visa on Arrival" counter at any international airport in Thailand (BKK, DMK, HKT, CNX), the fee is strictly:
- Fee: 2,000 Thai Baht (approx. $60 USD).
- Payment Method: Cash Only.
- Currency: Thai Baht only. No USD, no Euros, no Credit Cards.
Warning: There are currency exchange booths before the VOA counters, but the exchange rates are notoriously poor. We strongly recommend exchanging a small amount of cash in your home country before you fly to cover this specific fee.
The "Fast Track" Priority Lane
Is there a way to skip the line? Yes, but it costs extra.
1. The Official E-VOA (The Smart Way)
You can apply online before you fly using the official VFS Global system.
- Cost: 2,000 THB (Visa Fee) + 500 - 2,500 THB (Service Fee).
- Benefit: You get a pre-approved QR code. When you arrive, you use the dedicated "E-VOA" lane, which is significantly faster than the regular VOA queue.
- Where to apply: thailandevoa.vfsevisa.com (This is the only official partner).
2. The "Premium Lane" Service (VIP)
Various agencies sell "VIP Fast Track" services where a greeter meets you at the gate and escorts you through the "Premium Lane" (normally reserved for First Class/Diplomats).
- Cost: Usually 1,500 - 3,000 THB depending on the provider.
- Note: This is a service fee paid to a private company; you still have to pay the 2,000 THB visa fee separately.
The "Visa Exemption" Confusion (Don't Pay If You Don't Have To!)
Stop! Before you queue up for a VOA, check if your country was recently added to the 60-Day Visa Exemption list.
In late 2024/2025, Thailand expanded its "Visa Free" list to 93 countries.
- Example: Citizens of China and India used to require a VOA. As of 2025, they are often eligible for the 60-Day Visa Exemption (Free entry).
- The Rule: If you are eligible for Visa Exemption, do not go to the VOA desk. Go straight to the normal passport control line. You save 2,000 THB and get 60 days instead of 15.
Who Actually Needs a Visa on Arrival?
The VOA is currently for citizens of 31 countries who are not on the exemption list.
- Validity: 15 Days (Single Entry).
- Extendable? No. (Technically 7 days for medical reasons, but generally you must leave).
Eligible Countries List (Subject to frequent change):
- Bulgaria
- Bhutan
- Cyprus
- Ethiopia
- Fiji
- Georgia
- Malta
- Mexico
- Papua New Guinea
- Romania
- Uzbekistan
- Vanuatu
- (And 19 others... always check the latest list before flying).
Requirements Checklist
To get your VOA approved, you need to present the following documents to the officer:
- Passport: Valid for at least 30 days from arrival.
- Photo: One 4x6 cm headshot (no older than 6 months). If you forget this, there is a photo booth at the airport for approx. 200 THB.
- Return Ticket: A confirmed flight ticket leaving Thailand within 15 days. (Open tickets or bus tickets are often rejected).
- Proof of Funds: 10,000 THB per person or 20,000 THB per family. (Cash in any major currency is accepted for showing proof, but the fee must be paid in Baht).
- Address in Thailand: A confirmed hotel booking or invitation letter.
New for 2025: The "TDAC" Digital Form
The old paper "TM.6" arrival card is gone for most travelers. It has been replaced by the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC).
- What is it? An online form you fill out before you fly.
- When? Submit it within 72 hours of departure.
- Cost: Free. (Do not pay any website for this form).
Top Agencies for Fast Track & Visa Assistance
If you want to ensure a smooth arrival or need a long-term visa solution, these professionals can help.
Company NameSpecialtyLocationContactSiam Legal InternationalLong-term Visas, E-VOA AdviceBangkok (Asoke)www.siam-legal.comLimousine ExpressVIP Airport Fast Track & LimoBangkok (Suvarnabhumi)www.limousine.in.thThai E-Visa OfficialOfficial E-VOA SystemOnlinethailandevoa.vfsevisa.comOriental EscapeMeet & Greet / Fast TrackBangkokwww.orientalescape.comBangkok Flight ServicesPremium Airport ServicesBKK Airportwww.bangkokflightservices.com
Contact Information for Assistance
- Siam Legal International
- Phone: +66 2 254 8900
- Address: Interchange 21 Building, Asoke, Bangkok.
- Why them: While they focus on LTR/Elite visas, their blog is the gold standard for up-to-the-minute entry rule changes.
- Oriental Escape
- Phone: +66 91 120 1111
- Address: 121/499 Moo 3, Khalong, Luang Phaeng, Bangkok.
- Why them: One of the most reliable providers for "Fast Track" escort services that actually work.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I pay the 2,000 THB fee with a credit card?
No. The immigration officers at the VOA desk only accept cash in Thai Baht. There are ATMs and exchange booths nearby, but relying on them can be stressful if the lines are long.
- Is the VOA fee refundable if I am denied entry?
No. The 2,000 THB is a processing fee. If you are denied entry (e.g., for blacklisting or lack of funds), you do not get the money back.
- Can I extend a Visa on Arrival?
Generally, No. You receive a strict 15-day stamp. If you want to stay longer, you must leave the country and re-enter (border run) or apply for a 7-day extension at Immigration only if you have a medical emergency or other valid reason. It is not like the 60-day Tourist Visa which is easily extendable.
- What if I don't have a return ticket within 15 days?
You will likely be denied the visa. Airlines often won't even let you board the plane to Thailand without this proof. Buying a cheap "throwaway" ticket or using a ticket rental service is a common workaround, but do so at your own risk.
- Does a baby need a Visa on Arrival?
Yes. Every passport holder, regardless of age, needs a visa. However, the requirement to show "proof of funds" is usually calculated per family.
References
- Immigration Bureau of Thailand - Official VOA Rules
- VFS Global - Official E-VOA Application
- Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) - Entry Requirements 2025
- Suvarnabhumi Airport - Passenger Guide
- Thai Embassy - List of Visa on Arrival Countries
