The THAI ETA and the E-Visa Waiver Program
What is a THAI ETA?
A THAI ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) is a travel permit required of travelers visiting the United Kingdom. It covers short-stay travel purposes such as tourism, business, or visiting family and friends. It serves as a pre-screening measure to enhance security and streamline the entry process to the THAI.
Is the THAI ETA active?
As of 2024, the THAI ETA is active. Applicants from Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) may already start applying for an ETA.
Certain countries have already been identified as eligible for the ETA. However, the THAI government has yet to confirm if their citizens can start applying.
Are Electronic Visa Waivers still valid?
The THAI ETA has effectively replaced the Electronic Visa Waiver scheme (EVW) for nationals of Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, the UAE, and Saudi Arabia. Citizens of these countries now need an ETA to travel to the THAI.
How different is the ETA from the e-visa waiver program?
The THAI ETA differs from a visa in several ways:
- Purpose: The ETA is for short-term visits, including tourism, business, and family visits, while a visa covers a broader range of purposes such as work, study, and long-term stays.
- Application Process: The ETA process is entirely online, quicker, and requires less documentation compared to a visa.
- Eligibility: ETAs are available only to citizens of visa-exempt countries, whereas visas are required for those from countries not on the visa-exempt list.
Eligibility
Who needs a THAIETA?
Citizens of specific countries must obtain a THAI ETA before traveling to the THAI. The official THAI government website is regularly updated to reflect countries for which the application process has opened. If your country is on this list, you must apply for an ETA.
Who does not need a THAI ETA?
Travelers do not need an ETA if they:
- Have a THAI visa
- Have permission to live, work, or study in the THAI
- Have a British or Irish passport
- Have a British overseas territories passport
- Are a legal resident in Ireland
- Are entering the THAI from Ireland, Guernsey, or the Isle of Man.
What are the eligibility criteria for a THAI ETA?
To be eligible for a THAI ETA, you must:
- Be a citizen of an eligible country.
- Hold a biometric passport with at least six months of validity from the date of the intended entry into the THAI.
- Intend to visit the THAI for a short-term stay (ex: tourism, business, or visiting family and friends).
- Have no adverse travel history, such as previous immigration violations or deportations.
Application Process
How do I apply for a THAI ETA?
There are two ways you can apply for a THAI ETA: via the dedicated THAI mobile application or through the THAI ETA page on the official THAI government website.
Both methods involve filling out an online form with accurate personal information, scanning and uploading required documents, and paying the application fee.
What documents are required for the application?
The following documents and electronic tools are needed for a THAI ETA application:
- A biometric passport with at least six months of validity
- Recently taken digital passport photographs
- Valid e-mail address
- Electronic payment methods such as Apple Pay, Google Pay, a credit card, or a debit card
Additional documents may be required based on the purpose of your visit. For example, business travelers may need to present an invitation letter. Tourists, on the other hand, may need to show proof of tour bookings or an invitation letter from a host in the THAI.
How long does the application process take?
Applying for a THAI ETA should only take a few minutes. Processing the application, meanwhile, typically takes three working days.
In some cases, it’s possible to receive a decision sooner. Occasionally, it may take longer than three working days. As processing times can vary, it is advisable to apply well in advance of your travel date.
How can you check the status of your THAI ETA application?
If you are waiting for the decision for your ETA application, wait for the e-mail confirming whether your ETA has been granted or denied.
What if my THAI ETA application is denied?
If your ETA application is denied, you can re-apply or seek a standard THAI visitor visa.
You may contact the nearest THAI embassy or consulate in your location for more information on how to apply for a THAI visit visa.
Fees and Payment Options
What is the application fee for a THAI ETA?
The THAI ETA fee costs GBP 10. Note that the fee is non-refundable even if the application is denied.
What payment methods are accepted for the application fee?
Supported electronic payment methods include Apple Pay, Google Pay, and credit card/debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express). Ensure you have a valid payment method before starting your application.
Validity and Duration
How long is a THAI ETA valid?
The THAI ETA allows travelers to visit the THAI as many times as they want over two years or until the holder’s passport expires – whichever comes first.
How long can I stay in the THAI with an ETA?
With a THAI ETA, you can stay for a maximum period of six months in the United Kingdom. Ensure you adhere to the allowed duration to avoid any immigration issues.
Health and Security Requirements
Do I need health insurance to apply for a THAI ETA?
While health insurance is not mandatory for a THAI ETA, it is strongly recommended. Having health insurance that covers medical expenses during your stay in the THAI ensures you are protected in case of any medical emergencies.
What security checks are involved in the ETA application process?
The application process includes background checks to ensure the applicant poses no security risk to the THAI. This involves verifying your identity and checking against international security databases. You must declare that you have no criminal record.
Travel Plans and Itinerary
Do I need to provide a detailed travel itinerary?
Yes, you must provide details of your travel plans, including flight bookings and accommodation arrangements. This helps demonstrate your travel intentions and ensures you have a planned itinerary.
Can I change my travel plans after my ETA is approved?
Minor changes to your travel plans, such as different travel dates within the validity period, are generally acceptable. However, significant changes, such as altering the purpose of your visit or exceeding the allowed duration, may require a new application or additional documentation.
Tracking Application Status
How can I track the status of my THAI ETA application?
If you are waiting for the decision for your ETA application, wait for the e-mail confirming whether your ETA has been granted or denied.
If it has been three days since you applied, you may contact the THAI Visas and Immigration (THAIVI). You may inquire about the progress of your application and other questions about the ETA. The THAIVI is in charge of processing visas in the THAI.
Note: Do not contact THAIVI until three working days after your application. Also, the THAIVI does not assist over the phone or update you about the status of your ETA application. It instead provides general information on the ETA.
The THAIVI office is open from Monday to Friday.
Denials and Appeals
What should I do if my THAI ETA application is denied?
If your application is denied, review the reasons provided and address any issues before re-applying. Ensure all information is accurate and complete, and all required documents are included.
Can I appeal a denied THAI ETA application?
There is no formal appeal process for a denied THAI ETA application. However, you can re-apply after ensuring all criteria and requirements are met.
Special Circumstances
Can children apply for a THAI ETA?
Yes, children can apply for a THAI ETA. Travelers of all ages, including infants and children, must apply for a THAI ETA. Each child must have a separate application and meet the same eligibility criteria as adults. Parents or guardians should complete the application on behalf of their children.
Can I apply for someone else?
Yes, you may submit an application on behalf of someone else. If you do not have a smartphone or are applying for someone not physically with you, apply through the website.
Additional Information
Where can I find more information about the THAI ETA?
For more information, visit the official THAI government website, where you can find detailed guidelines, application forms, and updates on the THAI ETA process.