Visas and Embassies

The Forum is now over, but we encourage you to check the "Latest News" section of this site for selected session writeups, transcripts, and other post-forum information. Updates will be posted throughout December and January.

In order to enter the Kingdom of Thailand, you must possess a passport with a validity not less than six months. Most delegates will also require a visa to enter Thailand. Complete and up-to-date details about Thai visas can be found on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs' website at www.mfa.go.th. A summary is below.

Thailand Embassies and Consulates

For locations, contact information and application forms from Thai Embassies and Consulates around the world, please refer to the following website: www.thaiembassy.org. Residents of countries without a Thai Embassy or Consulate should refer to the Thai Embassy or Consulate in the nearest neighbouring country.

Applying for a Visa

Most embassies and consulates around the world will allow people attending a conference in their country to enter with a tourist visa, although some may insist on the more expensive non-immigrant or business visa. Visa applications can be made in person or by mail. AWID strongly encourages everyone to apply in person if possible, as the processing times are faster.

NOTE: Passport holders of India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Syria, Iraq, Iran, Lebanon, Sudan, Algeria, Libya, Yemen, Egypt and Palestinian States are requested to file for application at the Thai Embassy or Consulate where they have their permanent residence.

Visa Documents

The following documents must be submitted to obtain a tourist visa. Additional documents may be required for a non-immigrant visa. For complete details, visit www.mfa.go.th.

• Current passport with a validity not less than six months.
• Visa application form completely filled out.
• Two recent, passport-sized (4x6 cm) photos of the applicant.
• Return transportation ticket, paid in full.
• Proof of financial means (20,000 baht per person and 40,000 baht per family).
• Visa application fee.

Visa Fees

Tourist Visa: 1,000 baht ($25 USD)
Non-immigrant Visa: 2,000 baht ($50 USD)

Processing Times

Normal processing times for visas are two business days if the application is submitted in person, and one week plus mailing time if the application is submitted by mail. All AWID participants are strongly encouraged to apply for their visas no less than 60 days in advance. This will give AWID time to intervene and assist should you encounter difficulties obtaining your visa.

Supporting Documentation

Once you register for the AWID Forum, you may request an official letter of invitation. Please present this letter when you apply for your visa.

Health Requirement

Thailand requires a Yellow Fever Certificate if you are travelling from or through the countries listed below (list accurate as of May 2005; visit www.mfa.go.th for the most up-to-date information):

Visa on Arrival

Passport holders from 14 countries may apply for visas on arrival for the purposes of tourism for a period not exceeding 15 days. However, AWID strongly encourages all Forum delegates to obtain their visas in advance, to minimize the risk of being turned away at the last minute.

The following is required to obtain a visa on arrival:

• Current passport with a validity not less than six months.
• Visa application form completely filled out.
• Two recent, passport-sized (4x6 cm) photos of the applicant.
• Return transportation ticket, paid in full.
• Proof of financial means (10,000 baht per person and 20,000 baht per family).
• Application fee of 1,000 baht.

Countries eligible for visa on arrival (list accurate as of May 2005; visit www.mfa.go.th for the most up-to-date information):

TOURIST VISA EXEMPTION

Nationals of certain countries are not required to obtain a visa to enter Thailand for the purpose of tourism, providing that their stay does not exceed 30 days. A list of the exempted countries is below (list accurate as of May 2005; visit www.mfa.go.th for the most up-to-date list):

Visa Assistance from AWID

AWID will attempt to assist delegates having difficulty getting visas, provided that the delegates applies at least 30 days in advance, although 60 days is preferred. Contact awidforum@awid.org if you are experiencing difficulty.