With its majestic temples and array of street food, it’s no surprise that Thailand has become a top tourist destination. For frequent visitors, it’s important that they choose the right entry document so they can save precious time and money. Two of the most popular visa options are the Thailand ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) and the Visa on Arrival (VoA).
Although both permit convenient entry into Thailand, they have their differences in cost, convenience, and flexibility. As such, which one is better for frequent travelers?
In this guide, we cover their key differences, advantages, and drawbacks.
What is the Thailand eTA?
The Thailand eTA is a mandatory online travel authorization available to citizens of select countries. Specifically, it’s for short visits like tourism or business.
The application process is fully digital. You fill out a form, upload documents, and receive approval via email. No embassy visits, no airport paperwork.
To clarify, the ETA is not a visa. If you are eligible for an ETA, then you no longer need to apply for a visa.
Most eTAs allow multiple entries within six months and a stay of up to 15 days per visit. In contrast, the Thailand ETA allows stays of up to 60 days per visit. In this regard, the Thailand eTA visa is ideal for those who plan ahead.
Although the process is usually fast, delays can still happen. As such, having the eTA Thailand visa before landing makes immigration much smoother.
Eligibility for the Thailand ETA
Not all nationalities qualify for the Thailand eTA visa. Currently, it is available to travelers from select countries such as the following:
Europe: Albania, Andorra, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Georgia, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Morocco, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Russia, San Marino, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey, Ukraine, UK,
Oceania: Australia, Fiji, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Tonga,
Asia: Bahrain, Bhutan, Brunei, Cambodia, China, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Israel, Japan, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Korea (South Korea), Kosovo, Kuwait, Laos, Macau, Malaysia, Maldives, Mongolia, Oman, Philippines, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, UAE, Uzbekistan, Vietnam
Americas: Brazil, Canada, Colombia, Cuba, Ecuador, Guatemala, Mexico, Panama, Peru, USA, Uruguay
Carribbean: Dominica, Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago
Africa: Mauritius, South Africa
The Thailand ETA is also mandatory for Travelers arriving by air. It also covers those staying for a short-term tourism or business visit, typically 15-30 days per entry. In addition, tourists, business travelers, or transit passengers using Thailand as a stopover must also secure an ETA.
Eligibility may change, so check news reports.
What is the Thailand Visa on Arrival?
The Visa on Arrival (VoA) is for travelers who don’t hold an eTA or visa in advance. It’s typically available at major airports and some land borders.
You apply upon arrival in Thailand. The application process includes filling out a form, presenting documents, and paying a fee.
You’ll need the following documents:
- A passport valid for at least 6 months after your arrival date
- A completed Thailand Digital Arrival Card (obtained at least three days prior to arrival)
- A return ticket or proof of onward travel within 15 days
- Hotel booking or other proof of accommodation
- Proof of financial means
• Visa fee (usually in Thai baht)
The VoA grants a single entry and allows a 15-day stay. As such, it’s great for spontaneous trips. However, it involves airport paperwork and possible long lines.
During peak seasons, the Visa on Arrival counters can get crowded. Hence, this option is less predictable, especially at busy airports like Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi.
Thailand eTA vs. Visa on Arrival
The Thailand eTA and Visa on Arrival differ in several key areas that matter to frequent travelers. First, the application process is a major contrast. The eTA is completed online before travel. On the other hand, the Visa on Arrival is handled at the airport or land border, often after a long flight.
In terms of processing time, the eTA typically takes a few business days for approval. Meanwhile, the Visa on Arrival is processed on the spot, but the wait time can stretch beyond 30 minutes, especially during peak hours.
When it comes to entry type, the eTA permits a single entry. Similarly, the Visa on Arrival also allows a single entry. This means you must reapply and repay the fee every time you visit.
The length of stay allowed by both options is different. While the Thailand ETA allows a single-entry stay valid for up to 60 days, the VoA permits up to 15 days per visit only.
If we’re talking convenience, the eTA clearly wins. You skip airport paperwork and queues, making your arrival much smoother. The Visa on Arrival requires printed documents, a photo, and local currency, and you’ll likely wait in line. It will depend on which document you are eligible for.
If you’re a frequent traveler to Thailand, the eTA offers better value, more convenience, and long-term flexibility compared to the more time-consuming Visa on Arrival process.
Key Advantages of Each
So, which travel document fits your needs better?
The Thailand eTA:
- Lets you stay in Thailand for up to 60 days
- Is great for planning trips in advance
- Works if you prefer to skip airport visa queues
The Visa on Arrival:
- Is great if you’re only visiting for up to 15 days
- Is convenient if your trip was planned last-minute
- Works if you’re eligible and you don’t mind some airport delay
Each traveler is different. But frequent flyers may benefit more from the convenience and cost savings of the eTA, if they are eligible for it.
Conclusion
Thailand continues to welcome millions with open arms. For eligible travelers who wish to stay in Thailand for up to 60 days, the Thailand eTA stands out.
It saves money, avoids hassle, and speeds up the airport process. While the Visa on Arrival has its place for last-minute trips, it quickly becomes expensive and time-consuming for repeat visits.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I get both the eTA and a Visa on Arrival?
No. You should only apply for one type of visa per trip. Choose based on your travel needs and eligibility.
2. Can I extend my stay with an eTA or VoA?
You can extend your Thailand ETA by 30 days. Meanwhile, you cannot extend the visa on arrival.
3. Can I use the Thailand eTA for business travel?
Yes, but only for short-term business visits like meetings or conferences. It doesn’t allow paid work or long stays.
4. Is the Thailand eTA available for US or UK citizens?
Yes, US or UK citizens can apply for a Thailand ETA for stays under 60 days.
5. What happens if my eTA isn’t approved?
You’ll need to apply for a regular visa or use the Visa on Arrival option (if eligible). As such, always apply in advance to allow for time to apply for alternatives.
6. Can I apply for an ETA at the airport upon arrival?
No, you cannot apply for the Thailand ETA at the airport upon arrival. It must be remembered that Thailand requires ETA approval before boarding your flight. As such, if you arrive without an ETA, then you may need to apply for a VOA instead.
7. Can I travel to Thailand while my ETA is still being processed?
No, you must have an approved ETA before departure. Moreover, airlines may bar you from boarding your flight without a valid ETA.
Photo by Robson Hatsukami Morgan on Unsplash
