Thailand Visitor Visa (Family & Friends Visit)
The Thailand Visitor Visa for family and friends is processed under the Tourist Visa category published by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, since Thailand does not maintain a separate, standalone visa class exclusively for family or friend visits. According to official Royal Thai Consulate-General guidance, a “short visit to family living in Thailand” is explicitly listed as one of the accepted purposes for a Tourist Visa application through the official e-Visa system. This means travellers visiting relatives or friends in Thailand generally apply for the same Tourist Visa used for holidays and recreation, selecting “visiting family/friends” as their purpose of travel. Nationals of visa-exempt countries may not require a visa at all for a qualifying short visit, while others may apply for the Tourist Visa for a longer, more certain stay. As with all Thailand Visa categories, final approval rests solely with Thai consular and immigration authorities.
Eligibility
Based on official Thai government sources, applicants for a Thailand Visitor Visa (family/friends) must generally:
- Be a foreign national travelling to Thailand specifically to visit family members or friends residing there.
- Hold a passport valid for at least six (6) months.
- Provide evidence of the relationship with, or connection to, the host in Thailand.
- Provide proof of adequate finances and accommodation during the visit.
- Not otherwise qualify for, or wish to have a longer stay than, the Visa Exemption scheme.
Government Visa Fees
Because this visit is processed as a Tourist Visa, the same government fee schedule applies:
| Fee Type | Amount |
| Single-Entry Tourist Visa (family/friends visit) | Approximately 1,000 THB (or local-currency equivalent set by the specific embassy/consulate) |
| Multiple-Entry Tourist Visa (6 months) | Approximately 5,000 THB (or local-currency equivalent set by the specific embassy/consulate) |
| INR Equivalent | Information may vary depending on the visa category and individual circumstances |
Visa fees are non-refundable regardless of the outcome. Applicants should confirm the exact current fee with the Royal Thai Embassy or Consulate-General handling their application.
Processing Time
As this visit is processed under the Tourist Visa category, official Royal Thai Embassy and Consulate-General guidance indicates that applications submitted through the e-Visa system are generally processed within 5 to 15 business days, though this can extend depending on application volume, the completeness of supporting documents (such as proof of the family or friend relationship), or if an interview is requested. Applicants are advised to apply well ahead of their intended travel date, particularly during high season.
Required Documents Checklist
Step-by-Step Application Process
Important Notes
Why Choose Shivansh Consultants
A Thailand Visitor Visa (Family & Friends Visit) application requires accurate documentation, a valid invitation from your family member or friend in Thailand, proof of financial support, and compliance with the Royal Thai Embassy or Consulate requirements. Missing or incorrect documents may lead to delays or visa refusal. Shivansh Consultants provides Documentation Support, Eligibility Assessment, and a thorough Application Review to help you submit a complete and accurate application.
Our experienced visa consultants offer Personalized Guidance, a Transparent Process, and End-to-End Assistance—from document preparation to application submission support. We help simplify your Thailand Visitor Visa application while ensuring it meets the latest requirements. Visa approval is solely at the discretion of the Royal Thai Embassy or Consulate.