If you are an Australian citizen and planning to travel to Thailand, this is the right place to know about the important things needed before traveling. Thailand has always been a popular holiday destination for Australians. It is easy to get to, offers unique experiences not found in Australia, and visitors can enjoy a 2 to 3-week holiday for less than a week’s vacation at home. And now that Thailand is striving to get tourists back into the country, many of the requirements set during COVID have been changed. If you’ve ever thought of traveling to Thailand from Australia on holiday, now is the time when prices and travel restrictions are low.
Travel Restrictions on Australians Entering Thailand
Thailand has lifted many of the travel requirements placed during COVID-19. Below is a list of these changes:
- Foreigners do not need to show proof of COVID insurance
- All mandatory hotel quarantine requirements have been removed
- Thailand Pass is no longer required for foreign travelers entering Thailand
- Wearing masks is no longer compulsory but still recommended in crowded places
- The traditional TM6 arrival card has been replaced by the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC Thailand).
Visas needed for Entering Thailand from Australia
Visa Exemption Scheme
Australians can now enter and stay in Thailand for 60 days without a visa through the Visa Exemption Scheme because of an agreement between the two countries. There is no set limit if you’re traveling by air, but you can only enter on a visa exemption stamp twice a year if you’re entering Thailand through a land or sea border.
Thailand Tourist Visa
You can apply for the Thailand Tourist Visa at the Thai Embassy in Canberra or Sydney. It allows you to stay in Thailand for 60 days, but it can also be extended for another 30 days at the immigration office in Bangkok, making your entire trip to Thailand 90 days.
Thailand Elite Visa
If you wish to make Thailand easily accessible for many years to come or are perhaps thinking of relocating permanently, it is worth having a look at the Thailand Elite Visa.
The Thailand Privilege Visa allows you to live uninterrupted in Thailand for up to 5, 10, or even 15 years. It also has far fewer eligibility criteria than other long-term visas and comes with a host of exclusive benefits, making it the easiest and most rewarding way to stay in Thailand long-term.
Thai Non-Immigrant Visa
You may also apply for a wide range of non-immigrant visas depending on how long you plan on staying and what you plan on doing while in Thailand. Non-immigrant visas available to Australians include:
- Non-Immigrant B Visa – for conducting business or employment
- Non-Immigrant O Visa – for visiting Thai spouse and family
- Non-Immigrant ED visa – for students of recognized institutions in Thailand
- Non-Immigrant O Retirement Visa – for those who wish to retire in Thailand
- Non-Immigrant OA and OX Visa – for those who wish to obtain a Thailand Retirement Visa for a long stay (these provide longer stays with different requirements from the basic type O visa)
You can start the process of acquiring these visas at your local Thai Embassy or Consulate in Australia. The paperwork can be quite involved, but there are people who can help, like Siam Legal, a reputable law firm in Thailand that employs English-speaking Thai immigration specialists. We’ve been helping Australians travel to Thailand for over 22 years, and know the laws of both countries inside and out. So, if you would like to streamline your journey to a long-term stay in Thailand, contact us and we’ll ensure your path to the Kingdom is swift and successful.
How to Get to Thailand
Book a Flight
You can land at any international airport in Thailand and continue to your destination without restrictions. “Sealed” flights are no longer in operation, and domestic flights no longer require proof of vaccination or COVID-19 testing. ATK self-test kits remain available at airports, pharmacies, and convenience stores for personal use if needed.
Most international airlines follow the entry rules of the destination country. If you’re transiting through another country, check with your airline to see if any specific requirements apply during your layover.
Finding Accommodation in Thailand
There are no quarantine or testing requirements for booking accommodation in Thailand. Travelers are free to choose any hotel, guesthouse, or rental property without restriction.
To compare and reserve hotels across the country, platforms like Agoda offer flexible booking, free cancellation options, and real-time availability across major cities and resort areas.
Arriving in Thailand – Best Practices
So you’ve booked your hotel and flight and are protected with traveler’s insurance, but what should you expect once you finally land in Thailand? Here are a few things that will help you enjoy your trip and show respect to the local Thais.
Wearing Masks
Masks are no longer compulsory but are still recommended when in public places. You’ll see that many Thai people (and visitors) wear masks when out and about. You will not get in trouble if you don’t wear a mask, but it is a case of “do as the locals do.” It is about respect and consideration.
Documents to Keep on Hand
Though the Thailand Pass has been removed and travelers do not need to provide proof before entry, it is best to prepare a few documents before arriving, such as:
- Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC)
- Proof of Financial Means
- Thai Visa (if applicable)
- Proof of Accommodation
- Return/Onward Ticket
Keeping these documents handy will speed up your processing time before leaving your country and will prevent delays if you are asked to provide vaccination or testing proof in a random check. These documents can be presented in digital form, but airlines, immigration, and health officers will appreciate the extra effort if you print them and will likely send you on your way quicker.
Royal Thai Embassy, Canberra
The Royal Thai Embassy in Canberra, Australia, can be found at 111 Empire Circuit Yarralumla ACT 2600. There is also another embassy in Sydney. For assistance, do not hesitate to contact the Royal Thai Embassy near your location or just email your questions to [email protected] or contact them at +61 2 6206 0100.
13 Responses
It is so difficult for visa for Thailand, I cannot find the page how to apply for visa.
it was easy before.
Hi John,
Here is the link: https://www.thaievisa.go.th/
Do I need TDAC if I am only changing planes at Bangkok International airport?
Dear Nigel,
You do not need to submit TDAC if you will only change aircraft and you will only go through security check.
You will submit TDAC if you will be changing planes (different airlines) and you need to go through passport control. Please check with the airline if there is a need for you to do passport control or not.
Thank you.
My son is Australian and is staying longer than 30 days in Thailand.
Does he need to get an extension?
Dear Tim,
The Visa Exemption for Australian nationals is valid for 60 days starting on the date of arrival.
Thank you.
hello , last time i visited thailand , earlier this year , i got 60 days without a visa , also i didnt have to fill out any digital or otherwise immigration form , please advise me on the changes for my booked holiday in June .Thankyou
TDAC is a new requirement as of 1st of May 2025.
Is it now necessary to complete a digital arrival card as some websites advise.
do i need a visa to stay in Thailand for 33 days if I am an Australian Citizen
Hi Michael,
As an Australian citizen, you are eligible for the 60-day free visa-exempt entry and do not need a visa to enter Thailand.
Just make sure to file the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) within 3 days before your arrival: https://tdac.immigration.go.th/arrival-card/#/home
Good morning.
My partner and I are both permanent residences of Australia. She was born in Britain but has lived in Australia for over 50 years.
I am a New Zealander permanently living in Australia and have lived here for 10 years.
Are we required to apply for a visa as we have booked a holiday in Thailand in late April 2025
Hello Mike,
For passport holders from Australia, the UK, or New Zealand, no visa is required for stays up to 60 days under the visa exemption program. Be sure to complete your Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) online within 3 days prior to your arrival.
Here is the official link: https://tdac.immigration.go.th/arrival-card/#/home