Updated on June 13, 2025, Bangkok, Thailand
Thailand offers an array of delicacies, a diverse culture, and stunning beaches and mountain ranges to explore, which makes it the perfect holiday destination if you’re an American looking for new experiences. And right now is no better time to book your ticket if you’re traveling to Thailand from the United States of America, because of the low restrictions and entry requirements.
Travel Restrictions on Americans 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- The traditional TM6 arrival card has been replaced by the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC Thailand).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 the USA
Visa Exemption Scheme
Americans 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 Washington DC. 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 over there, it is worth having a look at the Thailand Elite Visa.
The Thailand Elite Visa is available through the Thailand Privilege program and allows you to live uninterrupted in Thailand for up to 5, 10, 15, or even 20+ 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 Americans 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 the USA. The paperwork can be quite involved, but there are people that can help, like Siam Legal, a reputable law firm in Thailand that employs English-speaking Thai immigration specialists. We’ve been helping Americans 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 (Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, Phuket, Chiang Mai, etc.) and travel onward without restrictions—there are no more “sealed” flights or mandatory domestic transit rules. Domestic flights do not require proof of vaccination or COVID testing, although airlines may still request documentation such as vaccination records or test results on a case-by-case basis
Important: As of May 1, 2025, all travelers (excluding pure transit or Border Pass holders) must complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) online within 3 days before arrival, replacing the old paper TM6 form .
If you are transiting through another country, check with your airline for specific testing or entry requirements at layover stops.
Finding Accommodation in Thailand
There are no quarantine or testing requirements for booking accommodation in Thailand. You’re free to choose any hotel, guesthouse, or rental property upon arrival.
Platforms like Agoda remain excellent for comparing and booking accommodations with flexible reservation and cancellation options.
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
Although the Thailand Pass is no longer required, it’s still smart to have these documents ready before you travel:
- Passport with at least six months’ validity
- Thai visa stamp or Thai visa exemption record (if applicable)
- Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) confirmation
- Travel insurance certificate (print or digital)
- Return/Onward Ticket
Immigration and airlines may perform random document checks. Having everything printed and ready, especially your TDAC QR code and insurance certificate, will help ensure a faster, smoother arrival.
Royal Thai Embassy, Washington DC
The Royal Thai Embassy in Washington DC, USA, can be found at 1024 Wisconsin Ave., N.W., Washington. There are also consulates in New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago. 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 202-944-3600.
