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Everything you need to know for your vacation before you leave

Writer's picture: WendyWendy

So, you're going to Thailand! Top choice! The land of smiles, of temples, of delicious food and of beaches you could just lie on for a whole day. But before you pack your suitcase, it's useful to know a few things. Because believe us, a little preparation saves a lot of time and stress.



Travel documents for a vacation to Thailand
Airport, Koh Samui, Thailand

4. Key points




1. Travel documents for a vacation to Thailand

The required travel documents for a vacation to Thailand differ by nationality. Below is an overview for Dutch, Belgian, German, British and American nationals:



Dutch and Belgians

Passport:

  • Validity: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months upon arrival in Thailand.

  • Damage: Make sure your passport is in good condition with no damage.

  • Multiple passports: Do you have multiple passports? Then travel with the passport that is valid the longest.

  • Empty pages: Make sure you have enough blank pages so that there is room to put stamps


Visa: When do you need one?

  • Shorter than 60 days: If you are a Dutch or Belgian staying in Thailand for less than 60 days, you do not need a visa. Upon arrival, you will get a stamp in your passport with the departure date.

  • Longer than 60 days: A visa is required for stays longer than 60 days. You can apply for this in advance online.


Types of visas: There are different types of visas available, such as tourist visas, business visas and long-stay visas. The right choice depends on your travel purpose.



Germans

Passport:

  • Validity: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months upon arrival in Thailand.

  • Damage: Make sure your passport is in good condition with no damage.

  • Empty pages: Make sure you have enough blank pages so that there is room to put stamps


Visa: When do you need one?

  • Shorter than 60 days: If you are a Dutch or Belgian staying in Thailand for less than 60 days, you do not need a visa. Upon arrival, you will get a stamp in your passport with the departure date.

  • Longer than 60 days: A visa is required for stays longer than 60 days. You can apply for this in advance online.


Types of visas: There are different types of visas available, such as tourist visas, business visas and long-stay visas. The right choice depends on your travel purpose.



Brit (Residents of the United Kingdom).

Passport:

  • Validity: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months upon arrival in Thailand.

  • Damage: Make sure your passport is in good condition with no damage.

  • Empty pages: Make sure you have enough blank pages so that there is room to put stamps


Visa: When do you need one?

  • Shorter than 60 days: If you are a Dutch or Belgian staying in Thailand for less than 60 days, you do not need a visa. Upon arrival, you will get a stamp in your passport with the departure date.

  • Longer than 60 days: A visa is required for stays longer than 60 days. You can apply for this in advance online.



Americans

Passport:

  • Validity: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months upon arrival in Thailand.

  • Damage: Make sure your passport is in good condition with no damage.

  • Empty pages: Make sure you have enough blank pages so that there is room to put stamps


Visa: When do you need one?

  • Shorter than 30 days: If you are a Dutch or Belgian staying in Thailand for less than 30 days, you do not need a visa. Upon arrival, you will get a stamp in your passport with the departure date.

  • Longer than 30 days: A visa is required for stays longer than 30 days. You can apply for this in advance online.


Note: Although the rules are quite simple for many nationalities, they can change. It is therefore always advisable to get the latest information from the Thai embassy or consulate in your country, or from a travel agent, before departure.



Useful links:

Apply for visa Thailand: https://yourvisa.nl/thailand-visum





U.S. Embassy & Consulates in Thailand: https://th.usembassy.gov/


General information for all nationalities, Thailand Tourism: Thailand Tourism's official website offers comprehensive information on sightseeing, accommodation, transportation and other practical matters. Look here for inspiration for your trip: https://www.tourismthailand.org/


Tip: It is always advisable to check the websites of the Thai embassy or consulate in your country for the latest information on visa requirements and other travel formalities.


Tip: Always make a copy of your passport and keep it separate from the original. Should your passport be lost or stolen, you will have a copy on hand to file a police report.




2. Important Addresses in Thailand

Just in case.

It is always wise to be prepared for unexpected situations during your trip. Below is an overview of important contact details and addresses in Thailand.



Embassies and Consulates

Should you find yourself in an emergency situation, it is useful to know where the nearest embassy or consulate is. This is where you can go for help and support.



Netherlands:

Embassy of the Netherlands in Bangkok:

Contact details:



Belgium:

Embassy of Belgium in Bangkok:

Contact details:



Germany:

Embassy of Germany in Bangkok:

Contact details:



United Kingdom:

Embassy of the United Kingdom in Bangkok:

Contact details:



United States:

Embassy of the United States in Bangkok:

Contact details:



Hospitals and doctors

It is advisable to take out travel insurance that covers medical expenses prior to your trip. Should you still need medical attention, it is useful to know where to go.


International hospitals in Bangkok:

Bumrungrad International Hospital:

Contactgegevens:

  • Adres: 33 Soi Sukhumvit 3, Khwaeng Khlong Toei Nuea, Watthana, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10110, Thailand

  • Telefoon: +66 2066 8888



Local hospitals:

There are local hospitals in every town and village. Ask at your accommodation or a local guide for advice.



Tips for tourists:

  • Contact your travel insurance: Ask which hospitals cooperate with it and what the procedure is.

  • Gather medical documentation: Bring all relevant medical information, such as test results and medications.

  • Search online reviews: Read experiences of other patients to get a better idea of the hospital.

  • Consult your doctor: Get advice from your doctor on which hospitals in Bangkok he or she recommends.




Please note: This information is intended as a general guide and may change. It is always advisable to obtain the latest information from the relevant embassies or consulates before departure.




3. Important telephone numbers

  • General emergency number: 191

    This number connects you to the police for all types of emergencies.


  • Tourist police: 1155

    This number is specifically for tourists and is usually in English.


  • Ambulance:

    Bangkok: 1646

    Rest of Thailand: 1669


  • Fire brigade: 199


Important: It is always advisable to save these numbers in your phone or other easily accessible place.



Other useful numbers:

Travel and tourism information: 1672



Tips:

SIM card: Consider buying a local SIM card to make easy calls and use the internet.

Travel insurance: Make sure you have good travel insurance that covers medical expenses.



Emergency contacts: Let family and friends know where you are staying and give them an emergency number where they can reach you.



Note: This information is intended as a general guideline and may change. It is always advisable to obtain the latest information from the relevant embassies or consulates before departure.



land of smiles, of temples, of delicious food and of beaches you could just lie on for a whole day.
Airport Koh Samui, Thailand

4. Key points

  • Financial resources: Make sure you can demonstrate that you have sufficient financial resources for your stay in Thailand.

  • Travel insurance: It is highly recommended that you take out proper travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

  • Confirmation of accommodation: You may be asked to show confirmation of your accommodation on arrival.

  • Application Process: The extension process may involve submitting specific documents and paying a fee.

  • Approval is Not Guaranteed: The granting of a visa extension is at the discretion of the Thai Immigration authorities.

  • Timing: Processing an extension request can take several days. So be sure to take action well in advance.



Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

  • Can I as a Dutch or Belgian extend my visa in Thailand? Yes, under certain conditions you can extend your visa in Thailand. Please enquire about this at the immigration office.


  • Can I as a German, Brit, American extend my visa in Thailand? Yes, under certain conditions you can extend your visa in Thailand. Please enquire about this at the immigration office.


  • What should I do if I lose my passport in Thailand? Contact the embassy in Thailand directly








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The people behind Yim Travel!

Wendy and Lili are two friends united by a passion for travel. Wendy, originally from the Netherlands and now living in Belgium, has a deep connection to Asia, especially Thailand, and a love for cruises. She often travels with her family and can always be tempted by Thai street food, Pad Kra Pao, and red wine.

Lili spent 30 years in South America and enjoys exploring Europe and her home continent with her partner. She shares Wendy’s love for cruising and is always up for Ben & Jerry’s or Tony Chocolonely chocolate.

Together, they explore the world’s most beautiful destinations and share their adventures on their travel blog, we-travelnow.com.

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