Second attempt- to the admin who deleted previous effort "sorry, I had a typo (transposed word) that made it sound dumb(er than I usually sound)"
I am looking for someone with an American PASSPORT who has recently come to Thailand using the Visa Exempt scheme to confirm how it works and that I can literally just SHOW UP and be admitted.
Everything online makes it look super simple, but when I came before the application process was so intricate and tedious that this feels too good to be true. I don't want to let myself be blinded by how I hope it works and then screw up by not applying online in advance.
What I am seeing looks like I just buy a ticket, hop on a plane, DO NOT EVEN TELL THAILAND I AM COMING, and then do some paperwork in the airport in BKK.
I am trying to cram like 4 months of work into a 5 week trip and my brain is now a mushy tomato and I just don't want to screw up.
Thanks and sorry for taking up space with such a simple concept.
TLDR : Answer Summary
Yes, as an American passport holder, you can simply show up in Thailand and be admitted without needing to fill out any prior applications. Upon arrival, you will go through immigration, where your passport will be stamped for 45 days of stay, provided you meet a few informal requirements such as having an onward ticket and potentially showing sufficient funds (around 20,000 Baht). This process is designed to be straightforward, reflecting the country’s commitment to welcoming tourists.