Answereda month ago

How soon can you apply for a tourist visa to Thailand if arriving in January?

Thailand Visa Tourist Visa Visa Application Timing Visa Types Immigration Rules

Bonnie *********

asked Sep 15, 2026

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How soon can you apply for a tourist visa. We arrive in Bangkok January 5 to March 7

Answer summary

It's advisable to apply for a tourist visa for Thailand around 4 to 6 weeks before your departure, or ideally about 2 months in advance. The tourist visa is valid for 90 days from the date of issue, so applying too early (more than 90 days before your trip) is not recommended. Make sure to have both arrival and departure tickets, as this is necessary when applying for the visa.

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Steven ***************

Go to the Official Thai Government embassy and immigration WEB sites, there are several tourist visas, see the. Requirements for each and which best fits your desired plans and circumstances.

a month ago

Phil ******

Bonnie Roesler if arriving in January I recommend applying in November. You have 90 days to apply for the SETV or METV Visa

a month ago

Tiki *******

The tourist Visa is only valid for 90 days. You have to enter Thailand at least 1 day before your visa expires. Best time to apply for a tourist Visa is around 4 to 6 weeks before your holiday.

...and not forget 72 hours before arriving, fill out the TDAC.

a month ago

Doug *********

If you want bad information, then post your question on Facebook. There may be a correct answer, but you will never know which one it is.

a month ago

Franz **********

Lots of confusing experts on here 😅😅😅

a month ago

Jay ***********

They will require both arrival and departure tickets. If your departure is more than 60 days they will not issue you a tourist visa. You will have to apply for a non immigrant 90 days and that could prove to be difficult if you don’t know a Thai citizen

a month ago

Marcus *******

What country areyou from and how long are you staying ?

a month ago

Ralph *******

That’s 62 days. Do you plan to get a 30 day extension from immigration?

a month ago

Steve *********

I applied for one last week, 87 days before arrival, approved in 2 days

a month ago

Brandon ************

A tourist visa is valid for entering Thailand for 90-days from the day the embassy issues it. So you would not want to apply any earlier than 90-days before your trip. Most recommend about 2 months before your trip.

a month ago