This is going to sound stupid… But how strict is the 6 month passport validity? I’m trying to plan a last minute family trip and just found out that one of our passports will be under the 6 month mark by a few days. 😑 US Passport, 1 week trip in Thailand. Will be flying from Germany.
TLDR : Answer Summary
The strictness of the 6-month passport validity rule for traveling to Thailand is primarily contingent upon airline policies, not Thailand's own entry requirements. Thailand requires passports to be valid for the duration of the stay but does not enforce a blanket 6-month rule. However, many airlines implement their policy requiring at least 6 months of validity before allowing passengers to board; hence, it's crucial to check with the specific airline. Although the traveler might technically enter Thailand without the 6-month validity, the risk lies with the airline potentially denying boarding. If the passport is close to expiration, it's highly advisable to renew it before travel, especially for peace of mind.