Is it true that airports in Thailand are requiring tourists to show 20,000 baht upon entry?

Feb 22, 2019
6 years ago
Shaun ********
ORIGINAL POSTER
Rumours going around about some airports asking tourists to show 20,000b..What airports?.
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TLDR : Answer Summary
There are confirmed reports that tourists can be asked by Thai immigration officers to present 20,000 baht in cash or equivalent currency upon entering Thailand. This requirement, though not new, has gained attention due to increased enforcement. Travelers should be prepared to provide proof of funds, accommodation, and onward travel at any point of entry, including airports and land borders.
Tod *********
Okay we can put this "rumor" into the FACT column.

Despite the fact that many people will weigh in with their 2 satangs worth of information stating they were never asked EVERYONE entering the country CAN be asked at ANY point of entry.

No matter if you're entering on a visa exempt, tourist visa or a Non-O visa of any type you CAN definitely be asked to show the 3-proof-ofz

proof of funds (20K baht or the equivalent) in CASH

proof of onward travel (within the time you'll be stamped in for)

proof of a hotel booking or confirmed lodging.

Now as a general rule people on long term extensions of stays are NOT asked but they certainly can be.

It has to do with your previous entry history to thailand AND the mood of that immigration officer on that day at the exact second you're stamping into the country on.

I'd say IF you have a history of living here on back to back tourist visa or visa exempt entries you run a much higher risk of being questioned when you fly into the country.
Steve *******
Any port of entry not just airports
James ********
Its not a rumor. You can be asked. Its up to the Thai Immigration Officer.
James ***********
It depends entirely on the officer that processes you. What things might trigger an officer to that? Things like your previous travel history, your appearance - do you look like the sort of person who will be selling hugs on Khao San to fund your travels, did the Chinese tourist before you wind him up, are you staying at an address outside of the usual tourist areas or it could be because he feels like doing his job
Steve *******
@James **********
I'd say less likely if you're staying outside of the tourist areas
Benjamin ******
It's not a rumor, it's a fact. Airports (and every border) can ask to see the triple proofs of 20K THB (or equivalent local currency), hotel booking, and an exit out.
Darren ********
It’s not a rumour, it is a requirement if you are asked

I have never been asked but better safe than sorry
Lisa ***************
This is not a rumour! It's a fact but it's not a new requirement either! It's just that immigration are on a huge crack down
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