Ask question
This is NOT an official government website. We are an independent resource providing information and assistance to travelers.

Is Penang a good option for obtaining a Thai visa, and is a plane ticket necessary?

Jun 13, 2023
3 years ago
Henk *********
ORIGINAL POSTER
Is Penang a good place to make thai visa and is a plane ticket required?
1,919
views
36
all likes
15
replies
11
users
TLDR : Answer Summary
The conversation discusses the feasibility of obtaining a Thai visa in Penang, Malaysia. While some commenters highlight that Penang is a popular destination for expats, others point out its challenges, noting that it might be one of the more difficult consulates to deal with compared to others in Southeast Asia, like Vientiane. There are concerns regarding the requirement of a plane ticket for the visa application process. It is suggested to consider applying for an eVisa or exploring alternatives before traveling to Penang.
Richard *********
Banana GH and Jim ( both on Chula street) the top 2 for assisting wiht visas before, no longer assist with visas as you need go in person to the embassy
Like
Reply
Mark **********
Depending on the visa it's average, I used agents there a few years ago and never had trouble and they are relatively cheap
Like
Reply
Onne ***********
snel en goed
Like
Reply
Jeff ********
yes.. I recommend inviting the embassy officials for drinks
Like
Reply
Walker *********
Yes, with an agent. And yes.
Like
Reply
Richard *********
Penang is one of my favorite places in SE Asia>> Georgetown is special
Like
Reply
Allan ********
I’d say it’s the best option. Train is best way to go from Bangkok etc. full guide here:
*********************************************************************
Like
Reply
Henk *********
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Allan *******
Thanks for the link, so it seems difficult to make 60 day visa without plane tickets.
Like
Reply
Allan ********
@Henk ********
I’ve never had an issue. This may be handy tho:
*************************
Like
Reply
Reply to
Allan ********
Reply
Henrik **************
I wouldn't recommend it..

Vientiane is my go to when it comes to getting visa from a thai consulate in SE Asia.
Like
Reply
Henk *********
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Henrik *************
Yes but I will arrive via Malaysia, or I must use my free 30 day overland visa, and do an extension.
Like
Reply
Reply to
Henk *********
Reply
Frank-Steven ***********
Seems to be one of the more difficult consulates. Check e.g. Google reviews. Would have never assumed a plane ticket could be required. Afterall, it is in a neighboring country and close to popular land-borders with train crossings. But TIT, you never know. I would always try to get a visa by eVisa from a Thai consulate in my country of residence, first, before queuing up and waiting around for arbitrary rules at some physical location.
Like
Reply
Henk *********
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Frank-Steven **********
The last time I tried in Kota Bharu maybe 5 years ago, they wanted bank balance info and tickets in and out. Thought maybe Penang was easier
Like
Reply
Reply to
Henk *********
Reply
AxMdob *******
I follow
Like
Reply
Roberto *********
It's a long way to walk
Like
Reply
Reply to
Roberto *********
Reply
Thai Visa Advice and Everything Else
... members · 60% approval rate
The Thai Visa Advice And Everything Else group allows for a broad range of discussions on life in Thailand, beyond just visa inquiries.
Join the Group
Thai Visa Advice and Everything Else
View the Conversation
Thai Visa Advice and Everything Else
The ask:thailand community, consisting of multiple Q/A groups with over 100,000 members, powers this platform. It is not an official government resource. Our members actively contribute to this resource, and while we strive for accuracy, we cannot guarantee its complete reliability. Assistance to travelers is provided as a community service.