Answered2 years ago
What additional requirements should I be aware of when traveling to Thailand with a visa from the USA?
Hi I’m traveling to Thailand from USA. I already have my visa, wondering what other requirements are needed. Any advice would be much appreciated. 🙏🏼
Answer summary
A traveler from the USA inquiring about additional requirements after obtaining a visa for Thailand received various advice from community members. Key points included suggestions such as bringing sufficient cash, understanding local customs, and showing respect in cultural contexts, especially when visiting temples. Recommendations emphasized the need for comfortable clothing, carrying an international driving license if planning to ride motorbikes, and using apps like Grab for transportation. There was also mention of downloading useful local apps and preparing for specific cultural practices, like the Wai greeting and appropriate dress codes at temples.
161 repliesnewest first
Click comment and we will ask for your email, then OTP, then name.
David *********
None. Didn’t even need a visa.
Steve **********
You didnt need a visa.
Carlos *********
Bring large denomination, unmarked or ripped bills. Passport with 6 mo. And money.
Greg ********
@Carlos ********
exchanges don't accept "ripped bills"Steve **********
Tipping is an American custom taken from old England.
Thais have become accustomed, so much so some bins at restraunts say 15% gratuity has been added for your convenience.
See how verbiage leads you to thank them.
Thais have become accustomed, so much so some bins at restraunts say 15% gratuity has been added for your convenience.
See how verbiage leads you to thank them.
Nigel ********
Don't tip every chance you get just leave the odd coins
ฉันเป็นทางของประชาชน *********
Just use ATM to get cash. SELECT CONTINUE WITHOUT CONVERSION. Every thousand baht approximately $30 so you don’t think you have big bucks. Feels like you’re loaded when you have baht but things that are expensive in America are still expensive here. Live like a Thai and you’ll be ballin👊🏽
Johnny **********
Above is true...but more immediately, if it is a short stay.....visit your local US bank before you leave and get some Thai currency...2000 to 4000 Baht or bring some extra money to convert. You will need it for the taxi/bus from the airport to your destination. Also, an unlocked smartphone for a Thai sim card is also helpful. I never could get Bolt/Food Panda or any Thai apps to work quite right using US based carriers. Maybe it was just me. And remember...the best part of visiting Thailand is when you arrive and the worst part of visiting Thailand is when you depart, so enjoy! Just be smart, respectful, and use common sense....Youtube can be helpful. It's a magical place and chances are...you will return. Have fun.
David ********
To get the best advice we need to know what type of visa you have....i.e tourist visa, retirement visa, business visa etc. etc. I think there are many visas available.
Kambiz ************
Money 💰
Alex ********
ATM card and condoms
Jay ***********
The Lonely Planet ( how we used to roll with it )
Gray *******
Anyone know a good place to go for the LTR visa?
Greg ***********
@Gray ******
**********************
Greg ***********
@Gray ******
you have to apply for the LTR visa on the BOI website!
Chris *******
Money lots of money
Mark *************************
You asking a jealous trolling bunch of farangs... Come here, the important ones will welcome you. They trolls? They wouldnt dare do jack even if they are in your face. Live your life, welcome to thailand.
James *********
If you're bringing ANY cash to exchange - make sure it's in new-ish $100 bills - with no markings, and dog-eared. Let your bank know ahead of time, and they'll have new ones for you.
Pete ********
Remember you are a guest. Respect goes a long way. Be polite and have a good time.
Robert **************
Condom
Russell *******
YouTube can also be a great tool. There are a lot of great Vlogs from Thailand. They go over the customs, what to do and not to do. Ie: Live Love Thailand, Coopers Thai Adventures, Retired Working For You… Just to name a few good YouTubers. You can learn a TON from these guys. They have tons of videos on what to do from the time you touch down and land at BKK.
Russell *******
YouTube can also be a great tool. There are a lot of great Vlogs from Thailand. They go over the customs, what to do and not to do. Ie: Live Love Thailand, Coopers Thai Adventures, Retired Working For You… Just to name a few good YouTubers. You can learn a TON from these guys. They have tons of videos on what to do from the time you touch down and land at BKK.
Bonnie *********
You’re traveling to a country and know absolutely nothing about it?
Peter ********
$$$. ATM card with no foreign fees. Unlocked phone that takes local SIM card. Open mind. That’s all you really need. Have fun.
Jamie *********
@Peter *******
Do you have a list of cards that don't charge foreign fees? I have been to Thailand 2x and going again in August. Thanks!Peter ********
@Jamie ********
No but there must be lists. My BOA Alaska card. My Amex card (only some of them). My credit union cards. There are lots. But certainly not all. Also there are cards like Schwab that also give back the he 220b that Thai banks charge for cash.
Pom ********
Travel insurance
Greg *********
Health insurance
Gino *********
Pocket full of cash
Mar *****
A good sense of Humour goes a long way 😎🤙🏽
Nicole ****************
Get a Wise card and a Charles Schwab account with a debit card. Charles Schwab will refund all ATM fees at the end of the month...Wise is a great back up just in case you lose your Charles Schwab card. Depending on airport arrival, book your transfer in advance in case they don't offer Grab or Bolt at the airport. Get THB when you land as you may have to pay cash for your transfer (Bolt).
Start taking a strong probiotic now and bring them with you and continue to take them. Bring activated charcoal with you in case you do end up with an upset stomach. That and coconut water will fix it.
Enjoy! It's such a beautiful country with lovely people!
Start taking a strong probiotic now and bring them with you and continue to take them. Bring activated charcoal with you in case you do end up with an upset stomach. That and coconut water will fix it.
Enjoy! It's such a beautiful country with lovely people!
Ned *******
You just need comfortable clothes, a visa or Mastercard credit/debit card, and you'll get a visa exemption stamp when you pass through the passport check (no hassle). Just make sure to say "60 day visa" maybe they'll give you 60 days instead of 30 (worked for some people). Enjoy Thailand!
Stefan *******
💰💸💳
Colin *********
@Tammy ********
all that for a man? Do you know something about Sam that nobody else here knows? 🤣
Tammy *********
@Colin ********
no I made mistakes I thought it’s for woman. Sorry
Robert *****
Seriously the only cash you should bring are crisp new $100 bills. For exchanging at the various money kiosk. Just exchange enough at the airport to get you thru a couple days then you’ll find a better exchange rate outside the airport. You’ll have an amazing time. 🙏
Zoe ******
You don’t need a visa to visit Thailand as a US citizen. Thailand is very foreigner friendly country. You do need some cash, not all places take cards. Most Thai people use their phone app to pay but you won’t be able to because you won’t have a Thai bank account. Sim/data cards are easy to get at
****
. Foods are plentiful and affordable. Download grab or bolt for car service, it’s more convenient and safer than taxis. Show respect to the people, the culture and the temples. Wear clothing that cover up, I’ve see too many westerners wear inappropriate clothing at temples. Thai people show respect by putting their hands together and bow. Thank you in Thai is: kop khun krap(if you are a man) kop khun ka (if you are a woman) oh and don’t drink tap water under any circumstances.
Neil *********
Vaccines
Carlo ******************
Money, good attitude and patience...
Pierre *******
Viagra and condoms.
Greg ********
@Pierre ******
and redbull for intermissions
William ************
The fact that you are asking these questions suggests a degree of potential vulnerability. Don’t look for love or you’ll find yourself in a financial dependency relationship where you always do the financing bit , that is until you run out of money.
Sam ********
OP@William ***********
Are you OK?Bonnie *********
@Sam *******
I see you are probably someone who will come here crying when you do exactly what you were warned about.Colin *********
@Sam *******
what William said has happened a lot when foreign guys go looking for love in Bars etc., where there's plenty of young Thai women eager to find a foreign partner. If you're in tourist Bar/nightclub areas there's no shortage of young women 'throwing themselves' at you & the majority might 'give themselves to you', but with the goal of you providing for them and their families. Away from these areas, there's definitely some very nice women who can make lovely wives, very caring and loyal.
Kim *********
@Colin ********
spot on 👍Sam ********
OP@Colin ********
yes you’re right. ThanksColin *********
@Sam *******
read your own post that you put out there originally...you never asked about travel insurance. In your original post, it seemed (not only to me) that you have little or no experience with Thailand and were asking for general advice. If you follow my comment up to where this thought started (up the chain, so to speak), I was just adding some thoughts to what others had said previously. If the advice isn't what you're looking for, ignore it and perhaps be more specific in what advice you want in future.Sam ********
OP@Colin ********
I just don’t understand what does that have to do with my question about whether it’s required to have medical travel insurance before entering Thailand? William ************
@Sam *******
Fine Sam thanks
Bob *********
Tap water or the 1 baht water should never enter your body. Don't even think about brushing your teeth with it. After 45 days I received an amazing yeast infection in my mouth, bacterial pneumonia, and nasty dry cough. I couldn't find cough medicine at the near by pharmacy's so I flew to the philippines for some and a real US style pizza
Bonnie *********
@Bob ********
I completely disagree. I’ve been brushing my teeth with tap water for over 30 years.
Shane *********
They only accept cash basically everywhere…
Dean *************
Lots of cash.
Ed ********
Sunscreen
Geo ******
Condoms
Mathias *******
Pocket full of money, credit card
Ron ********
Bring one liter of your favorite liquor. The same stuff is 2 to 3 times the price here. One bottle is all they allow in.
Colin *********
@Ron *******
isn't there a big import duty? Or do they have the duty free allowance of a certain amount? I'm not really a drinker, so I'm not familiar, but might think about it as a gift next time I'm thereRon ********
@Colin ********
No duty on one 1 liter bottle. Plus that is the limit allowed in. That is my understanding anyway. I am no great expert. If I am incorrect, about 20 gentlemen will tell us muy pronto! Ha Ha!
Gary ******
Hey Sam how long do you plan on staying here? And do you know where you want to visit here? 🤙🏻
John ********
Lots & lots of money for the girls
Harold ********
@John *******
John you out a lot. lots and lots and lots of money 😊John ********
@Harold *******
I think you should be replying to Steve McCarthy not meSteve **********
@John *******
why ?
Ste *****************
Lots of cash
Steve **********
@Ste ****************
dont need a lot, an advantage to tourists visiting.
Thomas ********
Be prepared to eat, eat ,and eat. When you met up with Thai friends you eat .
Leslie *******
do not keep connection with tuk tuk people.
Alain ***************
Amererican tourists are known for talking loud. Keep that at home, please. Officially need to bring 20k thb (in any currency) but i don’t know anyone who was asked to show. Don’t dress like a homeless 😂 Thai people understand that foreign tourists don’t know everything about their culture and forgive most mistakes
Steve **********
@Alain **************
Don't act the ' ugly American ' that term was appropriate once, let's change it.Alain ***************
@Steve *********
it’s from a travel YouTube channel wolters world. I didn’t say ugly. ************************************************
James ***********
@Alain **************
and please never talk more than 20 seconds in public coffeehouse or restaurant on a cell phone… If in a coffeehouse or any wonderful Thai establishment,please use earplugs if you’re listening to a video…
Mike *********
What visa did you already get? If you are going on holiday and staying 30 days or less US passport holders don’t need a visa. You will need cash a good credit card. Every thing else is at 7-11 😂 No joke 😎 Safe travels 🙏🏼
Richard **************
Don’t “wai” everyone. Save them for the police. Pack less If you are going before October bring an umbrella and rain coat
Colin *********
@Richard *************
I thought raincoats should be carried at all times... at least in places like Pattaya, Phuket and around Nana Plaza, Soi Cowboy etc 🤣🤣🤣Ron ********
@Richard *************
It is my understanding wai's should be returned if offered by anyone. Plus a person should learn the different meanings relative to how high your Wai is.Russell *******
@Ron *******
3 different ones I believe. But yes, it’s a different culture.. I’d embrace it and learn it. RespectfullyColin *********
@Ron *******
"learn the different meanings relative to how high your Wai is"? Please enlighten us, or me at least 🙏🙏🙏Colin *********
@Bonnie ********
Troll... and you're the baby, very immature!Bonnie *********
@Colin ********
Poor baby.Ron ********
@Colin ********
Kind thanks my friend. I try to be humble, respectful, and unassuming here on the groups, but I have lost my cool a few times! Ha Ha! Good luck and safe travels!Colin *********
@Bonnie ********
ohh, we've got a smart a*s response eh? What @Ron *******
said about different types of "Wai" seemed to me like something that perhaps only those with considerable experience in Thailand would be familiar with, so I asked him,not thinking that Google would have that depth of information about the "Wai"!A word of caution: karma can be a b*tch too
Colin *********
@Ron *******
ok, I'll try and research it. It looked like something that Google wouldn't have information on, that's why I asked you, as you seemed to know something that I hadn't heard mention of before. I appreciate you "humbly" suggesting searching Google and not being a smart a*s like @Bonnie ********
.Ron ********
@Colin ********
It is sort of involved. I would humbly suggest Googling it.Bonnie *********
@Colin ********
Oh, is your google broken?
Mark ********
@Richard *************
Totally disagree.James ***********
@Richard *************
WAI NOT ? 🙏Steve **********
@Tammy ********
Tammy, I think the traveller is a HE, a shawl and skirt, may give people the wrong impression.Tammy *********
@Steve *********
hahaha sorry about that. My bad. Men also need at least shirt to get in temple, like going to church.Steve **********
Haven't been to a church in 40 years, but do go to a Wat a few times per month.
Steve **********
@Tammy ********
just left wat chedi luang an hour ago.Tammy *********
@Steve *********
nice. Beautiful, right
Sue **********
International Driving Licence, if you want to ride motorbike you need to have a US bike licence.
Steve **********
Very blank canvas !
Your age, pronoun, interests, have you travelled to diff culture before. You chose Thailand...why ?
What are your expectations .
It's a VERY varied country.
Mountains, Sea, Rural, Urban ?
I 1st came 21 years ago.
Still hear !
Google a lot prior,
Your age, pronoun, interests, have you travelled to diff culture before. You chose Thailand...why ?
What are your expectations .
It's a VERY varied country.
Mountains, Sea, Rural, Urban ?
I 1st came 21 years ago.
Still hear !
Google a lot prior,
Steve **********
Aaron *******
@Steve *********
If you wish to avoid paying police at traffic stop, you need IDL, easily obtained pre-trip at any AAA location in US.Aaron *******
@Steve *********
Just offering practical advice. I wouldn't advise someone to do something illegal, even if it may not be enforced all the time.Steve **********
@Aaron ******
why would I go to a AAA, have lived in Thailand for 22 years, without a traffic ticket.
Clint *********
@Steve *********
liesSteve **********
Bonnie *********
@Steve *********
No, it doesn’t.Steve **********
@Bonnie ********
can you correct me.Bonnie *********
@Steve *********
I see you’ve got some anger (and spelling/grammar) issues to display.Steve **********
@Bonnie ********
appears 'you're' a frustated or unemployed school teacher.
You may want to re-read my post ...
or may not !
Mark ********
@Bonnie ********
Yeah Steve it's "you're". 😂Bonnie *********
@Steve *********
First of all, it is “you’re”, a contraction of you and are. If your license does not indicate Class C, Thai DLT will not give you a motorcycle license. Check the DLT site.Steve **********
Mark ********
Just do the opposite of what the Russians do here and you'll be welcomed with open arms.
Bonnie *********
@Mark *******
People from your/my country are just as bad; they’re the ones pointing fingers at others.
Doug *********
@Bonnie ********
you are actually pointing, with your words, while accusing others of pointing. Interesting.Mark ********
@Bonnie ********
Russians are disgusting. They should be banned from everywhere until they learn to be human.Bonnie *********
@Mark *******
So are idiots from English speaking countries. You’re all the same.James ***********
@Mark *******
yes, being respectful and appreciative of the amazing Thai people is key 🙏❤️🌏
Jo **********
You already have your visa? I thought US citizenship didn't need a visa to go to Thailand. Anyway, I didn't need one🤔
Colin *********
@Steve *********
it's not visa on arrival for USA citizens either. It's Visa Exempt, no visa requiredSteve **********
@Colin ********
ya, caught that after i pushed send.
Henrik *****
Everything send, can be edited / corrected or deleted.
Steve **********
@Colin ********
oh so often, and I don't pick up on it until someone tells me how uneducated I am.They're usually from deep Mississippi
Colin *********
@Steve *********
yeh, a bit like typing responses in a smartphone... All looks good until after hitting 'send', then you realised that 'autocorect' had different ideas 🙄😂
Brandon ************
@Jo *********
that's fine if you're only coming for a short visit. But if you want to stay longer you'll need a visaJo **********
@Brandon ***********
Okay. Thanks
Jay ****
Enjoy. Don't drink and ride. If you don't know how to ride a motorbike, don't start learning here. Shoes off in people's homes. Respect goes a long way. People are much kinder and genuine than the states. MUCH BETTER and healthier food. Try everything.
Peter *****************
,lots lots of cash and credit card.Everyone shower you with lots lots of love and bom bom.
Sherman **********
No American express
Peter *****************
@Sherman *********
Visa and master much appreciate.Tammy *********
Just bring money 💰 everything else you can get it there. Bring a shawl to cover up if u will visit palace, or temples grounds. Bring long skirt to wear too. Anything above knees is not permitted in temple.
Bonnie *********
@Tammy ********
Read do’s/dont’s. Follow them.Colin *********
@Tammy ********
all that for a man? Do you know something about Sam that nobody else here knows? 🤣Tammy *********
@Colin ********
sorry that was for women. I made a mistake.
Darren *********
@Tammy ********
I always wear shorts around the temple
Kim ********
@Darren ********
I have seen women sent to buy over priced clothes across the street to enter the grand palace grounds. Personally, I respect the Thai customs and always cover my shoulders and kneesBonnie *********
@Darren ********
So you can’t respect Thai culture. There are signs at the entrances to temple complexes. You must be from my home country.Henrik *****
Then you shouldn’t go there.
Lack of respect.
Lack of respect.
Henrik *****
Others behaving wrong and disrespectful, is the worst excuse to do the same.
Darren *********
@Henrik ****
Saw lots of Thais passing through the temple grounds today wearing shorts and flip flops 🩴 Velkommen på landet
Gray *******
Real advice. Wrap up, respect the royal family, download bolt and grab apps (Uber/lyft), download “get your guide” app. Contact me for local spots. I live here. Blessings and have fun.
Marty *********
Don't bring a woman back with you
Jeff ********
@Marty ********
bringing a Thai woman back to the US is not that easy.
Ulrich ******
Jeff Schott or Smart, 85 % of them will connect with other Thai women in the USA.
They will share very fast of how they can turn you into profits…
Don’t do it, and if you do, make sure you have dame good prenup signed first, before you sign anything else…
They will share very fast of how they can turn you into profits…
Don’t do it, and if you do, make sure you have dame good prenup signed first, before you sign anything else…
Marty *********
@Ulrich *****
yes. I WOULD NEVER BRING ANOTHER 1 BACK. 12,000 TO 17,000 FOR LADY AND SON JUST A GUESS ON PRICEUlrich ******
@Marty ********
It’s better to stay there and enjoy, if you need to come back, do it by yourself…Marty *********
@Ulrich *****
brought one from the PHILIPPINES ABOUT 4 TO 5 YEARS AGO SHE RAN OFF 4 TP 6 WEEKS AFTER SHE GOT THE USA
Eddie ******
@Marty ********
No, make sure the person you bring back is a womanColin *********
@Marty ********
why not if she's a good one 🤷🏼😂
Leo **********
Just have the courage and be polite. Not a kiss ass, but genuinely polite. That's a good start.
Sam ********
OP@Jeff *******
what’s the point of this group?Jeff ********
@Sam *******
read my last comment on the subthread above. That will tell you plainly.Jeff ********
@Sam *******
nope.. if I was, I wouldn't bother explaining.Sam ********
OP@Jeff *******
you just trying to be funny here aren’t you?
Darren *********
@Jeff *******
well funny but isn’t this the point of this group to get questions answered by real people instead of google??Sam ********
OP@Darren ********
thank youJeff ********
@Darren ********
common sense prevails. I don't think the point of this group is to provide answers to people that research can provide. Alternatively, this group should be supplemental and offer advice to those who have already exhausted an initial effort.
Mike *******
@Jeff *******
Perfect! 👏👏Leo **********
@Jeff *******
that's pure goldActivity
80 joined80
people
Related
25What do I need to prepare for my METV application before traveling to Thailand in December?
800753mo
What are the requirements for crossing from Thailand to Laos and back while on a DTV visa?
1.8k16163mo
What are the requirements for the DTV process in Vietnam regarding bank statements, payslips, and proof of self-sufficiency?
434211y
What should I put as the purpose of travel and do I need a return flight date when using a non-immigrant O spouse visa to travel to Bangkok?
739531y
Do I need a return ticket when entering Thailand with a re-entry O visa?
448111y
What visa requirements do I need to consider when traveling to Thailand from New Zealand for 10 days?
1.3k5102y
Can I travel to Thailand for 60 days without a visa while also visiting Vietnam and Bali?
2.6k21162y
What should I do about visa requirements for my upcoming trip to Thailand?
11.9k1021222y
What are the best travel destinations in Thailand for nature lovers during late March to April 2024, considering the burning season?
1.6k963y
Is it still easy to obtain a Thai visa in Vientiane, Laos, and what transportation options are available from Chiang Mai?
2.6k22154y
Do I need a visa or certificate of entry to travel from California to Thailand for a 2-week stay?
35314y
Do New Zealand citizens require visas to visit Thailand for a week?
1.3k1054y
What are the latest experiences and requirements for completing the Thai Pass since the new rules on May 1st?
2k15134y
What are the requirements for unvaccinated travelers from Australia to Thailand for a visit?
1.7k1565y
How long should my insurance cover be for the Thailand Pass while on an ED visa in Thailand?
794525y
What are the latest updates on Thailand's tourism restrictions and requirements for travelers?
5.2k35705y
Is the Johnson and Johnson one-shot vaccine accepted for travel to Thailand?
659345y
Can I travel to Thailand on a one-way ticket with a 60-day tourist visa, and what insurance coverage do I need?
6.1k60375y
What do I need to prepare for my first trip to Thailand from the U.S. in terms of entry requirements?
558216y
What should you do if you test positive for COVID-19 when leaving Thailand?
4.3k43236y
Is it difficult to travel from the UK to Thailand with KLM during current restrictions?
12.3k1141026y
What requirements does a US traveler need to enter Thailand without a visa during COVID-19?
6.1k53556y
What should I prepare for traveling to Thailand from Delhi, especially to Pattaya?
8.6k71886y
What visa options are available for my Mexican husband to enter Thailand after being denied entry?
4k34319y
What are the visa requirements for Australians and Malagasy passport holders traveling to Thailand from Madagascar?
561229y
Resources
Need help with your Thai visa?
#1 visa agent · 4,000+ reviews · 100,000+ expats served