I've just spent over 2 hours trying to apply for visas for me and Laurie to visit our holiday home in Thailand. The process is online only, whereas we used to go to the Thai embassy in London and talk to a human being. The online application proceess was tedious as there were so many documents to upload, including passport (photo page plus pages to show no international travel in past 12 months), recent photo, plus additional photo holding open passport, airline tickets, proof of earnings, proof of UK residency, proof of ownership of property in Thailand, signed declaration. This is followed by payment, then what happens next - the site crashed on me!!!!!!!! I'm going to wait to see if I hear anything in the next 24 hours, and if the payment goes through. Finger crossed I don't have to go through that again! Once the visa is approved (assuming it is), next step is to book covid PCR tests in the UK and in Thailand, plus book 1 day for quarantine in Thailand while we wait for the (negative) PCR test result. Finally, at least 7 days before travel we need to apply for a Thailand pass or we won't make it past the airport in Thailand! So many hoops to jump through just to visit our own holiday home!!!!! I feel a headache coming on!
TLDR : Answer Summary
The process of applying for a tourist visa to Thailand has become increasingly complicated, especially during the pandemic. The applicant faced a tedious online application requiring various documents including passport pages, proof of residency, and proof of property ownership. Issues arose due to the system crashing after a lengthy application process. Once the visa is approved, additional steps include booking PCR tests and applying for the Thailand Pass, essential for entering the country. The community discussion highlights frustrations and advice related to the current travel regulations, indicating that many are navigating similar challenges.
