Thailand
Southeast Asia • THA
Last updated: May 8, 2026
Thailand is a vibrant Southeast Asian nation renowned for its tropical beaches, opulent royal palaces, and ancient ruins. It offers a perfect blend of bustling city life in Bangkok and serene landscapes, all complemented by its world-famous culinary scene and hospitable culture.
Visa Requirements
Many nationalities, including most Western countries, can enter Thailand visa-free for tourism purposes for up to 60 days, with options to extend.
Typically Required Documents
- Passport with at least 6 months validity
- Proof of onward travel
- Evidence of sufficient funds
- Completed arrival card
- Digital travel authorization if applying for the electronic visa
Popular Attractions
The Grand Palace in Bangkok is a stunning complex of buildings that served as the official residence of the Kings of Siam and features intricate architectural details.
Wat Arun, also known as the Temple of Dawn, is an iconic riverside landmark famous for its colorful spires that sparkle in the sunlight.
Chiang Mai's Old City is home to numerous historic temples and serves as a gateway to the mountainous landscapes and hill tribe communities of Northern Thailand.
Railay Beach in Krabi offers breathtaking limestone cliffs and crystal-clear turquoise waters, accessible only by boat.
Phuket is Thailand's largest island, known for its vibrant nightlife, diverse beaches, and excellent opportunities for snorkeling and diving.
Local Customs & Etiquette
Always remove your shoes before entering a Thai home or a temple, as the feet are considered the lowest part of the body.
Avoid touching anyone on the head, as it is considered the most sacred part of the body in Thai culture.
Show deep respect for the Royal Family, as expressing any form of criticism or disrespect towards them is illegal and strictly penalized.
Dress modestly when visiting temples by ensuring your shoulders and knees are covered as a sign of respect.
Use both hands or your right hand when giving or receiving objects to show politeness, as using the left hand is often associated with uncleanliness.
Safety Tips
Stay hydrated and protected from the sun, especially during the humid afternoons, to avoid heatstroke.
Be cautious of common tourist scams, such as overly persistent taxi drivers or gem deals that seem too good to be true.
Only drink bottled or filtered water, as tap water in Thailand is generally not safe for consumption.
Keep a digital or physical copy of your passport and important documents in a separate, secure location.
Exercise caution when renting motorbikes, as traffic accidents are common; always wear a helmet and ensure you have a valid international driving permit.
AI-generated content. Visa requirements vary by nationality — verify with the official embassy before travel.
Hepatitis B
Source: CDC
Recommended for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 years old traveling to Thailand. Unvaccinated travelers 60 years and older may get vaccinated before traveling to Thailand.
View sourceHepatitis A
Source: CDC
Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Thailand. Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.
View sourceMeasles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)
Source: CDC
All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the MMR vaccine, according to CDC's measles vaccination recommendations for international travel.
View sourceYellow Fever
Source: CDC
Vaccination is not required when traveling directly from non-risk countries.
View sourceYellow Fever
Source: CDC
Yellow fever vaccination certificate is required if arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission.
View sourceCore Vaccines
Chikungunya vaccination
Source: CDC
There is elevated chikungunya risk in Thailand. Chikungunya vaccination may be considered for people traveling or moving to this location if they are planning to stay for an extended period of time (for example, 6 months or more).
Chikungunya - CDC Yellow Book
View sourceCOVID-19 vaccination
Source: CDC
All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines.
Please see Your COVID-19 Vaccination for more information.
View sourceMalaria Prophylaxis
Source: WHO
In areas with malaria risk
Malaria is present in certain regions of Thailand. Travelers should consult a healthcare provider for appropriate prophylaxis.
View sourceRabies vaccine (for certain travelers)
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers who may have direct contact with animals.
View sourceInsect bite prevention measures
Source: CDC
Essential due to risk of mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue fever.
View sourceTdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis)
Source: CDC
Recommended for all travelers, especially if not up to date with vaccinations.
View sourceMMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
Source: CDC
Recommended for all travelers as routine vaccination.
View sourceFor Most Travelers
COVID-19 vaccination
Source: CDC
Strongly recommended before travel for protection against severe disease.
View sourceItinerary-Specific
Hepatitis B
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers who may need medical treatment or exposure to blood.
View sourceRisk Area: Provinces that border Burma (Myanmar), Cambodia (except Buri Ram Province), and Malaysia
Chemoprophylaxis: Atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline, tafenoquine
Seasonality: null
View source