Thailand Visa Guide for UK BRP / eVisa Holders

Overview

Thailand is one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations, attracting over 30 million visitors annually with its tropical beaches, ornate temples, legendary street food, and warm hospitality. From the bustling streets of Bangkok and the ancient temples of Chiang Mai to the paradise islands of Phuket, Koh Samui, and Krabi, Thailand offers experiences for every budget and interest.

For UK BRP holders, Thailand’s visa policy is generous. Many nationalities enjoy visa-free entry for 30 to 60 days. Those who need a visa can apply through the convenient eVisa system online, or at the Royal Thai Embassy in London. Extensions are easily obtained within Thailand at local immigration offices.

Thailand Visa at a Glance

Detail	Information
Visa exemption	30-60 days (nationality dependent) — Free
Tourist visa (TR)	60 days + 30-day extension — £25-35
eVisa	Available at thaievisa.go.th — 1-5 days processing
Extension fee	1,900 THB (~£40) at immigration office
Embassy	Royal Thai Embassy, 29-30 Queen’s Gate, London SW7 5JB
Thai Pass	No longer required
Currency	Thai Baht (THB)

Visa Exemption Scheme

Thailand allows citizens of many countries to enter without a visa for short stays. UK (British) passport holders can stay up to 60 days visa-free. Most EU nationalities receive 30 days. At the airport, you will receive a stamp in your passport showing your permitted stay. You can extend this by 30 days at any Thai immigration office for 1,900 THB. The visa exemption is for tourism only — you cannot work.

Tourist Visa (TR) & eVisa

eVisa Application

Apply at thaievisa.go.th for a 60-day tourist visa. Upload your passport scan, photo, flight booking, hotel reservation, and bank statement. The fee is approximately £25-35 depending on processing speed. Standard processing takes 3-5 business days, express is 1-2 days. The eVisa is sent electronically and linked to your passport.

Embassy Application

If you prefer or need to apply in person, the Royal Thai Embassy is at 29-30 Queen’s Gate, London SW7 5JB. Submit your passport, application form, photo, flight details, accommodation proof, and bank statements. Processing takes 2-3 business days for collection. The tourist visa grants 60 days, extendable by 30 days in Thailand.

Extending Your Stay

Visit any Thai immigration office (available in every province) before your permitted stay expires. Bring your passport, one passport photo, 1,900 THB, and a completed TM.7 form (available at the office). The extension grants an additional 30 days. Major immigration offices are at Chaeng Wattana (Bangkok), Chiang Mai, Phuket, and Koh Samui.

Travel Tips

• Flights — London to Bangkok 11-12 hours direct (BA, Thai Airways, EVA Air). Budget options via Middle East hubs.
• Currency — Thai Baht (THB). 1 GBP = approximately 44 THB. Cards accepted in cities and tourist areas. Cash needed for markets and street food.
• Budget — Excellent value. Street food from 50-100 THB (~£1-2), restaurant meals 200-500 THB, hotels from 800-2,000 THB (~£18-45).
• Health — No mandatory vaccinations. Hepatitis A and Typhoid recommended. Drink bottled water. Mosquito repellent essential, especially in rural areas.
• Transport — Bangkok has BTS Skytrain and MRT metro. Domestic flights are cheap (from £20). Buses and trains connect all cities. Songthaews and tuk-tuks for local transport.
• Safety — Generally very safe. Petty theft in tourist areas. Be cautious with motorbike rentals (international driving permit needed). Travel insurance essential.
• Best time — November to February (cool, dry season). March to May is extremely hot. June to October is rainy season but fewer tourists and lower prices.

For more visa guides, return to our Visa Guides hub. For Gulf destinations, see our Dubai/UAE guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Last updated: March 2026. Always verify entry requirements with the relevant embassy or official government website before booking travel.