The clarification follows a viral video of a tourist being denied entry to Thailand stirring debate online. The traveller in the video said she was refused entry because she could not show sufficient funds.
“Immigration reviewed our travel history because we’ve spent a lot of time in Thailand previously. But the official reason we were given for being denied was lack of sufficient funds,” the foreign tourist said.
In response to concerns raised by foreigners in comments posted online, the Immigration Bureau yesterday posted its own video (see here) explaining the requirements for entering the country as a tourist.
The female officer narrating the video said, “In that case, the traveler couldn’t show the required B20,000 in cash as stipulated by law. Let me make it clear. It’s not random. There are clear rules. So, here’s exactly what you need to prepare to enter.”
The officer explained, “Thailand smoothly, especially under the new 60-day visa exemption policy.” She then explained a list of seven critical requirements:
Passport validity: Your passport must be valid for at least six months. This is a standard international requirement.
Clear purpose of visit: Just state it clearly and honestly. Unclear answers may raise suspicion of illegal work.
Proof of exit: For the 60-day visa exemption, you must show a confirmed ticket leaving Thailand within 60 days or within 90 days if you plan to extend your stay.
Proof of funds: Travellers entering on a tourist visa or the 60-day visa exemption must show at least B20,000 per person or B40,000 per family.
Confirmed accommodation: You must show where you’ll be staying. Hotel booking or a friend’s address is all fine as long as it’s verifiable.
TDAC – Thailand Digital Arrival Card: Starting in 2025, all arrivals must complete the TDAC every time they enter Thailand.
Frequent visa runs: If you enter and exit Thailand excessively without a clear reason, immigration may question your intent. This is to prevent people from using tourist entry to work illegally.
“To keep it simple, if you prepare properly, you’ll pass high immigration smoothly with no drama at all. Thailand warmly welcomes visitors who travel responsibly,” the Immigration video concluded.
However, Phuket Immigration Chief Pol Col Rasarin today (Dec 12) clearly confirmed to The Phuket News that the B20,000 does not have to be cash only.
Travellers may present accessible money through credit cards, debit cards, travel cards, banking apps or proof of income in any currency, Pol Col Rasarin said
“No, it’s not necessary to carry cash. The money just needs to be accessible,” she said
“We don’t check every traveller’s finances – only those considered high-risk, such as people with frequent border travel or travel alone and unclear plans,” Pol Col Rasarin added.
Pol Col Rasarin also clarified that cryptocurrency cannot be used as proof of funds for entering Thailand. “Money must be legal tender that can actually be used for travel expenses,” she said.