Thailand
Southeast Asia • THA
Last updated: May 8, 2026
Thailand is a vibrant Southeast Asian destination renowned for its stunning tropical beaches, opulent royal palaces, and ancient ruins. It offers a unique blend of bustling city life in Bangkok and serene landscapes, all complemented by world-famous cuisine and deeply rooted Buddhist traditions.
Visa Requirements
Many nationalities are granted visa-free entry for tourism for up to 60 days, while others may use the Visa on Arrival or the new online ETA system.
Typically Required Documents
- Passport valid for at least six months
- Proof of onward travel
- Evidence of sufficient funds
- Completed arrival card
Popular Attractions
The Grand Palace in Bangkok is a breathtaking complex of ornate buildings that serves as the spiritual heart of the Thai Kingdom.
Wat Arun, also known as the Temple of Dawn, is an iconic riverside landmark famous for its colorful porcelain-encrusted spires.
Chiang Mai's Old City is home to hundreds of historic temples and is a cultural hub surrounded by lush northern mountains.
Railay Beach in Krabi offers dramatic limestone cliffs, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and a relaxed atmosphere perfect for rock climbing and swimming.
Ayutthaya Historical Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, features the atmospheric ruins of the former capital of the Kingdom of Siam.
Local Customs & Etiquette
Always remove your shoes before entering temples, private homes, and some shops to show respect.
The head is considered the most sacred part of the body, so never touch a Thai person's head, including children.
Treat images and statues of Buddha with the utmost respect, as they are sacred religious symbols.
Avoid public displays of anger or shouting, as maintaining a calm demeanor, known as 'jai yen', is highly valued.
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites by ensuring your shoulders and knees are covered.
Safety Tips
Only use licensed metered taxis or ride-sharing apps like Grab to ensure transparent pricing.
Be wary of common tourist scams involving gem shops or tuk-tuk drivers who claim popular sites are closed.
Drink only bottled or filtered water rather than tap water to avoid gastrointestinal issues.
Keep your passport and valuables secure in a hotel safe, carrying only a copy or minimal cash while exploring.
Use caution when renting motorbikes, as traffic accidents are common and require 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
MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
Source: CDC
Recommended for all travelers as routine vaccination.
View sourceTdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis)
Source: CDC
Recommended for all travelers, especially if not up to date with vaccinations.
View sourceInsect bite prevention measures
Source: CDC
Essential due to risk of mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue fever.
View sourceRabies vaccine (for certain travelers)
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers who may have direct contact with animals.
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 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 sourceChikungunya 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 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