Plan your Thailand adventure as an Indonesian tourist with our guide! Learn about visa exemptions, e-visa applications, border crossings, eco-friendly Thailand Tours, and top providers for a seamless experience with Thailand Travel. Start your journey today!
Chiang Rai Doi Tung Golden Stupas, Thailand (Source: Internet)Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, personally guiding and organizing tours for over 100,000 travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys, and official sources like tourismthailand.org, thaiembassy.org, travel.state.gov, culturetrip.com, and 12go.asia. Information based on the latest data; verify before travel. Reflects Thailand’s updated travel regulations.
Indonesian tourists, please note: As ASEAN members, Indonesians enjoy visa-free entry to Thailand for up to 30 days for tourism purposes. For longer stays or specific purposes (e.g., work, study), e-visas or embassy visas are required. This guide details visa requirements, border crossing procedures, and travel tips for Indonesians entering Thailand by land, air, or sea, ensuring a seamless journey.
Thailand, known as the Land of Smiles, captivates Indonesian tourists with its cultural landmarks like Bangkok’s Grand Palace, Chiang Mai’s ancient temples, and Phuket’s pristine beaches tourismthailand.org. Understanding visa requirements for border crossings ensures smooth entry for Indonesians, whether joining guided Thailand Tours or traveling independently. Indonesians benefit from a 30-day visa exemption for tourism, with e-visas or embassy visas available for extended stays, facilitating entry through Thailand’s 26 international airports, 30 land borders, and 19 seaports thaiembassy.org. This guide provides practical visa insights, border crossing tips, cultural etiquette, and eco-friendly Thailand Travel options for Indonesian travelers.
Following Thailand’s updated travel regulations, the country is accessible via multiple border checkpoints, including popular land borders like Aranyaprathet (near Cambodia’s Poipet) and Sadao (near Malaysia’s Bukit Kayu Hitam). This guide blends visa requirements, border crossing procedures, and sustainable Thailand Travel ideas for a worry-free adventure.
Indonesian tourists enjoy visa-free entry for up to 30 days for tourism, requiring a passport valid for at least 6 months with two blank pages. For longer stays, e-visas cost $40–$80 (1,400–2,800 THB) or embassy visas ($40–$200). Cultural site entries like the Grand Palace cost $15 (500 THB); guided tours range from $15–$80 (500–2,800 THB). Local purchases at markets like Chatuchak range from $0.30–$15 (10–500 THB). Verify visa requirements and border procedures via thaiembassy.org or tourismthailand.org.
Visa Exemption:
Purpose: Tourism, short-term business, or leisure.
Eligibility: Indonesian citizens, as ASEAN members thaiembassy.org.
Duration: Up to 30 days per entry; multiple entries allowed with re-entry within validity period tourismthailand.org.
Cost: No cost thaiembassy.org.
Requirements: Passport valid for at least 6 months from entry date with two blank pages; proof of onward travel (e.g., return flight or bus ticket) and proof of funds (10,000 THB/person or 20,000 THB/family, approximately $300–$600) may be requested but rarely enforced tourismthailand.org.
Extension: Extendable once for 30 days at an immigration office (e.g., Bangkok’s Immigration Office) for $55 (1,900 THB) thaiembassy.org.
Entry/Exit Points: Valid at 26 airports (e.g., Suvarnabhumi, Phuket, Chiang Mai), 30 land borders (e.g., Aranyaprathet, Sadao, Chiang Khong), and 19 seaports (e.g., Laem Chabang, Phuket) tourismthailand.org.
E-Visa (For Longer Stays or Specific Purposes):
Purpose: Tourism, business, or other purposes for stays exceeding 30 days.
Eligibility: Indonesians needing stays up to 60 days or multiple entries thaiembassy.org.
Duration: Up to 60 days (single or multiple entry); extendable for 30 days thaiembassy.org.
Cost: $40 (1,400 THB) for single entry; $80 (2,800 THB) for multiple entry; non-refundable thaiembassy.org.
Application Process:
Visit thaievisa.go.th, select English, and click “Apply for E-Visa.”
Create an account with an email and password; verify via email link.
Select “Indonesia” as nationality, choose visa type (e.g., Tourist Visa TR), and enter travel details (entry date, port of entry like Suvarnabhumi or Aranyaprathet, temporary address in Thailand like a hotel).
Upload a digital passport photo (4x6 cm, white background, no glasses, straight view) and a scan of the passport data page in .jpg or .pdf format, max 2MB.
Provide supporting documents: proof of accommodation (e.g., hotel booking), travel itinerary (e.g., flight or bus ticket), proof of funds (bank statement showing $600 or 20,000 THB), and travel insurance (recommended, $30 or 1,000 THB).
Pay the fee ($40 or $80) via credit/debit card; note the application code.
Check status at thaievisa.go.th using application code and passport number; download and print the e-visa PDF.
Present printed e-visa and passport at the border checkpoint; ensure details match exactly to avoid entry issues thaiembassy.org.
Processing Time: 5–15 working days; expedited processing (2–3 days) available through agencies for additional fees ($15–$50 or 500–1,750 THB) thaiembassy.org.
Extension: Extendable once for 30 days at an immigration office for $55 (1,900 THB) thaiembassy.org.
Entry/Exit Points: Valid at 26 airports, 30 land borders, and 19 seaports thaiembassy.org.
Embassy/Consulate Visa:
Purpose: Tourism, business, work, or study for specific needs or longer stays.
Eligibility: Indonesians needing visas for non-tourist purposes or preferring traditional applications thaiembassy.org.
Duration: Typically 60 days (single or multiple entry); longer for work/study visas thaiembassy.org.
Cost: $40–$200 (1,400–7,000 THB), depending on visa type and processing time thaiembassy.org.
Requirements: Passport, application form, two passport photos (4x6 cm), proof of accommodation, travel itinerary, proof of funds, and fees; apply in person or by mail at a Thai embassy (e.g., in Jakarta: +62 21 29328190) thaiembassy.org.
Extension: Extendable for 30–90 days with a sponsor; fees vary ($55–$200 or 1,900–7,000 THB) thaiembassy.org.
Key Restrictions:
Travelers must not fall under Thailand’s suspension categories (e.g., security risks) as per immigration laws thaiembassy.org.
Overstay penalties: 500 THB/day ($15/day), maximum 20,000 THB ($600); potential detention or deportation travel.state.gov.
Immigration may request proof of onward travel or funds at borders; carry digital or printed copies tourismthailand.org.
Airports (26): Major entry points include Suvarnabhumi (Bangkok), Phuket, and Chiang Mai; immigration open 24/7; most Indonesians enter by air tourismthailand.org.
Land Borders (30): Popular checkpoints include Aranyaprathet (near Cambodia’s Poipet), Sadao (near Malaysia’s Bukit Kayu Hitam), and Chiang Khong (near Laos’ Huay Xai). Open 7:00 AM–8:00 PM (some 24/7); expect queues during peak seasons 12go.asia.
Seaports (19): Key ports include Laem Chabang (Pattaya) and Phuket; used for cruise travelers tourismthailand.org.
Requirements at Borders: Present a valid passport; for visa exemptions, carry proof of onward travel (e.g., return flight or bus ticket); for e-visas, present printed e-visa; ensure details match passport to avoid delays thaiembassy.org.
Cultural etiquette ensures a smooth border crossing and travel experience during Thailand Tours. Here’s your guide, based on current norms:
Greetings: Offer a “sawasdee” (hello) with a slight bow or wai (palms pressed together) to immigration officers or locals; use both hands for transactions at border checkpoints or markets culturetrip.com.
Dress: Wear modest clothing covering shoulders and knees, especially for temple visits after crossing (e.g., Grand Palace in Bangkok); carry a lightweight scarf ($3 or 100 THB) tourismthailand.org.
Behaviour: Maintain a calm demeanor at border checkpoints; avoid loud behavior or disputes; ask permission before photographing monks or locals; carry passport or e-visa securely. Avoid public criticism of the Thai monarchy (lèse-majesté laws, up to 15 years imprisonment). A guest from Indonesia shared: “Respecting Thai customs eased our border crossing and trip.” culturetrip.com
Customs: Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated ($0.30–$1 or 10–30 THB); avoid littering at cultural sites like Chiang Mai’s temples; respect Buddhist customs at borders or sites tourismthailand.org.
Tip: Say “khob khun” (thank you) to officers or guides; use eco-friendly practices like reusable water bottles ($3 or 100 THB) to support sustainable Thailand Travel; keep passport handy for checks. Tony Bùi notes: “In 20 years guiding, I’ve seen respectful Indonesian travelers thrive at Thailand’s borders and cultural sites.”
General Tips:
Language: Carry a phrase card ($2 or 60 THB) for Thai basics like “khob khun”; English is widely spoken at major borders and tourist areas culturetrip.com.
Respect: Follow border rules (no photography in immigration areas); respect local vendors with fair purchases in markets like Chatuchak.
Navigation: Use offline maps (Maps.me) for border areas like Aranyaprathet or cities like Bangkok; carry a printed e-visa or passport photocopy travel.state.gov.
Eco-Tip: Opt for songthaews ($0.30–$1 or 10–30 THB) or bicycles ($3–$5 or 100–150 THB/day) after crossing to reduce emissions tourismthailand.org.
Below is a curated list of tour options to enhance your visa-prepared journey after crossing into Thailand, based on the latest data from tourismthailand.org, thaiembassy.org, travel.state.gov, and 12go.asia. Confirm schedules and prices before booking.
Details: Explore Bangkok’s Grand Palace, Chiang Mai’s Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, or Phuket’s beaches independently after crossing at Suvarnabhumi, Aranyaprathet, or Sadao; suitable for travelers with visa exemptions or e-visas; low to moderate difficulty tourismthailand.org.
Visa Tips: Use 30-day visa exemption for Indonesians; carry passport and proof of onward travel; for stays over 30 days, apply for e-visa ($40–$80); keep a printed e-visa or passport photocopy thaiembassy.org.
Schedule: Daily; Grand Palace open 8:30 AM–3:30 PM ($15 or 500 THB); Wat Phra That Doi Suthep open 6:00 AM–6:00 PM ($1 or 30 THB); Phuket beaches accessible anytime.
Cost: Entry: free (markets like Chatuchak); Grand Palace: $15 (500 THB); Wat Phra That Doi Suthep: $1 (30 THB); transport (songthaew: $0.30–$1 or 10–30 THB; bicycle: $3–$5 or 100–150 THB/day); local purchases: $0.30–$15 (10–500 THB).
Location: Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Thailand.
Eco-Friendly Note: Use bicycles or songthaews to reduce emissions; avoid littering at cultural sites.
Tip: Confirm exemption eligibility or apply for e-visas early; check thaievisa.go.th; a guest from Indonesia noted: “Self-guided exploration was seamless after crossing at Suvarnabhumi.”
Details: 1-day group tour visiting Bangkok’s Grand Palace and Wat Arun after crossing at Suvarnabhumi; includes English-speaking guide, transport from Bangkok hotels, lunch, and entry fees; low difficulty.
Visa Tips: Ensure valid exemption or e-visa; carry a printed e-visa or passport photocopy; guides assist with cultural etiquette thaiembassy.org.
Schedule: Daily; departs 7:30 AM from Bangkok hotels; returns by 4:00 PM.
Cost: $25–$40/person (850–1,400 THB, includes transport and entry).
Pick-up/Drop-off: Hotels in Bangkok.
Eco-Friendly Note: Group transport with fuel-efficient vehicles minimizes impact; supports local communities.
Tip: Book via legendtravelgroup.com; a guest from Indonesia noted: “Legend’s tour ensured visa compliance and cultural immersion after Suvarnabhumi.”
Details: 1-day guided tour visiting Chiang Mai’s Wat Phra That Doi Suthep and a cycling tour after crossing at Chiang Khong; includes English-speaking guide, transport from Chiang Mai, lunch, and entry fees; low to moderate difficulty.
Visa Tips: Use 30-day visa exemption or multiple-entry e-visa for multi-city travel; carry a printed e-visa or passport photocopy; confirm eligibility thaiembassy.org.
Schedule: Daily; departs 6:30 AM from Chiang Mai hotels; returns by 4:00 PM.
Cost: $30–$50/person (1,000–1,750 THB, includes entry).
Pick-up/Drop-off: Hotels in Chiang Mai.
Eco-Friendly Note: Small groups and cycling reduce environmental impact; supports local communities.
Tip: Book via localvietnam.com (Thailand partner sites); a guest from Indonesia noted: “The combo tour was visa-ready and enriching after crossing at Chiang Khong.”
Details: 2–3 day tour combining Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket after crossing at Suvarnabhumi, Aranyaprathet, or Sadao; includes English-speaking guide, transport, accommodation, meals, and entry fees; low to moderate difficulty.
Visa Tips: Use a multiple-entry e-visa for multi-city travel; carry a printed e-visa or passport photocopy; confirm visa status thaiembassy.org.
Schedule: Daily; departs from Bangkok hotels; returns after 2–3 days.
Cost: $80–$200/person (2,800–7,000 THB, includes entries).
Pick-up/Drop-off: Hotels or custom locations in Bangkok.
Eco-Friendly Note: Uses eco-lodges and fuel-efficient transport; supports local communities.
Tip: Book Thailand Tours via legendtravelgroup.com or WhatsApp (+84 825862222); a guest from Indonesia noted: “The multi-day tour was a visa-smart cultural journey.”
Self-Guided Exploration: Flexible and cost-effective, ideal for Indonesians with visa exemptions or e-visas.
Group Cultural Tours: Affordable and guided, perfect for visa-compliant cultural insights.
Combo Cultural and Adventure Tours: Blend cultural visits with eco-friendly activities for a comprehensive journey.
Multi-Day Cultural and Adventure Tours: Offer in-depth exploration with visa-smart itineraries.
Eco-Friendly Note: Group and multi-day tours use fuel-efficient transport or bicycles, supporting Thailand’s green tourism goals.
Key visa-prepared travel opportunities include:
Songkran (Thai New Year): Typically April, vibrant with water festivals and temple ceremonies; warm (25–35°C); check dates at tourismthailand.org.
Loy Krathong: Typically November, festive with floating lanterns; cool (20–30°C); check dates at tourismthailand.org.
Cultural Site Visits: Cool season (November–February) for comfortable weather; February for optimal conditions tourismthailand.org.
Cool season (November–February, 20–30°C) is ideal for border crossings and cultural visits. Hot season (March–May, 25–35°C) suits early morning outings. Wet season (June–October, 24–32°C) is best for budget travelers and indoor experiences; expect rain at land borders like Aranyaprathet. Morning crossings (7:00 AM–11:00 AM) avoid crowds and heat. Verify forecasts via accuweather.com.
Verify Visa Needs: Indonesians enjoy 30-day visa-free entry for tourism; apply for e-visas at thaievisa.go.th for longer stays; use embassy visas for specific needs; carry proof of onward travel for exemptions thaiembassy.org.
Border Crossing Tips: Choose major borders like Suvarnabhumi or Aranyaprathet for smoother immigration; cross early (7:00 AM) to avoid queues; carry passport and proof of onward travel; for e-visas, present printed copy; expect occasional fund checks tourismthailand.org.
Documentation: Ensure passport validity (6+ months); carry a digital or printed e-visa copy or passport photocopy; provide proof of onward travel (e.g., return flight or bus ticket) travel.state.gov.
Eco-Tip: Use digital e-visa copies to reduce paper waste; opt for songthaews or bicycles after crossing for sustainable travel.
Tip: Apply for e-visas 7–15 days early; double-check details to match passport; carry small THB notes for local purchases; check visa status at thaievisa.go.th. For embassy visas, contact the Thai Embassy in Jakarta (+62 21 29328190).
Pack for a comfortable, sustainable visit:
Documents: Passport (valid 6+ months), printed e-visa ($40–$80 or 1,400–2,800 THB if required), passport photocopy, proof of onward travel (e.g., return flight or bus ticket), proof of funds (bank statement, optional), wallet ($3 or 100 THB), tour bookings.
Clothing: Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees for temple visits; lightweight scarf ($3 or 100 THB); quick-dry clothing and raincoat ($3 or 100 THB) for wet season; lightweight clothing like cotton or linen and light jacket ($5 or 150 THB) for cool season; waterproof shoes ($5 or 150 THB); hat ($3 or 100 THB).
Essentials: Reusable water bottle ($3 or 100 THB); snacks ($0.30–$1 or 10–30 THB, e.g., khao soi); small backpack ($3 or 100 THB); sunscreen ($3 or 100 THB); insect repellent ($3 or 100 THB).
Tech: Phone with translation apps (e.g., Google Translate); charger ($5–$8 or 150–250 THB); local SIM ($3–$5 or 100–150 THB); waterproof camera ($8 or 250 THB) for photos.
Eco Items: Reusable tote ($3 or 100 THB) for purchases; phrase card ($2 or 60 THB) with Thai basics.
Extras: Small THB notes for donations or purchases; small first aid kit ($3 or 100 THB); umbrella ($3 or 100 THB) for wet season; money belt ($3 or 100 THB) for valuables. Tip: Pack light (1 small bag, max 5 kg); reusable items support sustainability.
Visa and Travel Costs
Visa Exemption Costs: No cost for 30-day entry; extension: $55 (1,900 THB) thaiembassy.org.
E-Visa Costs: Single entry: $40 (1,400 THB); multiple entry: $80 (2,800 THB); expedited processing: $15–$50 (500–1,750 THB) thaiembassy.org.
Embassy Visa Costs: $40–$200 (1,400–7,000 THB), depending on visa type and processing time thaiembassy.org.
Self-Guided Exploration: Entry: free (markets like Chatuchak); Grand Palace: $15 (500 THB); Wat Phra That Doi Suthep: $1 (30 THB); transport (songthaew: $0.30–$1 or 10–30 THB; bicycle: $3–$5 or 100–150 THB/day).
Group Cultural Tours: $25–$40 (850–1,400 THB, includes transport and entry).
Combo Cultural and Adventure Tours: $30–$50 (1,000–1,750 THB, includes entry).
Multi-Day Cultural and Adventure Tours: $80–$200 (2,800–7,000 THB, includes entries). Safety-Related Costs
Money Belt: $3 (100 THB).
Local SIM for Emergency Calls: $3–$5 (100–150 THB).
Travel Insurance (Recommended): $15–$30 (500–1,000 THB). Other Costs
Local Snacks (e.g., khao soi, mango sticky rice): $0.30–$1 (10–30 THB).
Souvenirs (e.g., silk, crafts): $0.30–$15 (10–500 THB).
Donations: $0.30–$1 (10–30 THB). Total Daily Cost (Per Person)
Budget: $15–$40 (self-guided, snacks, transport, entry).
Mid-range: $40–$70 (group tour, purchases).
Luxury: $70–$120 (private tour, premium souvenirs). Tip: Budget $15–$120 for tours, visa costs (if applicable), and transport; $0.30–$15 for purchases or add-ons; use visa exemptions to save on costs.
Visa Tips: Use 30-day visa exemption for Indonesians; apply for e-visas at thaievisa.go.th for longer stays; use embassy visas for specific needs; carry proof of onward travel and funds (optional) thaiembassy.org.
Border Crossing Tips: Choose major borders like Suvarnabhumi or Aranyaprathet for smoother immigration; cross early (7:00 AM) to avoid queues; carry passport and proof of onward travel; for e-visas, present printed copy tourismthailand.org.
Etiquette: Use “sawasdee”; dress modestly for temples; respect border and local customs; avoid littering at cultural sites.
Access: Choose self-guided exploration for flexibility, group tours for visa-compliant insights, or multi-day tours for immersion.
Schedules: Borders open 7:00 AM–8:00 PM (some 24/7); cultural sites open 8:00 AM–5:00 PM; peak crowds in cool season (November–February); book early for festivals.
Sustainability: Use songthaews or bicycles; carry reusable items; support local vendors with fair purchases.
Navigation: Use offline maps (Maps.me) for border areas or cities like Bangkok.
Weather: Cool season (Nov–Feb, 20–30°C) ideal; hot season (Mar–May, 25–35°C) suits early mornings; wet season (Jun–Oct, 24–32°C) requires rain gear; check forecasts via accuweather.com.
Safety Note: Secure valuables with a money belt ($3 or 100 THB); beware of pickpocketing in markets or nightlife areas; carry emergency numbers (Police: 191, Tourist Police: 1155, Indonesian Embassy in Bangkok: +66 2 252 3135).
Do Indonesians need a visa for Thailand? No, Indonesians enjoy visa-free entry for up to 30 days for tourism; e-visas or embassy visas required for longer stays thaiembassy.org.
Which borders accept visa exemptions or e-visas? All 26 airports, 30 land borders (e.g., Aranyaprathet, Sadao), and 19 seaports accept exemptions and e-visas tourismthailand.org.
How much does a Thailand visa cost for Indonesians? Visa exemption: no cost; e-visa: $40 (single entry) or $80 (multiple entry); embassy visa: $40–$200 thaiembassy.org.
Can visas be extended? Exemptions and e-visas extendable once for 30 days ($55); embassy visas may allow longer extensions thaiembassy.org.
What are the penalties for overstaying? Fines of 500 THB/day ($15/day), maximum 20,000 THB ($600); potential detention or deportation travel.state.gov.
What documents are needed at the border? Passport (valid 6+ months), proof of onward travel (recommended), printed e-visa (if applicable), and proof of funds (optional) tourismthailand.org.
Enhance your visa-prepared Thailand journey with eco-conscious tours from Legend Travel Group:
Thailand Cultural Eco-Tour ($25–$40/person, 1 day): Guided temple and market tour with sustainable practices.
Thailand Cultural and Adventure Trail ($80–$150/person, 2 days): Explore cultural sites and eco-friendly activities.
Thailand Explorer ($150–$250/person, 3 days): Multi-site adventure with eco-lodges and community-focused activities. Prices include guides, transport, and entry fees; group discounts available. Explore options at legendtravelgroup.com or contact sales@legendtravelgroup.com / WhatsApp (+84825862222) for your Thailand Travel plans.
Mastering Thailand Visa for Indonesian Tourists with cultural etiquette—modest attire, polite greetings like “sawasdee,” and visa-smart planning—unlocks a vibrant, eco-friendly journey through the Land of Smiles. With tour costs from $15–$200, sustainable Thailand Tours, and attractions like the Grand Palace and Phuket’s beaches, this trip offers adventure and sustainability for Indonesian travelers. Whether choosing a self-guided or guided experience with Thailand Travel, leverage visa exemptions or apply for e-visas early via thaievisa.go.th, and respect local customs for the best experience. Safe travels!
Sources:
tourismthailand.org
thaiembassy.org
travel.state.gov
culturetrip.com
12go.asia
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