Plan your Thailand adventure with our guide for Indonesians! 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!
Lampang Buddhist Pagoda, 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 thaiembassy.org, mfa.go.th, tourismthailand.org, travel.state.gov, and culturetrip.com. Information based on the latest data; verify before travel. Reflects Thailand’s updated travel regulations.
Indonesian travelers, please note: As ASEAN members, Indonesians are eligible for a 60-day visa exemption for tourism purposes, but Visa on Arrival (VOA) or e-visas are available for longer stays or specific purposes. This guide details visa requirements, border crossing procedures, and travel tips for Indonesians entering Thailand by land, air, or sea.
Thailand, a vibrant Southeast Asian destination, is renowned for its cultural landmarks like Bangkok’s Grand Palace, Chiang Mai’s ancient temples, and Phuket’s pristine beaches tourismthailand.org. Understanding visa requirements for Indonesians ensures seamless entry, whether joining guided Thailand Tours or traveling independently. Indonesians benefit from a 60-day visa exemption for tourism, while e-visas or VOA are options for extended stays or other purposes, facilitating entry through Thailand’s 24 land borders, 9 international airports, and 11 seaports mfa.go.th. 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 major border checkpoints like Nong Khai (Laos), Aranyaprathet (Cambodia), and Don Mueang Airport (Bangkok). This guide blends visa requirements, border crossing procedures, and sustainable Thailand Travel ideas for a worry-free adventure.
Indonesians are eligible for a 60-day visa exemption for tourism (no cost), while e-visas ($40 or 1,400 THB) or VOA ($60 or 2,000 THB) are available for longer stays or specific purposes. Passports must be valid for at least 6 months with two blank pages. Cultural site entries like the Grand Palace cost $15 (500 THB); guided tours range from $15–$80 (500–2,800 THB). Temporary stay registration is required within 24 hours, typically handled by hotels or hosts. Verify visa requirements and border procedures via thaiembassy.org or mfa.go.th.
Standard Visa Exemption:
Purpose: Tourism, short-term business, or family visits.
Eligibility: Indonesian citizens, as part of ASEAN, qualify for visa-free entry mfa.go.th.
Duration: Up to 60 days per entry, extendable once for 30 days at Thai Immigration Offices thaiembassy.org.
Cost: No cost mfa.go.th.
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 ($600 or 20,000 THB) recommended but rarely checked tourismthailand.org.
Extension: Extendable for 30 days ($55 or 1,900 THB) at Thai Immigration Offices (e.g., Bangkok, Chiang Mai) thaiembassy.org.
Entry/Exit Points: Valid at 9 airports (e.g., Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang), 24 land borders (e.g., Nong Khai, Aranyaprathet), and 11 seaports (e.g., Phuket, Krabi) mfa.go.th.
Visa on Arrival (VOA):
Purpose: Tourism for stays exceeding 60 days or for travelers not planning extensions.
Eligibility: Indonesians, though rarely needed due to visa exemption mfa.go.th.
Duration: 15 days, non-extendable thaiembassy.org.
Cost: $60 (2,000 THB), payable in THB at entry points mfa.go.th.
Requirements: Passport valid for 6 months with two blank pages; one passport photo (4x6 cm); proof of onward travel within 15 days; proof of funds ($300 or 10,000 THB); application form completed at border tourismthailand.org.
Entry/Exit Points: Available at major airports (e.g., Suvarnabhumi, Phuket) and select land borders (e.g., Aranyaprathet, Nong Khai) mfa.go.th.
E-Visa (For Longer Stays or Specific Purposes):
Purpose: Tourism, business, or other purposes for stays up to 60 days or for travelers preferring online applications.
Eligibility: Indonesians, though typically unnecessary due to visa exemption thaiembassy.org.
Duration: Up to 60 days (single entry), extendable for 30 days mfa.go.th.
Cost: $40 (1,400 THB), non-refundable thaiembassy.org.
Application Process:
Visit thaievisa.go.th, select English, and register an account thaiembassy.org.
Complete the online form with personal details (full name, date of birth, nationality), passport details (number, issue/expiry date), travel details (entry/exit dates, checkpoints like Nong Khai or Suvarnabhumi), and accommodation details (e.g., hotel address) mfa.go.th.
Upload a digital passport photo (4x6 cm, white background, no glasses) and passport data page in .jpg format, max 2MB thaiembassy.org.
Pay the fee ($40) via credit/debit card; note the application ID mfa.go.th.
Check status at thaievisa.go.th using application ID and passport number; download and print the e-visa PDF thaiembassy.org.
Present printed e-visa and passport at the border checkpoint; ensure details match exactly to avoid entry issues tourismthailand.org.
Processing Time: 5–15 working days; expedited processing (2–3 days) available through agencies for additional fees ($10–$30 or 350–1,050 THB) thaiembassy.org.
Extension: Extendable for 30 days ($55 or 1,900 THB) at Thai Immigration Offices mfa.go.th.
Entry/Exit Points: Valid at 9 airports, 24 land borders, and 11 seaports mfa.go.th.
Embassy/Consulate Visa:
Purpose: Tourism, business, work, or study for specific needs or longer stays.
Eligibility: Indonesians requiring visas for non-tourism purposes or preferring traditional applications thaiembassy.org.
Duration: Typically 60 days (single or multiple entry); longer for work/study visas mfa.go.th.
Cost: $40–$80 (1,400–2,800 THB), depending on visa type and processing time thaiembassy.org.
Requirements: Passport, application form, two passport photos (4x6 cm), proof of travel (e.g., itinerary, hotel booking), proof of funds ($600 or 20,000 THB), and fees; apply in person or by mail at a Thai embassy (e.g., Jakarta: +62 21 29328190) thaiembassy.org.
Extension: Extendable for 30–90 days with a sponsor; fees vary ($55–$150 or 1,900–5,250 THB) mfa.go.th.
Key Restrictions:
Travelers must not fall under suspension categories (e.g., security risks) as per Thailand’s immigration laws mfa.go.th.
Temporary stay registration is mandatory within 24 hours, typically handled by hotels or hosts tourismthailand.org.
Overstay penalties: 500 THB/day ($15/day), max 20,000 THB ($600); potential detention or deportation thaiembassy.org.
Land Borders (24): Popular checkpoints include Aranyaprathet (Cambodia, near Poipet), Nong Khai (Laos, near Vientiane), and Padang Besar (Malaysia, near Sadao). Open 6:00 AM–10:00 PM; expect queues during peak seasons mfa.go.th.
Airports (9): Major entry points include Suvarnabhumi (Bangkok), Don Mueang (Bangkok), and Phuket; immigration open 24/7 tourismthailand.org.
Seaports (11): Key ports include Phuket, Krabi, and Koh Samui; used for cruise travelers mfa.go.th.
Requirements at Borders: Present a valid passport and printed e-visa or VOA form (if applicable); visa-exempt travelers need proof of onward travel and funds (recommended); 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 locals or rituals; carry passport or e-visa securely to verify status. 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 Wat Arun or Chiang Mai temples; complete stay registration within 24 hours (handled by hotels) mfa.go.th.
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 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.
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 bicycles ($3–$5 or 100–175 THB/day) or songthaews ($0.30–$1 or 10–30 THB) 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 thaiembassy.org, mfa.go.th, tourismthailand.org, and travel.state.gov. Confirm schedules and prices before booking.
Details: Explore Bangkok’s Grand Palace, Chiang Mai’s Doi Suthep, or Phuket’s Big Buddha independently after crossing at Aranyaprathet, Nong Khai, or Suvarnabhumi; suitable for travelers with visa exemptions or e-visas; low to moderate difficulty tourismthailand.org.
Visa Tips: Use 60-day visa exemption or e-visa ($40); carry a printed e-visa or passport photocopy; register temporary stay at hotels mfa.go.th.
Schedule: Daily; Grand Palace open 8:30 AM–3:30 PM ($15 or 500 THB); Doi Suthep open 6:00 AM–6:00 PM (donations $0.30–$1 or 10–30 THB); Phuket’s Big Buddha open 6:00 AM–7:00 PM (free).
Cost: Entry: free (some temples); Grand Palace: $15 (500 THB); transport (bicycle: $3–$5 or 100–175 THB/day; songthaew: $0.30–$1 or 10–30 THB); local purchases: $0.30–$15 (10–500 THB).
Location: Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Thailand.
Eco-Friendly Note: Use bicycles or walk 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 Aranyaprathet.”
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 stay registration mfa.go.th.
Schedule: Daily; departs 8:00 AM from Bangkok hotels; returns by 4:00 PM.
Cost: $25–$40/person (875–1,400 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 Doi Suthep and a cycling tour after crossing at Nong Khai; includes English-speaking guide, transport from Chiang Mai, lunch, and entry fees; low to moderate difficulty.
Visa Tips: Use 60-day exemption or e-visa for multi-city travel; carry a printed e-visa or passport photocopy; confirm eligibility thaiembassy.org.
Schedule: Daily; departs 7:00 AM from Chiang Mai hotels; returns by 4:00 PM.
Cost: $30–$50/person (1,050–1,750 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.”
Details: 2–3 day tour combining Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket after crossing at Suvarnabhumi, Nong Khai, or Phuket; includes English-speaking guide, transport, accommodation, meals, and entry fees; low to moderate difficulty.
Visa Tips: Use a 60-day exemption or e-visa for multi-city travel; carry a printed e-visa or passport photocopy; confirm temporary stay registration mfa.go.th.
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 using 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; mild (24–32°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, 24–32°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 (6:00 AM–10:00 AM) avoid crowds and heat. Verify forecasts via accuweather.com.
Verify Visa Needs: Indonesians typically use the 60-day visa exemption; apply for e-visas at thaievisa.go.th for longer stays; use VOA or embassy visas for specific needs thaiembassy.org.
Border Crossing Tips: Choose major borders like Aranyaprathet or Nong Khai for smoother immigration; cross early (6:00 AM) to avoid crowds; carry printed e-visa or passport photocopy; have proof of onward travel and funds for exemptions mfa.go.th.
Documentation: Ensure passport validity (6+ months); carry a digital or printed e-visa copy or passport photocopy; provide proof of onward travel for VOA or exemptions tourismthailand.org.
Stay Registration: Confirm hotels or hosts register your stay with local police within 24 hours; carry proof of registration mfa.go.th.
Eco-Tip: Use digital e-visa copies to reduce paper waste; opt for bicycles or songthaews 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 or 1,400 THB if required) or VOA form, passport photocopy, proof of onward travel (e.g., return flight or bus ticket), proof of funds ($600 or 20,000 THB), 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 and light jacket ($5 or 175 THB) for cool season; waterproof shoes ($5 or 175 THB); hat ($3 or 100 THB).
Essentials: Reusable water bottle ($3 or 100 THB); snacks ($0.30–$1 or 10–30 THB, e.g., som tam); 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 175–280 THB); local SIM ($3–$5 or 100–175 THB); waterproof camera ($9 or 300 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 60-day exemption; extension: $55 (1,900 THB) thaiembassy.org.
VOA Costs: $60 (2,000 THB) mfa.go.th.
E-Visa Costs: $40 (1,400 THB); expedited processing: $10–$30 (350–1,050 THB) thaiembassy.org.
Embassy Visa Costs: $40–$80 (1,400–2,800 THB), depending on visa type thaiembassy.org.
Self-Guided Exploration: Entry: free (some temples); Grand Palace: $15 (500 THB); transport (bicycle: $3–$5 or 100–175 THB/day; songthaew: $0.30–$1 or 10–30 THB).
Group Cultural Tours: $25–$40 (875–1,400 THB, includes transport and entry).
Combo Cultural and Adventure Tours: $30–$50 (1,050–1,750 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 (100–175 THB).
Travel Insurance (Recommended): $10–$30 (350–1,050 THB). Other Costs
Local Snacks (e.g., pad thai, som tam): $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: Indonesians typically use the 60-day visa exemption; apply for e-visas at thaievisa.go.th for longer stays; use VOA or embassy visas for specific needs; double-check details to match passport thaiembassy.org.
Border Crossing Tips: Choose major borders like Aranyaprathet or Suvarnabhumi for smoother immigration; cross early (6:00 AM) to avoid crowds; carry printed e-visa or passport photocopy; have proof of onward travel and funds for exemptions mfa.go.th.
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 6:00 AM–10:00 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 bicycles or songthaews; 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, 24–32°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 are eligible for a 60-day visa exemption for tourism; e-visas or VOA available for longer stays mfa.go.th.
Which borders accept visa exemptions or e-visas? All 9 airports, 24 land borders (e.g., Aranyaprathet, Nong Khai), and 11 seaports accept exemptions and e-visas thaiembassy.org.
How much does a Thailand visa cost for Indonesians? Exemption: no cost; VOA: $60 (2,000 THB); e-visa: $40 (1,400 THB); embassy visa: $40–$80 (1,400–2,800 THB) thaiembassy.org.
Can visas be extended? Exemptions and e-visas extendable for 30 days ($55 or 1,900 THB); embassy visas may be extendable with a sponsor mfa.go.th.
What are the penalties for overstaying? Fines of 500 THB/day ($15/day), max 20,000 THB ($600); potential detention or deportation thaiembassy.org.
Is Visa on Arrival available for Indonesians? Yes, but rarely needed due to 60-day exemption; costs $60 (2,000 THB) for 15 days mfa.go.th.
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 Indonesians with cultural etiquette—modest attire, polite greetings like “sawasdee,” and visa-smart planning—unlocks a vibrant, eco-friendly journey through Thailand’s cultural heartland. With tour costs from $15–$200, sustainable Thailand Tours, and attractions like the Grand Palace and Chiang Mai’s temples, this trip offers adventure and sustainability for Indonesian travelers. Whether choosing a self-guided or guided experience with Thailand Travel, leverage the 60-day visa exemption or apply for e-visas early via thaievisa.go.th, and respect local customs for the best experience. Safe travels!
Sources:
thaiembassy.org
mfa.go.th
tourismthailand.org
travel.state.gov
culturetrip.com
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