Thailand Visa for Bangladeshi Citizens: A Comprehensive Travel Guide for International Travelers

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 thaievisa.go.th, immigration.go.th, travel.state.gov, thaiembassy.org, and tourismthailand.org. Information based on the latest data; verify before travel. Reflects Thailand's updated travel regulations.

Bangladeshi citizens are NOT eligible for Thailand's Visa on Arrival (VOA) program. You must apply for a tourist visa (TR visa) in advance through a Thai embassy/consulate or obtain an e-visa where available. This guide details all visa options, application processes, and travel tips specifically for Bangladeshi passport holders entering the Land of Smiles.

Essential for Smooth Entry to Thailand's Cultural Paradise

Thailand, the Land of Smiles, captivates with its golden temples, pristine beaches, vibrant street food, and cultural landmarks like Bangkok's Grand Palace, Chiang Mai's ancient temples, and Phuket's island paradise tourismthailand.org. For Bangladeshi citizens, understanding Thailand's visa requirements is crucial for seamless entry, whether joining guided Thailand Tours or exploring independently. Unlike some nationalities enjoying visa exemptions, Bangladeshi passport holders require a tourist visa (TR) processed through Thai embassies or e-visa systems where available thaievisa.go.th. This comprehensive guide provides visa application details, cultural insights, and sustainable Thailand Travel options tailored specifically for Bangladeshi travelers.

With Thailand's modern infrastructure including Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang International Airports plus land borders with Cambodia, Laos, and Malaysia, proper visa preparation ensures hassle-free entry. This guide covers embassy applications, e-visa processes, required documents, and eco-friendly travel options for Bangladeshi citizens.

Administrative Note

Bangladeshi citizens require a Tourist Visa (TR) for Thailand stays up to 60 days, processed through Thai embassies/consulates or e-visa system. Visa fee: 2,000 THB (~7,500 BDT). Passport must be valid 6+ months with 2 blank pages. Multiple-entry visas available for frequent travelers. Overstay fines: 500 THB/day. Verify requirements via thaievisa.go.th or nearest Thai embassy.

Primary Visa Option: Tourist Visa (TR)

Single Entry Tourist Visa (TR):

• Duration: 60 days from entry date, extendable once for 30 days (total 90 days)

• Purpose: Tourism, visiting friends/family, short cultural tours

• Cost: 2,000 THB (~7,500 BDT) non-refundable application fee

• Processing Time: 4-15 working days (varies by embassy)

• Validity: 3 months from issuance date for first entry

Multiple Entry Tourist Visa (METV):

• Duration: 6 months validity, each stay up to 60 days (extendable)

• Purpose: Frequent travelers visiting multiple times within 6 months

• Cost: 5,000 THB (~18,750 BDT)

• Requirements: Must exit Thailand after each 60-day stay

Required Documents for Thai Tourist Visa

Mandatory Documents:

1. Passport: Original + 2 photocopies of bio-data page (valid 6+ months, 2 blank pages)

2. Visa Application Form: Completed TM.86 form (download from thaievisa.go.th)

3. Passport Photos: 2 recent photos (4x6 cm, white background, 6 months old max)

4. Flight Itinerary: Round-trip ticket reservation (not purchased ticket)

5. Hotel Bookings: Confirmed reservations for entire stay or invitation letter from host

6. Bank Statement: Last 3 months, minimum 20,000 THB (~75,000 BDT) balance

7. Income Tax Return: Latest year's return OR employment letter + salary slips

8. Travel Insurance: Minimum 100,000 THB medical coverage (recommended, some embassies require)

Additional Documents (May be requested):

• Leave Approval: From employer stating travel dates

• Marriage Certificate: If spouse travels together

• Birth Certificate: For children traveling with parents

• Invitation Letter: From Thai host with copy of their ID/passport

Thai E-Visa System for Bangladeshi Citizens

Availability: Limited - Check thaievisa.go.th for updates Process:

1. Visit thaievisa.go.th → Select "e-Visa"

2. Create account → Fill TM.86 online form

3. Upload digital documents (passport scan, photo, itinerary)

4. Pay online (credit/debit card) → Receive approval PDF

5. Print e-visa → Present at Thai immigration with passport

Processing: 7-15 working days Cost: 2,000 THB + service fee (~8,000-10,000 BDT total) Benefits: No embassy visit required, faster processing

Thai Embassy Locations for Bangladeshi Citizens

Primary Options:

1. Royal Thai Embassy, Dhaka (Recommended):

   • Address: Plot No: E-7, Road No: 90, Gulshan-2, Dhaka-1212

   • Phone: +880-2-5881-3901/02

   • Visa Section: Monday-Friday 9:00 AM-12:00 PM

   • Processing: 4-7 working days

   • Website: dhaka.thaiembassy.org

2. Royal Thai Embassy, New Delhi (Alternative):

   • Address: 40/3, Golf Links, New Delhi 110003, India

   • Suitable for travelers with Indian visa or layovers

   • Processing: 3-5 working days

3. Royal Thai Consulate-General, Kolkata (Regional option):

   • Address: 3, Lord Sinha Road, Kolkata 700071, India

   • For eastern Bangladesh residents

Visa Application Process (Dhaka Embassy):

1. Complete Form: Download TM.86 from embassy website, fill accurately

2. Gather Documents: Prepare all required originals + photocopies

3. Book Appointment: Some embassies require online booking

4. Submit Application: Visit during office hours with all documents

5. Pay Fee: 2,000 THB cash (no BDT accepted)

6. Collect Passport: Return after 4-7 working days with receipt

Respecting Thailand's "Land of Smiles" Traditions

Visa Application Etiquette:

• Dress smart casual for embassy visits (no shorts, sleeveless tops)

• Be punctual - arrive 15 minutes early for appointments

• Speak politely to consular staff using "ka/krab" (female/male polite particles)

• Have all documents organized in clear plastic folders

Thai Cultural Norms for Bangladeshi Travelers:

• Wai Greeting: Press palms together at chest level with slight bow

• Temple Etiquette: Remove shoes, cover shoulders/knees, no pointing at Buddha images

• Royal Respect: Never criticize Thai monarchy (lèse-majesté laws apply)

• Monks: Women maintain 1-meter distance; men don't touch/sit next to monks

Practical Travel Tips:

• Learn basic Thai: "Sawasdee ka/krab" (hello), "Khob khun ka/krab" (thank you)

• Carry passport copy at all times (photocopy + original in hotel safe)

• Use 7-Eleven ATMs (lower fees: 150-220 THB vs 250 THB+ elsewhere)

• Bargain politely at markets (20-30% off starting price)

1. Self-Guided Visa Exploration

• Details: Explore Bangkok's Grand Palace, Wat Arun, and Chatuchak Weekend Market independently

• Visa Requirements: Valid TR visa + passport photocopy

• Schedule: Grand Palace: 8:30 AM–3:30 PM (500 THB/~1,875 BDT)

• Cost: Entry: 500-1,000 THB (~1,875-3,750 BDT); BTS/MRT: 16-59 THB/ride

• Eco-Tip: Use BTS Skytrain (150 THB/day pass) instead of taxis

2. Legend Travel Group (Bangkok Cultural Visa Tour)

• Details: 1-day guided tour: Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Chinatown food tour

• Includes: English guide, transport, lunch, entry fees, visa guidance

• Schedule: Daily 8:00 AM pickup from Bangkok hotels

• Cost: 2,500-3,500 THB (~9,375-13,125 BDT)/person

• Visa Support: Pre-departure visa checklist + embassy coordination

3. Chiang Mai Temple & Hill Tribe Cultural Tour

• Details: Doi Suthep Temple, hill tribe villages, night bazaar

• Visa Requirements: TR visa valid for northern Thailand travel

• Cost: 2,000-4,000 THB (~7,500-15,000 BDT) including transport

• Eco-Friendly: Supports local hill tribe communities

4. Multi-Day Thailand Cultural Immersion (Legend Travel Group)

• Details: 5D4N: Bangkok → Chiang Mai → Golden Triangle

• Includes: Domestic flights, 4* hotels, English guides, all meals, entries

• Visa Support: Full visa application assistance + extensions

• Cost: 25,000-35,000 THB (~93,750-131,250 BDT)/person

• Eco-Features: Carbon offset flights, sustainable hotels

Peak Cultural Seasons:

• Songkran (Thai New Year): April 13-15 - Water festival nationwide

• Loy Krathong: November full moon - Floating lantern festival

• Yi Peng: November - Chiang Mai lantern festival

• Chinese New Year: January/February - Bangkok Chinatown celebrations

Optimal Weather Windows:

• Cool Season (Nov-Feb): 20-30°C, ideal for temple tours

• Hot Season (Mar-May): 30-40°C, beach destinations preferred

• Green Season (Jun-Oct): Rainy but 30-50% cheaper accommodations

Visa Processing Timing:

• Apply 1-2 months before travel for stress-free processing

• Avoid applying during Thai holidays (April 13-15, December 31-Jan 2)

• Peak season (Nov-Feb) requires 2-week advance applications

Week 1-2: Preparation Phase

1. Check Passport: Valid 6+ months, 2 blank pages

2. Gather Finances: Bank statements showing 20,000 THB minimum

3. Book Itinerary: Flights + hotels (refundable reservations OK)

4. Travel Insurance: 100,000 THB coverage minimum

5. Download Forms: TM.86 application + photo requirements

Week 3: Application Submission

1. Complete TM.86: Fill accurately, no corrections allowed

2. Prepare Envelope: Documents + 2 photos + application fee

3. Embassy Visit: Dhaka Thai Embassy, Monday-Friday 9 AM-12 PM

4. Fee Payment: 2,000 THB cash (exact amount required)

5. Receipt Collection: Note collection date (4-7 working days)

Week 4: Passport Collection

1. Verify Documents: Check visa details match passport

2. Prepare Travel: Print confirmations, pack visa documents

3. Backup Plans: Keep embassy contact for emergencies

Pack for a comfortable, sustainable visit:

• Documents: Passport (valid 6+ months), printed visa ($40 or 1,400 THB), passport photocopy, proof of onward travel (e.g., return flight ticket), proof of accommodation, 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 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., 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–$10 or 150–350 THB); local SIM ($3–$5 or 100–150 THB); waterproof camera ($10 or 350 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.

Costs for Visa-Prepared Travel to Thailand

Visa and Travel Costs

• Tourist Visa Costs: Single entry: $40 (1,400 THB); extension: $55 (1,900 THB) thaiembassy.org.

• Non-Immigrant Visa Costs: Single entry: $80 (2,800 THB); multiple entry: $200 (7,000 THB) thaiembassy.org.

• Self-Guided Exploration: Entry: free (markets); Grand Palace: $15 (500 THB); Wat Phra That Doi Suthep: $1–$2 (30–60 THB); transport (tuk-tuk: $1–$3 or 30–100 THB; taxi: $3–$10 or 100–350 THB).

• 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): $10–$30 (350–1,000 THB). Other Costs

• Local Snacks (e.g., pad thai, som tam): $0.30–$1 (10–30 THB).

• Souvenirs (e.g., crafts, textiles): $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, and transport; $0.30–$15 for purchases or add-ons; apply for visas early to avoid delays.

• Visa Tips: Apply for a tourist visa ($40) or non-immigrant visa ($80–$200) at the Thai Embassy in Dhaka; Visa on Arrival is not available; double-check details to match passport thaiembassy.org.

• Border Crossing Tips: Choose major entry points like Suvarnabhumi or Aranyaprathet; cross early (6:00 AM) to avoid crowds; carry printed visa and passport photocopy; have proof of onward travel and accommodation 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 6:00 AM–10:00 PM; cultural sites open 8:00 AM–5:00 PM; peak crowds in cool season (November–February); book early for festivals.

• Sustainability: Use bicycles or tuk-tuks; 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 weather.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, nearest embassy).

• Do Bangladeshi citizens need a visa for Thailand? Yes, a tourist visa ($40) or non-immigrant visa ($80–$200) is required; Visa on Arrival is not available thaiembassy.org.

• Which borders accept Thai visas? All 6 airports, 29 land borders (e.g., Aranyaprathet, Mae Sai), and 10 seaports accept visas tourismthailand.org.

• How much does a Thailand visa cost for Bangladeshi citizens? Tourist visa: $40 (single entry); non-immigrant visa: $80–$200; extensions: $55 thaiembassy.org.

• Can Thailand visas be extended? Tourist visas extendable for 30 days ($55); non-immigrant visas extendable with sponsor thaiembassy.org.

• What are the penalties for overstaying? Fines of 500 THB/day ($15/day), up to 20,000 THB ($600); potential detention or deportation travel.state.gov.

• Is Visa on Arrival available for Bangladeshi citizens? No, apply for a visa in advance at the Thai Embassy in Dhaka thaiembassy.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 Bangladeshi Citizens 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 Bangladeshi travelers. Whether choosing a self-guided or guided experience with Thailand Travel, apply for visas early via thaiembassy.org and respect local customs for the best experience. Note that Visa on Arrival is not available for Bangladeshi citizens; plan accordingly. Safe travels!

Sources:

• tourismthailand.org

• thaiembassy.org

• travel.state.gov

• culturetrip.com

• bangkokpost.com