The coronavirus pandemic has affected almost all industries across the world. One of them that has been severely crippled is the tourism industry. With strict border controls and lockdown implemented for months, tourism reviving across the countries is seeing a change gradually. Almost every country is working on reviving their tourism, some offering great deals while others being extra cautious about welcoming tourists. Thailand is one country that is changing the rules of arrival for foreigners here. The latest Thai Visa rules make it a very expensive destination. Other than the usual passport and application forms, an individual's bank statements for 6 months will now be considered. One of the mandates being a bank balance of 500,000 baht (half a million baht) which is equivalent to 15,000 euros. In August, the country made 30-day stay mandatory which includes a 14- day quarantine. We tell you more list of documents and all that will be required for Thai Visa.

Documents Required for Thai Visa

  • A valid passport.

  • Copy of the passport.

  • Complete signed visa application form.

  • Recent colour passport-sized photographs. The photo has to be taken within last 6 months of your application.

  • Current bank statement. The closing balance for every month for the last 6 months has to be 15,000 euro/person.

Besides, the country has also launched a special tourist visa provision which offers a stay for 90 days! But again, there is a compulsory 12-day quarantine at a hospital of alternative property in Bangkok. Residents of Hong Kong and Macau will can stay in the country for nine months. This visa can be extended upto 270 days. This will however include hefty health insurance that will cover COVID-19 treatment and a two-week hotel quarantine. As per the consulate, applicants for the special tourist visas are required to provide a bank statement showing at least 500,000 baht (US$16,000) on deposit in the past six months. Want to Work From Home by The Beach? Bermuda Islands is Offering Year-Long Stays For Remote Workers, Know How to Apply.

Starting this month, the country has reopened for certain groups of foreigners on both short and long-term visits. These include foreign athletes, non-immigrant holder visas who are coming for business, foreigners seeking STV (Special Tourist Visa), Holders of the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Business Travel Card and pilots and cabin crew of Thai Airways.

Overall, your trip to Thailand at least in the immediate few months is bound to get very expensive. Sipping on some cocktails, relaxing by the beach in crystal clear waters may have to halt for now.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 19, 2020 05:25 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).