About the Thai ETA
Thailand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs will implement a new electronic travel authorization (ETA) system. In addition, the Thai ETA will be similar to the other countries’ existing visa-exemption schemes.
Furthermore, each ETA applies to a single entry into Thailand for up to 60 days. Also, it is extendable by 30 days.
With the Thai ETA, authorities hope to enhance security, streamline entry, and reduce checkpoint disputes. Moreover, they will also be able to monitor the activity of foreign visitors.
Eligibility for Kosovars
The following criteria apply to Kosovars visiting Thailand:
1. Citizenship: Kosovo is among the 93 visa-exempt countries whose nationals may apply for a Thai ETA.
2. Passport validity: Kosovar travelers’ passports must have at least six months’ validity upon their intended exit from Thailand.
3. Length of stay: Trips to Thailand must be for 60 days unless they wish to extend it by 30 more days.
4. Lack of criminality: Kosovar visitors must not have any criminal records or breaches in Saudi Arabia or elsewhere.
Thai ETA Requirements
Correspondingly, Kosovar travelers will likely need to prepare the following to apply for a Thai ETA:
1. Valid passport: Kosovars must possess a passport valid up to their departure from Thailand.
2. E-mail address: They must have an active e-mail address. Furthermore, ETA authorities will e-mail a unique QR code to be linked to their passport.
3. Passport photos: Kosovar travelers must prepare a passport-sized photograph of themselves against a plain white background. More importantly, they must not wear glasses or accessories, unless medically or religiously required.
4. Thai ETA application form: Kosovars must accurately complete an online application form.
5. Travel details: They may need to share details of their flight and accommodation. Additionally, Thai authorities may also ask for proof of an onward or return travel ticket.
6. Financial capacity: Kosovar travelers may need to show evidence that they can cover their expenses while in Thailand.
7. Health insurance: It is common among electronic travel authorization systems to integrate the selection of a travel insurance provider in the application.
How to Apply
To apply for a Thai ETA, Kosovars must follow the guide below:
1. Go to the application portal.
2. Next, provide data such as your personal information, passport information, and travel and accommodation details.
3. Afterwards, submit the online application form. You will not need to pay for the Thai ETA as it will be free of charge.
4. At this point, wait for the decision on your application, which will be sent to your e-mail address shortly. Moreover, keep in mind that Thai authorities may require further documents or information. Hence, this may affect the processing time.
Tips to Get a Thai ETA
The following is some practical advice to help increase Kosovars’s chances of securing a Thai ETA:
1. Apply for a Thai ETA in advance of your planned travel to Thailand. Moreover, it prevents any delays or inconveniences in case the decision on the application takes longer than usual.
2. Ensure that you fill out the application form completely and as accurately as possible. Moreover, any discrepancies may cause the delay or denial of your application.
3. Next, organize and prepare requirements to ensure a smooth and worry-free application.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which countries are eligible for the Thai ETA?
The Thai ETA is mandatory for nationals of 93 visa-exempt countries. Below is the list of eligible countries:
Europe: Albania, Andorra, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Kosovo, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Russia, San Marino, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Ukraine, UK.
Asia: Bhutan, Brunei, Cambodia, China, Georgia, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Israel, Japan, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Korea (South Korea), Laos, Macau, Malaysia, Maldives, Mongolia, Philippines, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Turkey, Uzbekistan, Vietnam.
Americas: Brazil, Canada, Colombia, Cuba, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Guatemala, Jamaica, Mexico, Panama, Peru, Trinidad and Tobago, USA, Uruguay.
Oceania: Australia, Fiji, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Tonga.
Middle East: Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, UAE.
Africa: Mauritius, Morocco, South Africa.
Are there people who don’t need to apply for a Thai ETA?
Diplomatic passport holders, UN Laissez-Passer holders, and Border Pass users do not need to apply for a Thai ETA.
Is the Thai ETA like a visa?
It is not a visa and does not guarantee entry into Thailand. Moreover, border control authorities may still refuse you entry based on various criteria.
What happens if I overstay my ETA?
Overstaying the authorized period may result in penalties, including daily fines.
Is there a limit to the number of 60-day trips I can take to Thailand per year?
It is still unclear whether Thai authorities will limit the number of 60-day entries per traveler per year.
Do I need to present my Thai ETA along with my passport when boarding a plane?
Thai authorities have yet to confirm if airline staff will verify passengers’ Thai electronic travel authorization.
