Thailand, with its stunning beaches, vibrant cities, and warm hospitality, continues to be a top travel destination for Australians. Whether you’re planning a short holiday, a long backpacking trip, or considering an extended stay to work remotely or retire, one of the most important questions to ask is: how long can Australians stay in Thailand?
In this blog, we’ll break down the different visa options available for Australians, how long each allows you to stay, and what you should know before packing your bags. We’ll also talk about when it might be wise to seek help from an immigration consultant in Australia to make your journey smooth and stress-free.
Visa-Free Entry: 30 Days for Tourists
Australia is on Thailand’s list of visa-exempt countries, which means Australians can enter Thailand without a visa for up to 30 days, if arriving by air. This is great for a short holiday or a quick getaway.
If you enter Thailand by land (from a neighboring country like Laos, Cambodia, or Malaysia), you can still enter without a visa, but the stay is usually limited to two entries per calendar year via land borders.
💡 Pro Tip: Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months upon entry, and have proof of onward travel (like a flight ticket) and sufficient funds for your stay, just in case you’re asked at the border.
Extending Your Stay: 30-Day Extension
Once you’re in Thailand on the 30-day visa exemption, you can apply for a 30-day extension at an immigration office within Thailand. This gives Australians up to 60 days total in the country without needing a visa before arrival.
The extension typically costs 1,900 Thai Baht (approximately AUD 80) and can be done at immigration offices in most major cities like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, or Phuket.
Tourist Visa: Up to 60 Days + Extension
For Australians planning to stay a bit longer, applying for a Tourist Visa (TR) before you arrive is a great option. This visa allows for a stay of up to 60 days, and just like the visa-free entry, it can be extended once for an additional 30 days.
So if you’re planning to travel around Thailand for 2 to 3 months, this route is often more straightforward than trying to piece together multiple border runs or extensions.
Special Tourist Visa (STV): For Long Stays (Subject to Availability)
The Special Tourist Visa (STV) was introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic to encourage long-term stays. This visa allowed visitors to stay for up to 90 days, and it could be renewed twice—giving a total stay of 270 days.
However, the STV was a temporary program and may not always be available. It’s worth checking the latest updates with Thai immigration authorities or speaking with an immigration consultant in Australia who stays up-to-date with policy changes and reintroductions.
Retirement Visa (Non-Immigrant O or OA): For Over 50s
If you’re aged 50 or above and dreaming of retiring in paradise, Thailand offers a Retirement Visa (Non-Immigrant O or OA). This visa allows you to stay for up to one year, and it can be renewed annually.
To qualify, you’ll need to meet financial requirements—such as having a bank deposit of 800,000 Thai Baht in a Thai bank or a monthly income of at least 65,000 Baht (or a combination of both).
Health insurance and a clean criminal record are also usually required, especially for the OA visa.
This is where working with a professional can help. An immigration consultant in Australia can assist with the paperwork and make sure you meet all the eligibility criteria before you even set foot in Thailand.
Education Visa or Work Visa
If you plan to study Thai language, take part in a cultural course, or even teach English or work remotely (legally!), you’ll need the appropriate Non-Immigrant ED (education) or Non-Immigrant B (business) visa.
These visas typically allow you to stay for 90 days initially, with the possibility of extension, depending on your course or employment situation.
Keep in mind that working in Thailand without a proper work permit is illegal—even for digital nomads—so it’s crucial to get the right paperwork. This is another situation where an experienced immigration consultant Australia can provide valuable guidance, especially if you’re navigating employment or study arrangements abroad.
Can You Do Border Runs to Extend Your Stay?
In the past, it was common for travelers to do “border runs” to nearby countries like Laos or Malaysia to re-enter Thailand and reset their visa-free period. However, Thai immigration has tightened regulations to discourage visa runs.
If you’re caught abusing visa-exemption entries, you may be denied entry at the border. It’s always safer to go through the proper visa application process, especially for stays longer than 60 days.
Final Thoughts: Planning Your Stay the Smart Way
So, how long can Australians stay in Thailand? The short answer: anywhere from 30 days to a year or more, depending on your visa type and purpose of travel.
- Up to 30 days: Visa-free entry
- Up to 60 days: Visa-free + extension
- Up to 90 days or more: Tourist visa + extension or STV (if available)
- Up to 1 year: Retirement, education, or business visa
Whether you’re chasing sunsets in Phuket, sipping coffee in Chiang Mai, or exploring temples in Bangkok, Thailand offers countless experiences. But staying longer than 30 days requires a bit more planning and paperwork.
If you’re unsure where to start or want to make sure your visa application is successful, it might be time to consult a professional. A registered immigration consultant in Australia can help you navigate the complex visa requirements and choose the best option for your trip.
Ready to plan your Thai adventure? Do your homework, explore your visa options, and consider getting professional advice to ensure a stress-free and legal stay. After all, the Land of Smiles is even better when you can truly relax and enjoy it—without worrying about immigration issues!