Songkhla Entry Requirements
Visa, immigration, and customs information
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Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC)
- Who
- All non-Thai nationals entering Thailand by air, land or sea, including infants and children and visa-exempt or visa-on-arrival travellers
- When
- Within 3 days before arrival (including the arrival date); a new card for every entry
- Cost
- Free
The TDAC is filed online or in THIM, the Thai Immigration Bureau's official app, and is not a visa. Crew, and transit passengers who do not pass through immigration, do not need one. Kiosks and Wi-Fi are available on arrival. Look-alike websites charge for this free card.
Checked against the official source 2026-09-26 -
Thailand e-Visa
- Who
- Travellers who need a visa for Thailand
- When
- Before travel
Visas are applied for on the official Thailand Electronic Visa website. The e-Visa is separate from the Digital Arrival Card, which every non-Thai arrival still files.
Checked against the official source 2026-09-26 -
Thailand visa exemption for tourism (up to 30 days)
- Who
- Ordinary passport holders of the 60 countries and territories on Thailand's visa-exemption list, visiting for tourism
- When
- At entry, at most twice per calendar year
Since 15 September 2026 eligible visitors may stay up to 30 days without a visa. On arrival, immigration officers ask for proof of accommodation and of onward travel within 30 days, and may ask for proof of funds of 20,000 THB per person. An extension of up to 30 days can be requested in Thailand. Travellers planning more than two visits a year, or a purpose other than tourism, should apply for a visa.
Checked against the official source 2026-09-26
Visa Requirements
Entry permissions vary by nationality. Find your category below.
Thailand's visa policy sets your Songkhla entry requirements based on your passport. Rules vary by nationality. Check the official immigration website for your specific situation.
Certain passport holders enter for tourism without a pre-approved visa.
Eligibility and exact stay length depend on your nationality. Confirm your status on the official Thai immigration website. You may need to show onward travel proof and sufficient funds on entry.
Some travellers need to obtain an electronic visa before their trip.
Cost: Visa fees vary by nationality and type.
The e-Visa differs from the Thailand Digital Arrival Card. All non-Thai arrivals must complete both.
Nationals from countries ineligible for visa-free entry or e-Visa need a traditional visa before travel.
It's important to apply well in advance of your planned trip to Songkhla.
Arrival Process
At Songkhla's airport or border checkpoint, you'll face standard immigration and customs controls. The process is usually efficient. Organized documents help.
Documents to Have Ready
Tips for Smooth Entry
Customs & Duty-Free
Thai customs regulations apply in Songkhla. You may bring reasonable duty-free quantities for personal use. Limits and prohibitions exist.
Prohibited Items
- Narcotics and illegal drugs - strictly prohibited
- Obscene materials, publications, and items - illegal to import
- Counterfeit goods and pirated copyright items - prohibited
- Firearms and ammunition without a permit - illegal
Restricted Items
- Medications, psychotropic drugs, need a doctor's prescription and Thai FDA permission.
- Plants, seeds, and soil - require a phytosanitary certificate
- Animals and animal products - require import permits and health certificates
Health Requirements
No universal health documents apply to all Songkhla arrivals. Specific rules depend on travel history.
Required Vaccinations
- Yellow fever vaccination certificate required if arriving from a country with yellow fever transmission risk.
Recommended Vaccinations
- Routine vaccinations (MMR, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis), Hepatitis A, and Typhoid are recommended for most Thailand travellers.
Health Insurance
Travel insurance is strongly recommended. Check the current entry rules on the official government website before you travel. Medical care in Songkhla and Thailand is generally good. Serious treatment or evacuation costs can be substantial.
Protect Your Trip with Travel Insurance
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Get a Free, No-Obligation Quote from World NomadsRead our complete Songkhla Travel Insurance Guide →
Important Contacts
Essential resources for your trip.
Special Situations
Additional requirements for specific circumstances.
Every child entering Thailand needs their own passport. If a child travels with only one parent or without parents, immigration officials may request a letter of consent from the absent parent or parents. Carry a copy of the child's birth certificate. Plan ahead.
Bringing dogs and cats into Thailand means following strict import rules. Your pet needs a microchip, rabies vaccinations, and health certificates issued within the set time before travel. You must obtain an import permit from the Thai Department of Livestock Development. Start early.
If you want to remain in Songkhla beyond what your initial entry stamp allows, apply for an extension at a local immigration office in Thailand. Hat Yai is one option. The exact possibility and length of any extension depend entirely on your visa type. Overstaying your visa triggers fines. Avoid this.
Know What to Pack
Climate-specific clothing, travel documents, electronics, and gear, with shopping links for every item.
View Songkhla Packing List →Ready to plan your trip to Songkhla?
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