Thai embassy launches electronic visa application

IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? The Royal Thai Embassy in Singapore has launched an electronic visa application system that allows applicants to complete, submit and check the status of application forms online.

What does the change mean? Effective Feb. 1, visa applications submitted at the Royal Thai Embassy in Singapore may be submitted electronically. Manual applications will continue to be accepted until April 1, at which point all applications must be submitted online.

• Implementation time frame: Feb. 1.
• Visas/permits affected: Thai visas applied for at the Royal Thai Embassy in Singapore.
• Who is affected: Foreign nationals applying for Thai visas in Singapore.
• Next steps: Electronic visa applications may be lodged by logging on to this website.

Background: The online process involves creating a login and password, completing an application form, uploading the form and required supporting documents and submitting the application. The applicant may then check the status of the applications, and once the status shows that it has been reviewed, the applicant then brings a duly signed hard copy of the application form, a passport and, in most cases, a photograph to the embassy before the visa can be obtained. Additional details are available on the Royal Thai Embassy website.

BAL Analysis: Applicants may now use the new online visa application system and will be required to do so beginning April 1. The system is expected to streamline the visa application process, though technical delays are possible as the system is rolled out.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group in Singapore. For additional information, please contact singapore@bal.com.

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