Thailand visa for Germans: do you need one?

Visa rules for a tourist visit

Germany is on the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs list of countries whose citizens can enter Thailand visa-free for tourism for up to 30 days, in force since 15 September 2026. The Federal Foreign Office (as of 27 October 2026) and the Royal Thai Embassy in Munich say the same.

The number of visa-free entries is limited, but official sources differ on which entries count. The Federal Foreign Office says visa-free entries over land and sea are limited to 2 per calendar year, and that at airports the immigration authority decides. The Royal Thai Embassy in Munich says entries by air are unlimited and only land and sea entries are capped at 2 per calendar year. France Diplomatie, the French government's travel advice, says only 2 visa-free entries are allowed per calendar year, without limiting this to land and sea. If you plan several trips in one year, check with the Thai embassy before you go.

How long you can stay

You can stay up to 30 days. The Federal Foreign Office says the visa-free stay can be extended once by up to 30 more days. The Royal Thai Embassy in Munich says you apply for the extension at the Immigration Bureau and that it is solely at the immigration officer's discretion.

If you overstay, the Federal Foreign Office says the fine is 500 baht per day, up to a maximum of 20,000 baht.

What to have ready

• Passport: the Federal Foreign Office says it must be valid for at least 6 months at the time of entry.
• Onward travel: the Federal Foreign Office says you need a visa if you cannot show an air, bus or train ticket for your onward or return journey.
• Proof of funds: the official sources give different amounts. The Federal Foreign Office says visitors without a visa need at least 20,000 baht (about 550 euros). The Royal Thai Embassy in Washington (updated 17 September 2026) also says 20,000 baht per person, or 40,000 baht per family. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (July 2026) gives 10,000 baht per person or 20,000 baht per family for certain visa-exempt cases.
• Fees: there is no visa fee for the visa exemption, and the TDAC arrival card is free.

The arrival form

You must submit the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) within 3 days before you arrive. It is free on the official Thai Immigration website, and our separate TDAC page shows you how to fill it in.

Recent and upcoming changes

• 15 September 2026: the 30-day tourist visa exemption replaced the previous 60-day exemption. Travellers who were already in Thailand keep the stay they were given. The Federal Foreign Office reflects the new 30-day rule.
• Proposed, not confirmed: a 450 baht entry fee for foreign tourists from early 2027, according to a Thai Government Public Relations Department headline of 17 August 2026. It has not been confirmed as approved and has no confirmed start date.