Thailand's Medical Visa: Detailed Steps for Successful Application

Thailand Medical Visa Application: Your Step-by-Step Guide

Thailand has become a sought-after destination for medical tourism, attracting individuals worldwide with its state-of-the-art medical facilities, expert doctors, and affordable services. As the hub for top-tier medical and wellness treatments, it offers a wide range of options for those seeking medical care abroad.

To ensure you have a seamless experience, understanding the visa process is key. This article walks you through everything you need to know about applying for a medical visa so you can concentrate on your health and enjoy your time in Thailand.

What is Thailand’s Medical Visa?

The Non-Immigrant Visa “O-A” (Long Stay) is Thailand’s medical visa, created for foreign nationals planning to stay in Thailand for medical reasons. Typically, this visa allows an initial stay of up to 90 days and can be extended for an additional year, provided that the extension is approved by Thai Immigration authorities.

Medical Visa vs. Tourist Visa

In many cases, visitors from most countries do not require a visa for tourism and can stay in Thailand for up to 90 days, depending on the passport held (see the full list of visa exemptions). This stay is often extendable at a local immigration office in Thailand.

You can also opt to apply for a tourist visa at a Thai consulate or embassy before your trip, which typically grants a 60-day stay with the possibility of an additional 30-day extension in Thailand.

For the majority of medical travelers, a tourist visa should suffice. However, if you are from a country with a limited stay under the visa exemption or require extended treatment such as Limb Lengthening Surgery or Sex Reassignment Surgery, the medical visa offers a longer stay ranging from 90 days to one year.

How to Apply for the Medical Visa

To apply for your Thai medical visa, follow these steps:

Identify the Nearest Thai Embassy or Consulate: Start by locating the nearest Thai embassy or consulate in your area using the embassy directory.
Complete the Application Form: Fill in the visa application form available at the embassy or online.
Collect All Required Documents: Make sure to gather the necessary documents, such as your passport, passport-sized photos, completed application form, a medical certificate from a hospital in Thailand, and proof of financial support for the duration of your stay.
Submit Your Application: Submit your completed visa application, along with the required documents and visa fee, to the Thai embassy or consulate.
Wait for Processing: Processing times vary, so ensure you apply well ahead of time and confirm the processing time with your local embassy.

Documents Needed for a Thai Medical Visa Application

To apply for a medical visa to Thailand, make sure to gather the following documents:

Passport: Must be valid for at least six months beyond your entry date and have two or more blank pages.
Photographs: Recent passport-sized photos (within six months).
Medical Certificate: A letter from a Thai hospital or medical center confirming your appointment.
Financial Proof: Bank statements or a bank letter confirming you have sufficient funds to support your stay in Thailand.
Travel Itinerary: Details of your flight and accommodation arrangements while in Thailand.
Visa Fee: Payment of the application fee for your visa.
Health Insurance: International health insurance coverage that is valid for the duration of your stay in Thailand.

If you are accompanied by a medical escort, they may apply for a Non-Immigrant Visa “O” to join you.

Be aware that these requirements might vary depending on your country. Always check with your local Thai embassy for the most up-to-date information.

After You Arrive in Thailand

Your medical visa is valid for a single entry, granting you up to 90 days in Thailand, with the possibility of extending it for up to one year at the local immigration office.

If you plan to leave Thailand during your stay, make sure you apply for a re-entry permit. Without it, your medical visa will be canceled once you depart, and you will need to reapply for a new visa to re-enter.

Foreign nationals staying in Thailand for over 90 days are required to report their address every 90 days. This can be done in person at an immigration office or by mail. Make sure to visit the immigration website for the latest reporting guidelines.

The 90-day report is not an extension of your visa, but you can apply for a visa extension and report your address at the same time.

We Can Help!

While we are not we are not a licensed medical or travel agency, we are able to help you coordinate and prepare for your medical procedure so that your itinerary is optimized and stress-free.