How to Apply Visas for Thailand Vietnam and Cambodia Tour?

Traveling to Southeast Asia is an exciting adventure, especially when you are planning a trip to visit Thailand, Vietnam and Cambodia. They are visa-free for many countries, and if your nationality is not included in the visa-free range of one of the three countries, then applying for a visa will be a very critical part.

Visa applications can be made at embassy, consulate, visas on arrival, and the most recommended e-visa, which is a convenient option in all three countries. Just check the official website for requirements, prepare the required materials in advance, fill in the online form, pay the fee, and wait for the visa to be obtained.

In this guide, we will walk you through all the information you need to apply for visas for Thailand, Vietnam and Cambodia, and provide practical tips to make your visa application go smoothly!

Thailand Cambodia and Vietnam Visa Requirements: Who Needs a Visa?

For travel planning, understanding visa requirements is the first step. Regulations vary from country to country, and for Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam tourist visas, you'll need to check if you qualify for a visa exemption.

Thailand

Thailand is one its own popular tourist destinations, and they grant visa-free entry to citizens of 93 countries and regions, typically for stays of 60 days or less:

Andorra, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Bahrain, Brazil, Brunei, Canada, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Indonesia, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Kuwait, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Maldives, Mauritius, Monaco, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Oman, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, San Marino, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, South Africa, South Korea, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom and Northern Ireland, United States, Peru, Hong Kong, Vietnam, Saudi Arabia, Bhutan, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Fiji, Georgia, India, Kazakhstan, Malta, Mexico, Papua New Guinea, Romania, Uzbekistan, Taiwan, China, Laos, Macau, Mongolia, Russia, Cambodia, Albania, Colombia, Croatia, Cuba, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Guatemala, Jamaica, Jordan, Kosovo, Morocco, Panama, Sri Lanka, Trinidad and Tobago, Tonga, Uruguay.

This is very convenient for short trips! But even if you belong to a visa-free country, your passport should be valid for at least six months after your planned duration of stay.

Also, to simplify entry procedures and enhance border security, Thailand will introduce an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) from June 2025 onwards for all travelers entering the country visa-free.

If you are going to stay for more than 60 days or you are from a country that is not visa-exempt, you have to apply for a visa, it tends to demand more paperwork and a longer application process, which we'll discuss later.

The central spire of Wat Arun towers high above the Chao Phraya River.

Cambodia

Cambodia has a fairly lenient visa policy, with some passport holders from Southeast Asia being granted visa-free entry for up to 30 days, here are some details:

Brunei, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, Barbados, Dominica, Ecuador, Gambia, Haiti, Micronesia, Panama, Seychelles, Maldives, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and Palestine.

For citizens from other countries, the visa on arrival at international airports, and land border crossings is the most useful method to get a visa. This means that you just arrive in Cambodia, and then apply for a visa there. Or apply for an e-visa online before you travel, which can save you time at the airport.

Vietnam

Vietnam offers visa-free entry to the following nationalities for stays of 15-45 days, depending on the country:

Belarus, Brunei, Cambodia, Chile, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Laos, Malaysia, Mongolia, Myanmar, Norway, Panama, Philippines, Russia, Singapore, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Thailand, United Kingdom.

Citizens from other countries and regions may also obtain an e-visa of Vietnam, which is valid for 90 days and allows multiple entries, so you can freely explore Vietnam without worrying about visa extensions. However, if you are staying longer than 90 days, you might still have to apply for a traditional visa.

The Hanoi Opera House is one of the largest theatres in Vietnam.

E-Visa is Highly Recommended for Thailand Vietnam and Cambodia Tour

Now that you know whether you need a visa for Thailand, Vietnam, or Cambodia, if you do, we strongly recommend that you apply for an e-visa, which saves you time and hassle by not having to go to the embassy or consulate in person.

Vietnam e-visa is available to many nationalities and a similar process exists for Cambodia. Thailand mostly uses visa-free programs, but also has online visa applications for long-term stayers. Read more about how long it takes to travel to Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam.

A traditional visa may take longer, but the e-visa application process is considerably faster; it is very easy to track the status of your e-visa application, and your e-visa can be processed quickly and usually within a few days depending on the country. You also don't have to worry about whether your passport or other critical documents will get lost in the mail.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for Your Thailand Cambodia and Vietnam Visas

Now we have decided to apply for Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia visas via e-Visa, here is a step-by-step guide to the application process:

Step 1: Check the official website

Always start with the official site of the embassy or consulate of each country. Here you will find the most reliable and recent information.

Step 2: Prepare the necessary paperwork

You should have all the necessary documents in place when you apply. That usually requires your passport (which must be valid for at least six months), a digital passport photo, a copy of your flight itinerary and proof of accommodation (hotel reservation).

Step 3: Complete the application form online

Complete an application form about your personal information, passport number, travel itinerary, and so on. And you have to do it carefully and accurately. Make sure to double check everything before handing in!

Step 4: Pay the visa fee

Visa fees are different, so check the official website for the correct amount. You typically have to pay the fee online with a credit or debit card.

Step 5: Complete your application

Create a successful application, submit your application after completing the form and paying the fee. You will normally get a confirmation mail with your application number.

Step 6: Wait for processing

It takes longer or shorter depending on the country and the season. An e-visa typically takes around 3-5 working days to process, and it should be applied in advance, just in case.

Step 7: Receive your visa

After the application is approved, the e-visa will be sent to your email. Just print it out and take it with you when traveling. Click here to konw understand how to plan a visit to Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam.

Overlooking the main temple of Angkor Wat from Phnom Bakheng.

Costs of Thailand Vietnam and Cambodia Visas

Visa costs can vary by visa type, by nationality, and the place of application. Here are some general rules:

Thailand

Visas on arrival are about $30, but this may change at any time. Tourist visas go from $30 to $50. The online visa option may be more expensive for longer stays. Read more about how to apply for Thailand visa successfully.

Cambodia

Cambodia has very cheap visas on arrival and e-visas available, $30 for 30 days with a tourist visa. Read more about how to get Cambodia visa.

Vietnam

An e-visa for Vietnam generally runs between $25 and $50. The cost could be higher if you require a visa on arrival or a multiple-entry visa. Read more about how to easily obtain a Vietnam visa for your tour.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Visa Application for Thailand Cambodia and Vietnam

Here are some more tips to keep you away from visa stress when traveling to Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam:

Be prepared: Visa policies and fees may change, so remember to check a government website for updates or new requirements before you travel.

Apply early: Start the visa process early, since you will have more time to get all of the paperwork together and then finalize your application and wait for it to be processed.

Double-check: Be sure to double-check all the requirements for the type of visa you are applying for, your photo and your documents.

Complete the Forms Properly: Complete the forms thoroughly and truthfully, mistakes can slow the processing of your application.

Get copies: Make duplicates of all relevant documents - even your passport. This is useful in case you ever lose out on the original documents or ask to prove the visa status.

Enjoy the sun and sea at the best beaches in Koh Samui, Thailand.

Conclusion

By following the steps in this guide and keeping the practical facts in mind, you won't have any trouble getting tourist visas for Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia. Whether this is your first time traveling or you've been on the road many times before, some good planning will make your trip run smoothly.

Now that you have finally captured the visa, it is time to explore Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia for their beautiful nature, immense culture, and warm hospitality. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable trip!