Chinese travelling to Thailand can apply for Thai visas via a new online visa application service from 15 February onwards.

Thailand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) officially opened the new system on 25 January at the Royal Thai Embassy, Beijing. While the service will be initially available in the Chinese capital, it will be extended to other cities from 1 March.

To Thai e-visa applicants, follow these three steps:

Step 1: Applicants can complete the application form at www.thaievisa.go.th and choose their preferred date and time via the system to submit their travel documents to their local Thai embassies and consulates.

Step 2: Applicants can pay the required visa fees through a secure e-payment system then submit their application online, anywhere and anytime.

Step 3: Applicants submit their travel documents, in person, at their local Thai embassies and consulates per the chosen date and time for official approval and to receive a Thai visa sticker affixed to the passport.

The online visa will automate and speed up the visa application process globally and will help facilitate sustainable growth for Thailand’s tourism, according to the MFA.

Following the launch in China, the MFA is planning to expand the Thai e-visa service in phases to other countries worldwide in three years.