Thai visas for travellers from China & India
China and India send some of the largest numbers of visitors to Thailand, for tourism, business, study and family events such as weddings. Visa-free and visa-on-arrival arrangements for these passports have changed several times, so the first step is always checking the current rule for your passport and trip length.
Last reviewed 26 September 2026 · Entry rules change; confirm on thaievisa.go.th.
Short answer
China and India send some of the largest numbers of visitors to Thailand, for tourism, business, study and family events such as weddings. Visa-free and visa-on-arrival arrangements for these passports have changed several times, so the first step is always checking the current rule for your passport and trip length. Rules can change, so confirm the current route with Thai e-Visa, the responsible Thai mission or the receiving authority before travel or work.
Common situations
Tourism and group travel
Short holidays may qualify for visa-free entry or a tourist visa depending on the current policy. Travellers planning longer or repeated trips should apply for a tourist visa in advance for certainty.
Business visits and trade fairs
Meetings, exhibitions and contract negotiations sit under business entry. Actually working for a Thai company requires Non-Immigrant B and a work permit.
Students
Students accepted by Thai universities, language schools or training centres apply for Non-Immigrant ED with the school's acceptance documents.
Destination weddings and film crews
Large wedding groups and media crews should check whether their activity needs a specific visa or permit — media work usually needs Non-Immigrant M.
Document notes
- Bank statements, employment letters and invitation letters in Chinese or Hindi generally need an English translation.
- Business visitors should carry an invitation letter from the Thai company describing the purpose and dates.
- Company documents from Thailand used for Non-B applications are usually in Thai and may need English translation.
Mistakes we see most
- Assuming a past visa-free rule still applies
- Doing paid work on a tourist or business-visit entry
- Unclear hotel or itinerary evidence for tourist visas
Visa types to read next
Frequently asked questions
Can Indian passport holders get a visa on arrival in Thailand?
India has been on the visa-on-arrival list and, at times, on the visa-free list. The arrangement changes, so confirm the current rule on the official e-Visa site before travelling.
Is a Chinese business visitor allowed to sign contracts in Thailand?
Attending meetings and negotiating are generally treated as business visits. Ongoing work or receiving a Thai salary needs Non-B and a work permit.
Official starting points
These links are starting points, not proof of the requirements for every passport or case. Also check the Thai mission responsible for your place of residence and the office receiving your documents.
Other nationality guides
Get your case reviewed before you apply
Offices in Bangkok and Khon Kaen, serving clients across Thailand. No approval outcome is guaranteed.