Tourists planning a trip to Thailand must ensure they carry a minimum of 15,000 baht or RM1,992 in cash before embarking on their journey, as per statements by Dewi Lestari, the Minister Counsellor of the Indonesian Embassy in Bangkok, as reported by The Star.
Photo via Central Banking
This regulation, according to Lestari, applies universally to all foreign tourists intending to visit Thailand. The necessity for such cash reserves has become particularly apparent due to the influx of complaints received by the embassy concerning Indonesian travelers being denied entry into the country.
Despite some travelers finding this requirement surprising, it's not a recent imposition. Thai authorities have upheld this policy for approximately the past decade…
The Indonesian embassy has outlined a series of prerequisites that travelers must meet to gain entry into Thailand. These include presenting a valid passport with at least six months' validity, evidence of a return ticket, and proof of accommodation arrangements. Additionally, travelers must demonstrate financial capacity for the duration of their stay in Thailand by carrying sufficient cash with them.
Photo via VIE Hotel Bangkok
Though the exact amount isn't explicitly specified by Thai Immigration, Lestari, as quoted by Kosmo Daily, suggests solo travelers should carry 15,000 baht (RM1,992), while those traveling with families should have 20,000 baht (RM2,660) available.
Failure to adhere to these requirements could result in denial of entry, as it contravenes the Immigration Act B.E. 2522 (1979). Immigration officers have the authority to prevent tourists lacking the requisite funds from entering Thailand. Consequently, tourists are urged to comply with these regulations to ensure a smooth entry process.
Random checks by immigration officers, as reported by The Star, underscore the importance of travelers being prepared with the necessary cash reserves to meet Thailand's entry requirements.