United Kingdom Tourist Visa
Standard Visitor Visa · For Thailand citizens
Planning a trip to the United Kingdom as a Thai citizen? You will need a Standard Visitor visa, which costs GBP 127 and takes approximately 3 weeks to process. Apply online and visit a VFS Global center for biometrics. This guide covers all requirements for a successful UK visa application from Thailand.
UK Tourist Visa for Thai Citizens (2025) - Document Checklist
For Thailand citizens · VisaBeat.com
Document Checklist
Your Thai passport must be valid for the duration of your stay
Complete the online application on GOV.UK
Fingerprints and photograph at VFS Global
Proof of sufficient funds for your trip
Where you will stay in the UK
Evidence you will return to Thailand
Application Process
Thai citizens must apply online for a UK Standard Visitor visa.1
1. Complete Online Application
Visit GOV.UK and complete the online visa application.1 Answer all questions accurately about:
- Personal details
- Travel history
- Employment and finances
- Purpose of visit
- UK contacts
2. Pay the Visa Fee
Pay GBP 127 online using a credit or debit card.1
3. Book Biometrics Appointment
Schedule an appointment at a VFS Global center in Thailand.2
4. Attend VFS Appointment
Visit the VFS Global center with:2
- Printed application form
- Passport
- Supporting documents
- Appointment confirmation
Provide fingerprints and photograph.
5. Submit Documents
Submit your passport and all supporting documents at the VFS center.2
6. Wait for Decision
Processing typically takes 3 weeks.1 Track your application online.
7. Collect Passport
Collect your passport from VFS or opt for courier delivery.
Fees
| Visa Type | Fee (GBP) | Fee (THB approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Visitor (6 months) | 127 | 5,600 |
| Long-term (2 years) | 508 | 22,400 |
| Long-term (5 years) | 938 | 41,400 |
| Long-term (10 years) | 1,180 | 52,100 |
Additional fees apply for priority services.1
What You Need to Prove
UK immigration assesses applications based on:1
- Genuine visitor: Legitimate reason for visiting the UK
- Financial capability: Funds to support yourself without working
- Accommodation: Where you will stay in the UK
- Ties to Thailand: Strong reasons to return home
- Intent to leave: Will depart UK before visa expires
- Immigration history: Compliance with previous visas
Processing Times
| Service Type | Processing Time | Additional Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | 3 weeks | Included |
| Priority | 5 working days | ~GBP 250 |
| Super Priority | 24 hours | ~GBP 900 |
Check VFS Global for current priority service availability.2
VFS Global Centers in Thailand
| Location | Address |
|---|---|
| Bangkok | The Trendy Building, Sukhumvit Soi 13 |
| Chiang Mai | Airport Business Park |
| Phuket | Available by appointment |
Book appointments online through VFS Global Thailand.2
After Your Visa is Approved
Once approved:
- Collect passport with visa vignette
- Check validity dates and entries allowed
- Print accommodation and return flight details
- At UK border, present passport and be prepared to answer questions
- Immigration officer makes final entry decision
If Your Visa is Refused
If your application is rejected:
- Review the refusal letter: Understand specific reasons
- Consider Administrative Review: If eligible
- Address issues: Gather stronger documentation
- Reapply: Submit a new application with improvements
Most refusals are due to financial or ties-to-home-country issues.1
Common Rejection Reasons
Based on official refusal data for this corridor
Insufficient Financial Evidence
Unable to demonstrate adequate funds for the trip without working illegally.
How to avoid: Provide 6 months of bank statements showing regular income and sufficient savings. Avoid large unexplained deposits.
Weak Ties to Thailand
Unable to demonstrate compelling reasons to return to Thailand.
How to avoid: Include employment letter with tenure and salary, property documents, family certificates, business interests.
Inadequate Travel History
Limited or no previous international travel experience.
How to avoid: Build travel history with nearby countries first. Include all previous visas and travel stamps.
Incomplete Application
Missing documents or inconsistent information.
How to avoid: Double-check all required documents. Ensure information is consistent across all submissions.
Unclear Travel Purpose
Vague travel plans or unconvincing reason for visit.
How to avoid: Provide detailed itinerary. If visiting someone, include invitation letter with their UK status proof.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Thai citizens need a visa for the UK?
Yes, Thai citizens need a Standard Visitor visa to enter the UK. There is no visa-free or e-visa option for Thai passport holders.
How much does a UK visa cost for Thai citizens?
The Standard Visitor visa costs GBP 127 (approximately 5,600 THB). Long-term visas cost GBP 508 (2-year) or GBP 938 (5-year).
How long does UK visa processing take for Thai citizens?
Standard processing takes approximately 3 weeks. Priority service (5 days) and super priority service (24 hours) are available for additional fees.
How long can Thai citizens stay in the UK on a tourist visa?
The Standard Visitor visa allows stays of up to 6 months per visit. You cannot live in the UK on this visa.
Where do I apply for UK visa from Thailand?
Apply online at GOV.UK, then visit a VFS Global center in Bangkok or other cities in Thailand for biometrics.
What is the UK visa approval rate for Thai citizens?
The approval rate is approximately 78% for Thai applicants with complete documentation.
Can I work on a UK tourist visa?
No, the Standard Visitor visa does not permit work. You can attend meetings and conferences but not take employment.
Do I need travel insurance for UK visa?
Travel insurance is not mandatory but highly recommended. The UK has expensive healthcare for visitors.