I had to scramble to gather the necessary bank statements for my visa application. It's an added step, but understandable from the government's perspective. Just be prepared with your documents.

This requirement might deter some budget travelers. It's essential to plan ahead and ensure all financial documents are in order to avoid any hiccups.

As of May 2025, anyone applying for a tourist visa to Thailand now needs to show proof of sufficient funds. The rule is back in effect after being paused for a while. To qualify, applicants must show they’ve got at least 20,000 baht (around $550 USD) available — usually proven through a recent bank statement or a letter from a financial sponsor. Thai authorities say this is to make sure visitors aren’t arriving broke and can cover their own costs while in the country.