Travel Documents

Passports

Passports are essential if you plan to travel outside of your home country, especially if you itinerary includes travel by air. You will not be allowed to board your flight if you do not have an up-to-date passport. Don't forget to check the expiration dates of the passport for each family member. The passports need to be valid for at least six months beyond the date of your Thailand family vacation.

US citizens can apply for a new passport or renew their passport at over 9,000 facilities nationwide. Persons 16 years and older will be charged $100, while persons under 16 will need to submit $85 with their application. Normal processing time is 4-6 weeks after the application is received. Expedited service, processing time is three weeks, can be requested for an additional fee of $60 per passport.

If you forget to apply for or renew your passport until the last minute, you can receive faster service from Rushmypassport dot com. They are approved by the US government to expedite your passports in as little as 24 hours.

Visas

Tourists to Thailand who stay for fewer than 30 days do not require a visa, but must possess a passport and may be asked to show an onward/return ticket. Effective October 1, 2006, persons entering Thailand without a visa will be allowed to stay in Thailand for 30 days per visit. The total duration of stay in Thailand for persons who enter Thailand without a visa cannot exceed 90 days during any six-month period, counting from the date of first entry.

If your family plans to stay in Thailand for more than 30 days, then it may be better to request a two month tourist visa from your local Thai embassy. There are Thai embassies in Washington DC, New York City, Los Angeles and Chicago.

Health Issues

I recommend you visit your family doctor or a travel health clinic at least 2 months before your depature for Thailand. The Hep A vaccination is recommended for all travelers to Thailand. Your family physician may have other recommendations depending on your personal health history and your actual travel plans.

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