If you’re thinking of staying in Thailand for a while, or you’re a digital nomad, you might be wondering about the cheapest way to show proof of onward travel (POOT). Well, whether you’re applying for a visa or just visiting Thailand under the Tourist Visa Exemption Scheme, the Thai Immigration Authorities will ask to see your onward journey plans. They ask for this proof just to make sure that you have a plan to leave Thailand according to your itinerary.
Also Read: 5 Quietest Escapes in Thailand for a Relaxing Getaway.
Do you need an onward Ticket to Enter Thailand?
In short, Yes. To enter Thailand you will need an onward ticket if you are on a tourist Visa. Thailand requires proof of onward travel and the official rule is for immigration to check the return ticket upon entry at the airport, land or sea port.
There are plenty of ways to show proof of onward travel, but I’m going to share with you the most reliable and cheapest method. Sure, there might be cheaper options out there, but this one is the safest compared to other low-cost alternatives.
Is Proof of Onward Travel Required for Passport Holders under Thailand’s Tourist Visa Exemption Scheme?
You need to provide proof of onward travel to comply with Thailand’s visa requirements (Source). For a list of countries eligible for visa exemptions, visit the official website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand (mfa.go.th). Under the ‘Tourist Visa Exemption Scheme,’ passport holders from these countries can stay for up to 30 days. However, they must also show proof of an onward flight from Thailand to another country.
Here is a screenshot from the official webpage of the Royal Thai Embassy, London. It clearly states: “Travel booking confirmation must be provided upon submission of your visa application. This includes flight details showing applicant’s name, departure date, all flights en route from UK/Ireland/UK territories to Thailand and onward flight to another destination.“
So, if you do not have an onward travel ticket, you may not be permitted entry at immigration until you have booked your return journey ticket.
Does Thai Border Immigration Ask for Proof of Your Onward Ticket?
During both of my visits to Thailand in 2019 and 2024, I wasn’t asked to show any proof of onward travel. In 2019, I was traveling under the Visa on Arrival (VoA) scheme, and in 2024 under the Tourist Visa Exemption Scheme.
I didn’t apply for a visa before my visits, so I don’t have firsthand experience with the visa application process for Thailand. However, I’ve heard from many travellers that proof of onward travel is essential when submitting your visa application. This requirement is also mentioned on the Thai Embassy’s official website (thaiembassy.org).
Although Thai border immigration seldom asks for an onward ticket, it’s risky not to have one. While many passengers manage to travel without an onward journey ticket, but do you really want to roll the dice?
We met a tourist couple at the airport who shared their experience with Thai Immigration. They were asked to show proof of onward travel, and the officials even verified the booking number to ensure it was legitimate.
So, to keep your stress levels in check and avoid any airport drama, it’s a good idea to book onward journey ticket. After all, they totally have the right to ask for it!
Do Airlines Ask for Proof of Onward Travel at Check-in Counters?
During check-in in your home country, you may run into trouble if you don’t show an onward travel ticket. The airline may deny you boarding if you don’t have a flight out of Thailand.
While checking the FAQ page of Thai Airways, it clearly stated that for international flights, “A return ticket or proof of onward travel must be presented at check-in.“
Airlines are strict about onward travel proof because if immigration denies you entry for not having an exit ticket, the airline is responsible for covering the cost to send you back. So, they don’t take a chance.
It’s not just Thai Airways; many airlines require an onward travel ticket for check-in. If you haven’t booked one, you might need to purchase an onward or return ticket at the airport, often at a hefty fee.
Is a Returnable Flight Ticket Worth It?
A returnable flight ticket is a good option because you can cancel it at any time and get almost a full refund. But it might cost you more if you stick to your itinerary. For example, a one-way refundable ticket from Bangkok Suvarnabhumi International Airport (BKK) to John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) could cost around $700.
Keep in mind, though, there might be restrictions on how and when you can claim a refund. Airlines generally have their own terms and conditions, and refunds aren’t always guaranteed.
What’s the Cheapest Way to Book an Onward Travel Ticket for Proof to Thai Authorities?
The cheapest proof of onward travel for entry into Thailand is to book tickets to nearby countries. One-way tickets from Thailand to neighbouring countries typically cost around $40 to $50. If you book way ahead, you might snag fares for as low as $30.
Here are some Southeast Asian (SEA) countries where you can find affordable one-way flights from Thailand:
- 🇸🇬 Singapore
- 🇲🇾 Malaysia
- 🇻🇳 Vietnam
- 🇰🇭 Cambodia
- 🇱🇦 Laos
- 🇲🇲 Myanmar
- 🇮🇩 Indonesia
You’ll likely find the cheapest prices to any of these countries. Once you’ve booked, you can cancel anytime if you decide to extend your stay in Thailand. Just make sure to comply with Thai visa regulations.
Are Bus and Train Tickets Accepted as Proof of Onward Journey?
Some travelers have suggested that you can use a bus, boat, or train ticket to neighboring countries as proof of onward travel out of Thailand. While I’m not sure if this always works, a confirmed flight ticket is definitely a safe bet.
💡 According to the London Thai Embassy’s official website, on their ‘VISA: General Information‘ page published on December 29, 2023, it states, “Foreigners entering Thailand by any means under the Visa Exemption scheme are required at the port of entry to have proof of planned travel (confirmed air, train, bus, or boat tickets) to leave Thailand within 30 days of the arrival date. Otherwise, a visa must be obtained before entering Thailand.“
In my research for this article, I looked for cheap bus tickets to Cambodia from Bangkok on the 12go.asia website. Although there are many bus services available, the majority cost more than $25.
Moreover, these tickets are non-refundable and non-cancellable. Some airlines, like Thai AirAsia, are strict about onward travel proof and accept only air tickets during check-in.
So, why take a chance when you can get confirmed flight tickets for about the same price, hassle-free?
Should I use Dummy Return Tickets or rent Ticket Confirmations?
There are many dummy ticket services that offer rental confirmations. Personally, I’m not a fan of these services because they could lead to your personal information being stolen, or you might even get caught by Thai immigration officers for using fake PNR as they need ‘Confirmed and Genuine Onward Travel Ticket‘, resulting in rejected visas or denied entry.
A dummy ticket can cost between $10 and $30. Often, these ticket rental services use fake PNRs to generate travel confirmations.
What Happens If You Don’t Have an Onward Travel Ticket
Thai Immigration generally enforces this rule to prevent illegal overstays. If you’re asked by Immigration to show proof of onward travel (POOT) and fail to provide it, the authorities may ask you several questions about your trip, such as:
- How many days do you plan to stay?
- What is the purpose of your visit?
- Can you provide proof of accommodation in Thailand?
- Which places in Thailand are you planning to visit?
If they find your answers satisfactory and deem your stay legitimate, they may allow you entry. However, if they suspect otherwise, your entry could be denied.
In such situations, your best quick fix is to grab a refundable ticket.
That said, in some cases, you might get lucky if they don’t ask for proof at all.
My recommendation:
Although I’ve shared some cheap and effective ways to provide proof of onward travel for a Royal Thai Visa, I personally recommend planning your journey in advance, unless you’re a digital nomad. Digital nomads often plan for longer stays in Thailand due to the low cost of living in places like Chiang Mai compared to other destinations, and their plans may change last minute.
If you’re traveling as a couple, with family, or with children, I advise you to plan your travel well in advance and book a return ticket that allows for date changes at a nominal fee. This approach saves some cash and avoid any awkward moments with proof of your return journey when you’re off to Thailand.
Got more questions about onward travel? Drop them in the comments below.
If you’re interested in more travel tips, don’t miss my blog on Koh Phangan Travel Guide.
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