How to Apply for an Indian Tourist Visa in Chiang Mai, Thailand: Step-by-Step Guide
For years, we've planned a trip to India. Spotting unbeatable flight deals, we booked immediately—only to learn Malaysian residents are the only ones eligible to apply for Indian visas there. Fortunately, returning to Thailand opened the door, and we could handle it right in Chiang Mai, skipping a Bangkok detour. Here's our detailed, firsthand guide to applying for an Indian visa at the Chiang Mai consulate.
How to Apply for an Indian Tourist Visa in Chiang Mai
Location of the Indian Consulate in Chiang Mai
The Indian High Commission in Chiang Mai resembles a private residence in a quiet soi near the city's railway station. Note: Google Maps may still show the old address.
Current Address:
33/1, Thung Hotel Road
Wat Kate, Muang,
Chiang Mai 50000
Hours: Monday to Friday, 9am–12pm (closed on Thai and Indian holidays—check ahead).
Getting to the Indian Consulate
Grab a songthaew or tuk-tuk from anywhere in Chiang Mai. Drivers may know Thung Hotel Road or spot the white sign with black lettering. Otherwise, head to the railway station—it's a 15-minute walk. Rent a bicycle for a 25-minute ride from the Old City, or walk in about an hour.
Click to enlarge the map
Required Documents for Indian Visa Application
***Update: April 2012***
You must now apply online first via the official Indian Visa website, print the form, and bring it to the consulate. No walk-ins without this.
Required documents:
1. Essentials:
• Passport (valid 6+ months).
• Two passport photos.
• Passport copy.
2. Additional Items:
• Copy of your Thai visa (or 30-day airport/15-day land border stamp + departure card).
• Two Indian references (e.g., hotels with addresses and phone numbers—no lookups on-site).
• Your Chiang Mai address (guesthouse/hotel name and address).
• Planned India arrival date (visa valid 3 months from issuance).
• Cash in Thai Baht for fees.
Include a copy of your Thai departure card.
Chiang Mai vs. Bangkok: Where to Apply?
For stays over 3 months or 10-year tourist visas, apply in Bangkok (online form here). For 3-month visas, Chiang Mai is simpler: smaller, relaxed, and efficient.
Indian Visa Costs
Two fees: processing (paid on submission) and visa (paid on pickup, if approved).
Processing Fee: 400 THB (~$13); 1,400 THB (~$45) for US citizens; free for Thais.
Visa Fee: 1,770 THB (~$58) for all.
***Update: September 2012***
Total upfront: 2,170 THB (3,140 THB for US citizens). Cash only—no cards. Nearest ATM: 15-minute walk.
Processing Time and Application Process
Straightforward and common for non-residents. The consulate is rarely crowded. Remove shoes, enter. Staff verifies documents, provides forms and pen. Complete, submit with passport, pay processing fee. Receive receipt and pickup date (usually 7 days).
Return with receipt. Wait if needed, pay visa fee, collect passport. Visa: 3 months from issuance (e.g., pickup Sept 15 = valid to Dec 15).
Note: Validity starts at issuance, not entry. Always verify latest requirements on official sites, as processes evolve.
