What’s it like applying for a Thai visa in Kuala Lumpur? It’s not so bad, all things considered. Look, applying for any type of visa at a Thai embassy or consulate is not a fun experience. It is impossible to find uniform information on what you need and what you should expect.
However, applying for a Thai visa in Kuala Lumpur is not a bad option. There is a good amount of structure to the process, limiting the potential for surprises. If you come prepared with all your documents, you will leave with a sticker in your passport. And if you fail to do this, well, your experience is going to be bad.
Here is what you should know about the visa application process in Kuala Lumpur.
Related: Where should you stay in Kuala Lumpur?
Applying for a Thai visa in Kuala Lumpur
Step 1: Make an appointment online
You can’t show up to the Thai embassy in Kuala Lumpur and apply for a visa. Everyone is now required to book an appointment online, which you can do here. You can make a reservation up to 14 days in advance. More importantly, don’t wait until the last minute as slots tend to book up fast.
Once that is done, you will receive a text message with a link to a QR code that you will be required to present to security upon your arrival at the embassy.
Step 2: Prepare your documents
Before you go, print off the application pack on the embassy’s website for the respective visa you are applying for. This contains the visa application as well as a checklist of required documents you will need to present when applying.
This should be done before you arrive. There are no hard copies or printing services available on-site. If you do not have something, you’ll be told to leave and come back when it’s in your possession.
Related: What documents do you need for a Thailand marriage visa?
Step 3: Go to the embassy
On the day of your appointment, head to the Thai embassy in Kuala Lumpur. It’s recommended you arrive 20 minutes early.
It is pretty easy to get there using public transit. Take the LRT Red Line to Ampang Park. You will want to exit Intermark Mall and walk down Jalan Ampang on the left side of the street. It takes about 15 minutes to get to the Embassy from the station.
Step 4: Apply
Once you’re at the embassy and have shown security your QR code, you wait inside for your name to be called. On my trip, I had a scheduled appointment time of 10:30 am and was called at 10:36 am. Not bad at all.
Step 5: Wait
After you have applied, you will be given a receipt which you must keep. You can pick up your passport on the next business day after 2:30 pm.
Step 6: Pickup your passport
Go back to the Thai embassy with your receipt and collect your passport. They begin handing them out at 2:30 pm and will stay open until 4:00 pm. If you don’t get it by then, you’ll be required to come back the following day. No appointment is needed for this step.
Final thoughts
Applying for a Thai visa in Kuala Lumpur is surprisingly easy if you can follow directions. Everything you need can be found online so there is no excuse not to be prepared. Those who are prepared will get in and get out in no time at all.
Of course, there were plenty of folks who were not prepared when I applied. This does tend to gum up the works and slow things down. Please note, you will never win a fight with bureaucracy in a Thailand embassy so don’t waste your breath.
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