Most people think of Thailand as a holiday paradise only. No! It’s also one of the world’s top destinations for specialized medical treatment. The country has world-class hospitals with expert doctors and surprisingly affordable treatment costs. It’s no surprise that thousands of Bangladeshis are flying to Thailand every year for better and specialized care.
But before boarding that plane, there’s something extremely important to get right. Your medical visa! One missing paper or one incorrect date may delay or deny your trip. So let’s break down everything you’ll need to get a Thailand medical visa through this guide.
What is a Thailand Medical Visa?
Thailand gives a Non-Immigrant Visa “O” or “B” specifically for people traveling for medical issues. You can enter Thailand legally for diagnosis or treatment as well as follow-up care with this visa. Your caregiver or companion can also apply for a visa alongside you in most cases.
Key points:
- Valid for 90 days (can be extended with proof from the hospital)
- Must have an official appointment or treatment letter from a Thai hospital
- Visa type may vary slightly depending on treatment length and companion details
Quick Medical Visa Document Checklist
Here’s your fast-track list before we dive into the details:
- Valid Bangladeshi passport (6+ months)
- Completed visa application form (TM 87)
- Recent passport-sized photos
- Appointment letter from a Thai hospital
- Bank statement (last 6 months)
- Cover letter (from patient or guardian)
- Confirmed return air ticket
- Hotel or hospital accommodation proof
- Travel insurance (not mandatory but recommended)
- Supporting documents (sponsor info and marriage certificate if needed)
Let’s break each down so you don’t miss a beat.
1. Your Passport – First and Foremost
Your Bangladeshi passport is your entry key. Make sure:
- It’s valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel date
- It has at least two blank pages
- If it’s close to expiry, renew it before applying
Pro Tip: Photocopy your passport’s information page and any previously issued Thai visas. They may ask for it.
2. Appointment or Medical Invitation Letter from a Thai Hospital
This is the most important document for your medical visa.
What must it include?
- Printed on official hospital letterhead
- Clearly mention your
- Full name
- Passport number and
- Reason for visit
- Add your
- Appointment date
- Doctor’s name and
- Duration of treatment
- Hospital contact details
Popular hospitals like Bumrungrad International, Samitivej, Bangkok Hospital, and BDMS offer medical visa support letters if you request.
3. Bank Statement – Show You Can Afford the Trip
You’ll need to prove that you can cover:
- Treatment cost
- Airfare
- Accommodation
- Other expenses during your stay
Submit a 6-month bank statement (original + signed by the bank)
Recommended balance: ৳150,000–৳200,000+
If someone else is sponsoring your trip, include their:
- Bank statement
- NID/passport copy
- Sponsorship letter (mentioning their relationship with you)
4. Visa Application Form (TM 87)
You can download it from the official Thai Embassy website or collect it in person. Fill in:
- Personal details
- Passport info
- Travel dates
- Hospital address in Thailand
Pro Tip: Fill it neatly and honestly. Mismatched info can lead to delays.
5. Recent Passport-Sized Photos
Specifications:
- Two-color photographs
- White background
- The size of the photos will be 3.5 cm × 4.5 cm
- Photos should be recent or taken within the last 6 months
Don’t wear
- hats
- sunglasses or
- overly flashy attire.
Bonus Tip: Keep 4–5 extra copies for hospital ID or visa re-application. Just in case!
6. Cover Letter – Written by You (or Your Guardian)
This letter is your personal note to the Thai Embassy explaining:
- Who you are
- Why are you traveling (type of treatment)
- Where and how long will you stay
- Who’s paying for the trip
If you’re under 18 or elderly, include a guardian’s letter and ID as well.
7. Confirmed Return Air Ticket
Even if you plan to change the return date later, they want to see:
- A confirmed ticket itinerary
- Departure and return dates that align with your medical appointment
You don’t always need to pay in full. But confirm the booking with the travel agency and ask for a printable copy.
8. Accommodation Booking or Hospital Stay Proof
Tell them where you’ll stay during your trip:
- Booked hotel confirmation email or invoice
- OR official hospital letter stating that you’ll be admitted to/inpatient
If a friend or relative is hosting you in Thailand, attach:
- Their invitation letter
- Their passport copy and address proof
9. COVID-19 Requirements (If Applicable)
Though rules are now relaxed, it’s best to carry:
- Vaccination certificate (WHO-approved)
- A recent RT-PCR report, if asked
- Travel health insurance. And it must include COVID-19 treatment
Tip: Save a soft copy of these papers on your phone. They’ll be helpful for easy access at the airport.
Extra Supporting Documents You Might Need
Every case is different. You might also need:
- Marriage certificate (if your spouse is traveling with you)
- Birth certificate or school ID (if a child is the patient)
- Old Thai visas (if you visited before)
- Employer’s letter. If you’re employed (for leave proof)
Organize all documents in a transparent folder. Arrange them labeled and ordered.
Learn More: Budgeting Your Medical Journey from Dhaka to Bumrungrad
Common Mistakes That Lead to Rejection
Small issues may cost you your visa. Avoid:
- Missing or outdated bank statements
- Appointment letter errors (wrong name, missing signature)
- Incorrect travel dates
- Photo size mismatch
- Unclear sponsor documents
Take your time and check everything again. Be sure!
Once Approved: Your Visa and What Comes Next
If approved, you’ll get:
- A visa sticker on your passport
- Valid for 90 days with single or multiple entries (depending on type)
- Carry all your documents when flying. Thai Immigration may ask again
At the airport, have your
- Appointment letter
- Hotel booking and
- Return ticket handy
Should You Use a Visa Support Agency Like Thaimedi Xpress?
If you don’t have time to handle everything yourself or want peace of mind, using an experienced medical travel agency like Thai Medi Xpress might help. They can:
- Schedule hospital appointments
- Provide official invitation letters
- Help with paperwork and translations
- Track your application status
However, always check if they’re authorized and transparent about costs.
Make Health Your Priority! Not Paperwork
Going abroad for treatment can feel frustrating. But don’t be afraid of the paperwork. Your visa process will be quick and smooth with this checklist and a little prep.
Take good care of your documents early and stay organized. Focus on what genuinely matters. Your health and healing journey in Thailand!