Visa | Duration | |
---|---|---|
60 Day Visa Exemption is NOT available for American Samoan citizens |
60
30 days Extension
|
|
15 Day Visa on Arrival is NOT available for American Samoan citizens |
15 days
no Extension
|
|
Tourist Visa is Available for American Samoa |
60 days
30 days Extension
|
|
Destination Thailand Visa is Available for American Samoa |
6 months
6 months Extension
|
|
Retirement Visa is Available for American Samoa |
1 year
1 year Extension
|
|
Retirement Visa 10 Year is Available for American Samoa |
5 year
5 year Extension
|
|
Education Visa is Available for American Samoa |
varied
varied Extension
|
|
Business/Work Visa is Available for American Samoa |
1 year
1 year Extension
|
|
Marriage Visa is Available for American Samoa |
1 year
1 year Extension
|
|
Family Visa is Available for American Samoa |
3 Months - 1 Year
varied Extension
|
|
Privilege/Elite Visa is Available for American Samoa |
5/10/20 years
varied Extension
|
|
LTR Visa is Available for American Samoa |
5 years
5 years Extension
|
Show financial proof to stay in Thailand. Show exit flight from Thailand. Show hotel or other accomodation address in Thailand.
Show financial proof to stay in Thailand. Show return flight out of Thailand. Apply for visa at the airport or before coming to Thailand.
Show financial proof to stay in Thailand. Must have return ticket to show exit in Thailand. Must show address of hotel, friends, family in Thailand.
Show financial proof to stay in Thailand. For Muay Thai, Digital Nomads, Freelancers - More information coming soon.
Financial evidence of 800,000 THB in the bank, or verifiable history of 65,000 THB per month. Medical certificate from your country. Health Insurance from your country. Criminal record clearance from your country.
Financial evidence of 3,000,000 THB in the bank. Can be partial deposit and annual income. Medical certificate from your country. Health Insurance. Criminal record clearance from your country.
Apply and pay for a school in Thailand that offers education visas. Can be any recognized University, Muay Thai academy, Thai Massage school or Thai Cooking school. Terms of study can be 3 months to 5 years. Visa is renewable after each term/semester/course in the school.
A company should offer you a job in Thailand. Or you can register your own company and start your own business in Thailand. Once you have the company sponsorship you can apply for a work per permit and NON-B (Non-Immigrant Business) visa.
Married to a Thai citizen. Must show marriage certificate
You must be visiting family in Thailand OR if you have a long term visa in Thailand then your family can visit you. Family must be spouse or children less than 20 years old. Should show documents indicating relationship such as marriage, birth or adoption certificate.
No overstay in Thailand in the past. From accepted country. Clean criminal record in your country. Membership fee 900,000 THB to 5 Million THB.
There are 5 categories of LTR Visa applicants. Wealthy individuals, Retirees, Remote workers, Professionals and Family. You need your passport, photograph, location document and approval letter from Thailand Board of Investment (BOI). Please contact us for more details.
Population and Size of Country
Thailand has a significantly larger population compared to American Samoa. As of the latest data, Thailandās population exceeds 69 million people, whereas American Samoa has a population of around 55,000. In terms of land area, Thailand covers approximately 513,120 square kilometers, making it substantially larger than American Samoa, which spans only about 199 square kilometers.
Ethnicity
Thailand is ethnically diverse but predominantly Thai, with significant minorities including Chinese, Malay, and various hill tribes. American Samoaās population is predominantly Samoan, with smaller numbers of individuals of Tongan, Filipino, and other Pacific Islander descent.
Religion
Buddhism is the dominant religion in Thailand, practiced by about 95% of the population. There are also small communities of Muslims, Christians, and Hindus. In contrast, Christianity is the major religion in American Samoa, with the majority of the population adhering to various Christian denominations, primarily Congregational Christian Church.
GDP
Thailand has a much larger and more diversified economy with a GDP of approximately $543 billion USD. The economy is driven by sectors such as manufacturing, agriculture, and tourism. American Samoaās economy is much smaller, with a GDP around $634 million USD, primarily supported by tuna canning and government services.
Population Age Brackets
Thailand has an aging population with a median age of around 40 years. The age distribution shows a significant proportion of the population in the working-age bracket (15-64 years). American Samoa has a younger demographic profile with a median age of about 24 years and a considerable portion of its population under the age of 15.
Men vs Women
In Thailand, the gender ratio is relatively balanced, though slightly skewed with more women than men. In American Samoa, there is also a fairly balanced gender ratio, but with a slight male predominance.
Source of Popular Types of Income
In Thailand, popular sources of income include agriculture (rice, rubber), manufacturing (electronics, automobiles), and tourism. American Samoaās economy is heavily reliant on tuna canning and processing, along with federal aid and remittances from Samoans living abroad.
Thailand generally experiences lower levels of violent crime compared to many Western countries, including the United States. While violent incidents do occur, they are relatively rare and typically not targeted towards tourists. Travelers from American Samoa will find that violent crime is less of a concern in most tourist areas. However, itās always wise to exercise caution and avoid risky areas, especially late at night.
Petty crimes such as pickpocketing and bag snatching are more common, particularly in crowded places like markets, public transportation, and tourist hotspots. Tourists should be vigilant with their belongings and avoid displaying valuable items openly. Using anti-theft bags and keeping personal items secure can help mitigate these risks.
Crimes of passion, often involving personal relationships, do occur but are not typically directed at tourists. These incidents are usually confined to local disputes and rarely affect travelers. Nevertheless, itās advisable to be cautious in personal interactions and avoid conflicts.
Thailand is generally considered safe for solo women travelers. Many women travel alone without any issues, but itās always best to take standard precautions. Avoiding isolated areas at night, dressing modestly, and being aware of your surroundings can enhance your safety. Women should also be cautious when accepting drinks from strangers in bars or clubs to avoid potential drink spiking.
Walking around at night in well-populated and well-lit areas is generally safe in Thailand. However, like anywhere else, itās best to avoid poorly lit or secluded areas. Stick to main streets and areas frequented by other people. Using rideshare apps or taxis for late-night travel can also be a safer option.
Scams targeting tourists are relatively common in Thailand. Common scams include overpriced tuk-tuk rides, gem scams, and fake tour operators. Always use reputable service providers, verify prices beforehand, and be wary of deals that seem too good to be true. Itās also helpful to research common scams before your trip to better recognize and avoid them.
Travelers from American Samoa will find Thailand to be a generally safe destination if they remain vigilant and take standard safety precautions.
American Samoa and Thailand both boast rich culinary traditions that emphasize fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Travelers from American Samoa will find some familiar elements in Thai cuisine, such as the use of coconut milk, seafood, and tropical fruits, but will also encounter distinct differences that make Thai food a unique experience.
In American Samoan cuisine, coconut is a staple ingredient used in dishes like palusami (taro leaves baked in coconut cream) and oka (raw fish marinated in coconut milk). Similarly, Thai cuisine frequently incorporates coconut milk in dishes like Tom Kha Gai (chicken coconut soup) and Green Curry. The creamy texture and sweetness of coconut milk provide a comforting similarity for travelers.
Seafood is another commonality. In American Samoa, fish and other seafood are often grilled or served raw in dishes like poke. In Thailand, travelers can enjoy a variety of seafood dishes such as Pla Pao (grilled fish stuffed with lemongrass) and Goong Ob Woon Sen (baked shrimp with glass noodles). The use of fresh herbs and spices in these dishes will provide a new yet somewhat familiar taste experience.
Tropical fruits are abundant in both regions. While American Samoa enjoys fruits like bananas, papayas, and mangoes, Thailand offers these along with exotic varieties such as durian, rambutan, and mangosteen. Thai markets are a great place to explore these tropical delights.
For those who enjoy a bit of heat, Thai cuisineās use of chilies will resonate with travelers accustomed to the spicy elements in Samoan dishes. However, Thai food often balances spiciness with sweetness, sourness, and saltiness. Dishes like Som Tum (spicy green papaya salad) and Pad Kra Pao (stir-fried basil with meat) showcase this balance perfectly.
Noodles and rice are also central to both cuisines. While American Samoa often features rice in dishes like sapasui (Samoan chop suey), Thai cuisine offers a wide array of noodle and rice dishes such as Pad Thai (stir-fried noodles) and Khao Pad (fried rice). These staples are often accompanied by a variety of proteins and vegetables, making them versatile and satisfying options.
In summary, travelers from American Samoa will find Thai cuisine both familiar and refreshingly different. The shared use of coconut milk, seafood, tropical fruits, and rice dishes provides a comforting link between the two culinary traditions, while the unique flavors and preparation methods of Thai food offer an exciting culinary adventure.
In Thailand, forming friendships often starts with a warm smile and a respectful greeting. The traditional Thai greeting, called the āwai,ā involves placing your hands together in a prayer-like gesture and bowing slightly. This shows respect and is a great way to make a positive first impression. Thais appreciate politeness and humility; loud or aggressive behavior may be seen as disrespectful. Small talk about food, family, and local customs can be a good way to break the ice.
Respect for elders and authority figures is deeply ingrained in Thai culture. Always show deference to older people and those in positions of authority. When visiting temples, dress modestly by covering your shoulders and knees, and remove your shoes before entering. Participating in local festivals and trying traditional Thai food are excellent ways to immerse yourself in the culture.
Avoid touching peopleās heads, as the head is considered the most sacred part of the body. Pointing your feet at people or religious objects is also seen as disrespectful. Public displays of affection are generally frowned upon, so itās best to keep them to a minimum. Refrain from raising your voice or showing overt anger, as maintaining composure is highly valued.
While American Samoan culture is known for its warmth and hospitality, itās important to tone down any habits that might be considered overly familiar or loud in Thailand. For example, boisterous laughter or speaking loudly in public places may be seen as impolite. Additionally, avoid interrupting others while they are speaking, as this can be perceived as disrespectful.
Always show respect by using polite language and gestures. When handing objects to someone, use both hands or your right hand with your left hand supporting your right arm. This shows respect and consideration. Be mindful of your body language; avoid crossing your arms or putting your hands on your hips when speaking to someone, as these can be perceived as confrontational.
Physical contact is generally less common in Thai culture compared to American Samoan culture. Avoid touching people unnecessarily, especially those of the opposite sex. A friendly pat on the back or shoulder may be acceptable among close friends but should be approached with caution.
When visiting temples or other religious sites, dress conservatively and behave respectfully. Remove your shoes before entering any sacred space. Avoid pointing at religious objects or touching statues of the Buddha. Photography may be restricted in some areas, so always ask for permission first.
Thais place a high value on appearance and cleanliness. Dress modestly and neatly, especially when visiting formal places like temples or government offices. Casual beachwear should be reserved for the beach and not worn in cities or towns.
Public transport etiquette in Thailand involves being quiet and considerate of others. Avoid talking loudly on your phone or playing music without headphones. Offer your seat to elderly passengers, monks, or pregnant women as a sign of respect.
In Thai culture, ālosing faceā refers to experiencing public embarrassment or shame, which can damage oneās social standing. To avoid causing someone to lose face, refrain from criticizing or arguing with them publicly. Conversely, āgaining faceā involves actions that increase oneās social standing, such as showing respect, being generous, or demonstrating competence. Compliments and acts of kindness can help you gain face and build positive relationships.
By understanding these cultural nuances, you can navigate social interactions in Thailand with greater ease and respect, making your visit more enjoyable and enriching.
Ensure your phone is unlocked for international use. Most modern smartphones should work in Thailand, but itās a good idea to check with your carrier. You can buy a local SIM card at the airport or convenience stores like 7-Eleven. AIS, TrueMove H, and DTAC are the major telecom providers.
Thailand has extensive 4G coverage and is rolling out 5G in many areas. Free Wi-Fi is available in most hotels, cafes, and restaurants. SIM cards with data plans are affordable and can be purchased at the airport or convenience stores.
LINE is the most popular messaging app in Thailand, followed by Facebook Messenger and WhatsApp. Download LINE before you arrive to stay connected with locals.
The official currency is the Thai Baht (THB). Itās advisable to carry some cash for small purchases, especially in rural areas.
ATMs are widely available. Most ATMs charge a fee of 200-220 THB per withdrawal for foreign cards. Notify your bank before traveling to avoid any issues.
Grab is the most reliable ride-hailing app in Thailand, similar to Uber. Itās widely used and offers various services like car rides, bike rides, and even deliveries.
Food delivery apps are very popular. GrabFood and Foodpanda are the leading services, offering a wide range of local and international cuisine.
Credit cards are accepted in most hotels, large restaurants, and shopping malls. However, smaller establishments and street vendors often only accept cash.
Major shopping destinations include Bangkokās Siam Paragon, MBK Center, and Chatuchak Weekend Market. Night markets are also popular for unique finds and souvenirs.
Thailandās train network is extensive and affordable. The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) operates most trains. For long-distance travel, booking in advance is recommended. The BTS Skytrain and MRT Subway are excellent for getting around Bangkok.
Local buses are an economical way to travel but can be confusing for non-Thai speakers. Routes and schedules are not always clearly marked, so itās best to ask locals or use Google Maps for guidance.
By following these tips, travelers from American Samoa can navigate Thailand efficiently and enjoy their stay.
Thai people are generally very welcoming and curious about foreigners, including men from American Samoa. Your unique background will likely be met with interest and curiosity. Being respectful and open about your culture will go a long way in building connections.
You can use humor to break the ice. For example, you might say, āIām from a place where coconuts are our best friends!ā or āIn American Samoa, we have more palm trees than people!ā These light-hearted comments can make your conversations more engaging.
Popular dating apps in Thailand include Tinder, Bumble, and ThaiFriendly. These platforms have a large user base and are widely accepted for both casual and serious dating.
Share interesting facts and stories about your culture. You can talk about traditional dances like the Siva, local foods such as taro and palusami, and unique customs. Sharing photos or short videos can make these explanations more vivid and engaging.
Thais appreciate cleanliness and good grooming. Dress neatly in casual but stylish clothes. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing. Good personal hygiene is crucial, so make sure you are well-groomed and presentable.
In Thailand, dating often involves more traditional values and family involvement. Public displays of affection are less common compared to Western cultures. Relationships may progress more slowly, with a focus on building trust and mutual respect.
Thai women tend to be more reserved initially but are very warm once they get to know you. They often value politeness, respect, and family ties. American Samoan women may be more direct and open in their communication style.
Bangkok has several well-known red light districts such as Patpong, Nana Plaza, and Soi Cowboy. These areas are known for their nightlife but should be approached with caution if youāre looking for genuine relationships.
Be aware that some profiles on dating apps may be linked to prostitution. If someone seems overly eager to meet up in private settings or asks for money, itās best to proceed with caution or avoid them altogether.
By keeping these tips in mind, you can navigate the dating scene in Thailand more effectively and respectfully. Enjoy your time exploring new relationships and learning about Thai culture!
Extending a Thai tourist visa or visa exemption is a straightforward process, but it requires careful attention to detail. Hereās a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the extension process:
Before you head to the immigration office, ensure you have the following documents ready:
Locate the nearest immigration office. Major cities like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket have immigration offices that handle visa extensions. Itās advisable to arrive early to avoid long queues.
Fill out the TM.7 application form with accurate information. Attach one of your passport-sized photos to the form.
Submit your completed application form along with all required documents to the immigration officer. Make sure to double-check that you have all necessary paperwork to avoid delays.
Pay the 1,900 THB extension fee in cash. Some offices may accept credit cards, but itās safer to bring cash.
Processing times can vary, but it typically takes a few hours. You may be asked to wait in the office or come back later in the day.
Once your application is approved, your passport will be stamped with the new visa extension date. Double-check the stamp to ensure that all details are correct.
By following these steps and preparing in advance, you can efficiently extend your Thai tourist visa or visa exemption and continue enjoying your stay in Thailand.