If you are applying for a visa to Thailand, one of the essential documents you will need is a flight reservation — also known as a dummy ticket. This guide explains what Thailand embassies require, how to get a verified flight booking, and tips for a successful application.
Why Do You Need a Flight Reservation for a Thailand Visa?
Embassies and consulates require a flight reservation to confirm that you have concrete travel plans. It shows when you intend to enter and leave the country, helping visa officers assess your application. Most embassies explicitly advise against purchasing a fully paid ticket before your visa is approved — a temporary flight reservation is the recommended approach.
Types of Thailand Visas That Require Flight Reservations
Thailand visas that typically require a flight reservation include tourist visa, visa on arrival, and visa exemption entries. Even visa-exempt travellers may be asked for proof of onward travel at immigration. For all of these, you should submit a round-trip flight itinerary as part of your application.
How to Get a Dummy Ticket for Thailand
The fastest and most reliable way is to use PNR Booking. Here is how it works:
- Search for flights — Enter your departure city, destination (Thailand), and travel dates.
- Enter passenger details — Provide your full name as it appears on your passport.
- Complete the booking — Pay the small reservation fee and receive your verified booking document instantly.
Your reservation will include a valid PNR code that can be verified on the airline's website or through services like CheckMyTrip. This is what makes it different from a fake or generated itinerary — it is a real booking in the airline's system.
Thailand Visa Requirements Overview
In addition to a flight reservation, a Thailand visa application typically requires a valid passport, passport photos, proof of accommodation, proof of funds (20,000 THB for individuals), and return/onward flight reservation.
You can get both your flight reservation and hotel booking from PNR Booking, streamlining your application process.
Processing Time and Tips
The typical processing time for a Thailand visa is 3-5 working days for tourist visas, or immediate for visa on arrival. Thai immigration at airports frequently checks for proof of onward travel, even for visa-exempt nationalities. Having a dummy ticket ready can prevent being denied entry.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using a fake or unverifiable itinerary. Embassy staff have access to airline systems and can check whether your PNR code is real. Submitting a fake document can result in immediate rejection and may affect future applications.
Booking too early. Flight reservations are temporary and expire after 7-14 days. Book your dummy ticket 1-3 days before your embassy appointment for maximum validity.
Name mismatches. Your name on the reservation must exactly match your passport. Double-check spelling, middle names, and any special characters.
Missing hotel booking. Most visa applications require both flight and accommodation proof. Get both from PNR Booking to save time.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a dummy ticket for Thailand cost?
A verified flight reservation from PNR Booking costs $10 per person. This includes a real PNR code, instant delivery, and a professional booking document.
Can the Thailand embassy verify my reservation?
Yes. All PNR Booking reservations are made through airline GDS systems with valid PNR codes that can be verified online.
How long is the flight reservation valid?
Reservations typically remain active for 7-14 days, which covers most visa processing timelines.
What if my Thailand visa is denied?
You only lose the small reservation fee ($10), not the hundreds you would lose on a full airline ticket. This is the main benefit of using a dummy ticket.