Immigration process if arriving from Malaysia
If you’re arriving on the ferry from Langkawi, all immigration formalities are handled at the small kiosk just a few metres from the beach. It’s one of the most informal borders you’ll pass through during your travels and progress can be a little slow if you’re last off the ferry.
Firstly, it’s worth noting that after you’ve cleared immigration in Langkawi, the boat crew will take your passports from you before you board the ferry. This isn’t usual by any means and many travellers (us included) aren’t especially keen on their passports being withheld. Officially the reason is that some passengers ‘forget’ to clear Thai immigration but the reality is that the ferry terminal in Koh Lipe is so basic, there’s no way to stop someone deliberately bypassing immigration and walking straight into Thailand. So instead, you need to first queue at another kiosk to request your passport (tell them your nationality and they’ll ask you to choose yours from a pile!).
From here, you join another queue to have you passport stamped (remember to fill out the online Thai arrival card before arriving) and then to yet another desk to pay your National Park Fees in cash only (THB200 for adults, THB100 for children. You can also pay in Malaysian Ringgit although the exchange rate isn’t great: RM35 for adults and RM17 for children).
Finally, collect your bags from the pile of luggage on the beach and make your way into Thailand.
In reverse, if you’re heading to Malaysia, passports are taken from you before boarding and returned on the ferry. The immigration facilities in Langkawi are significantly more modern and less cumbersome.
