Attendance at the 2026 Annual Meetings of the International Monetary Fund and World Bank Group is by invitation only. All participants must be accredited in advance of the Meetings.

All foreign nationals entering Thailand must possess a passport or a valid travel document with a validity of at least six months beyond their intended date of departure.

All visa information and application procedures are fully accessible online.

Participants of the 2026 Annual Meetings are eligible for a courtesy visa or visa exemption for diplomatic, official, or ordinary passports if their countries have a bilateral agreement on visa exemption and visa on arrival with Thailand. More information can be found in the 2026 Annual Meetings E-Visa Guidelines. All applications must be submitted online via the Thailand E-Visa Official Website.

For visa related enquiries, please contact visaam2026@fpo.go.th

Travelers from 42 countries are required to present a valid International Health Certificate for Yellow Fever Vaccination to the Border Health Desk and the Immigration Officer upon arrival at the port of entry in Thailand.

Please refer to the Notification of the Ministry of Public Health concerning the Immunization against Yellow Fever B.E. 2560 (2017).  

More information can be found here.

Due to the World Health Organization’s declaration of the Ebola outbreak as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern, Thailand has established guidelines for the isolation and quarantine of travelers arriving from designated Ebola-affected areas. Since May 27, 2026, travelers arriving from the Democratic Republic of the Congo are required to undergo at least 21 days of quarantine or isolation, as applicable.

More information can be found here.

All participants are required to present a Thailand Digital Arrival Card upon entry. Required information must be submitted online via the Official Thailand Digital Arrival Card website within 72 hours before scheduled arrival in Thailand. 

Badges can be collected at the Registration Building, located in a building adjacent to the QSNCC (See Venues Section for Campus Map).

All participants must present their Registration Confirmation Letter and a Government-issued photo ID to collect their Annual Meetings badge.

Annual Meetings badges must bear a current photograph of the registrant. Participants must be photographed and obtain their individual badge prior to entering the QSNCC.

All participants:

• Sunday, October 11, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
• Monday, October 12, 2026, from 7:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
• Tuesday - Saturday, October 13 – 17, 2026, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
• Sunday, October 18, 2026, from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

*Please note that times are subject to change.

Access beyond the registration area will not be permitted until the first day of the Annual Meetings on Monday, October 12.

All participants must present a valid Annual Meetings Badge or Registration Confirmation Letter to enter through perimeter checkpoints. Participants are required to scan their Annual Meetings Badge before accessing the QSNCC. Badges must always be visibly displayed while inside the security perimeter. It is not advisable to wear identification badges in public outside the campus perimeter.

Annual Meetings Badges will be valid from Monday, October 12, through Sunday, October 18, 2026, and will allow entry into the QSNCC. The campus will remain accessible for badge holders until 7:00 p.m. on October 18

All individuals will be subject to magnetometer screening before entering QSNCC. While screening lines typically move quickly, participants should allow additional time to ensure timely arrival for scheduled meetings. 

The 2026 Annual Meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank Group (WBG) follow strict ethical standards to foster a safe and inclusive environment. All Meetings participants (attendees, visitors, and service providers) are required to uphold the institutions’ core values of integrity, impartiality, honesty, and respect. For more information visit the 2026 Annual Meetings Code of Conduct page.

Participants should follow all prevailing health and safety guidance. Participants feeling unwell should not come to the Meetings venue.

The 2026 Annual Meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank Group (WBG) will take place at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center (QSNCC), a premier venue in central Bangkok with direct access to the MRT Blue Line. QSNCC will host all official meetings, offices, services, media facilities, and participant support functions, offering a modern and convenient campus for attendees.

• Level 2 – Meeting Rooms (Expand Floor Map)
  Meeting rooms, CSO Center, as well as restaurants and a business lounge.
• Level 1 – Plenary Hall, Ballrooms, Offices and Meeting Rooms (Expand Floor Map)
  Hosts the Plenary Hall and Ballrooms, along with additional offices and meeting rooms.
• Level G – Campus Entrances, Event Rooms, Service Counters (Expand Floor Map)
  Main campus entrances, event rooms, exhibits, business lounges and service counters.
• Level LG – Offices and Dining Options (Expand Floor Map)
  Office spaces for member countries, as well as restaurants and cafés.
• Level B1 – Food Court (Expand Floor Map)
  A variety of dining options for participants.
• Level B2 – Press Center (Expand Floor Map) 
  Dedicated facilities and workspaces for accredited media.

• Annual Meetings Badge Collection Point.

During the week of the 2026 Annual Meetings, there will be an increased police presence and traffic control measures around the Annual Meetings campus at QSNCC (Queen Sirikit National Convention Center). Checkpoints will be established in the surrounding areas to ensure safe and orderly access to the venue. Participants should allow additional time when traveling to and from the campus. Attendees are encouraged to remain vigilant and immediately report any suspicious activity, unattended items, or security concerns to security personnel. In the event of an emergency, please follow the instructions of security and law enforcement officials. 

Campus Access during the Annual Meetings  

A full security perimeter will be in place around QSNCC from October 11 to 18, 2026.

• Only Annual Meetings badge holders will be allowed to enter the perimeter via access points A.
• Only official vehicles and shuttle buses with Annual Meetings placards will be allowed to enter the security perimeter.
• Participants without a badge should proceed to the registration building near Benjakitti Park using the marked footpath (B) along the security perimeter. 
• Participants should allow additional travel time due to security screening, access controls, and traffic management measures in and around the venue. 

Entry to the QSNCC Campus

Once inside the security perimeter, badged participants may use any of the three entrances in QSNCC:

• The Ratchadapisek Road (East) Entrance is open to all participants, with dedicated Governors’ lanes and designated drop-off for Governors’ vehicles.
• The Lakeside (North) Entrance, is open to all participants and serves as the pick-up and drop-off point for shuttle services to and from official hotels.
• Gate 3 entrance is open to all participants, immediately after retrieving their badges at the Registration Center

Participants are required to scan their Annual Meetings badge before accessing the QSNCC. All personal items (luggage, bags, laptop) will be screened through x-ray and magnetometer checkpoints. Additional screening or search may be required if any suspicious item is discovered during the screening.

Annual Meetings badges are issued exclusively to the named participant and non-transferable. Any misuse may result in the badge being revoked and may affect the participant's eligibility to attend future Meetings.

Prohibited Items

Weapons or weapon-like objects, explosives, flammable materials, fireworks, hazardous substances, illegal drugs, and any other items that may endanger participants or disrupt the Annual Meetings are strictly prohibited within the QSNCC campus. Security personnel will deny entry to individuals carrying prohibited items. Additional screening or inspection may be required at the discretion of security personnel.

In an emergency, the buildings may be evacuated, or you may be told to remain indoors until the situation has been resolved. In either instance, you will be notified by public address announcement or by security personnel. 

Fire

In the event of a fire or smoke within the QSNCC, do not wait for a public announcement - leave immediately. Participants should evacuate using the nearest marked emergency exit. Do not use the elevators. Follow illuminated exit signs, public announcements, and instructions from security personnel. After exiting the building, do not re-enter the venue until authorized to do so.

Disaster Risks

Bangkok is not generally considered a high-risk natural disaster zone. However, heavy rainfall, localized flooding, thunderstorms, strong winds, and extreme heat may occur, particularly during the rainy season. Participants are encouraged to monitor weather updates, allow additional travel time during severe weather, and follow guidance from local authorities.

Although earthquakes are infrequent in Bangkok, tremors from regional seismic activity may occasionally be felt in high-rise buildings. In the unlikely event of an earthquake or noticeable shaking, remain calm, and follow the “Drop, Cover, Hold On” guidance: drop to the ground, take cover, away from windows and unsecured objects, and hold on until the shaking stops. Follow the instructions of security personnel. Do not use the elevators. If evacuation is required, proceed to the nearest safe exit.

Security Tips

Always visibly display your Annual Meetings badge inside the venue. Keep your badge in a secure place when outside the security perimeter.  Immediately report the loss of your Annual Meetings badge to security.  Do not leave laptops, mobile phones, or other personal items unattended.  

Participants are advised to cooperate if approached by law enforcement authorities:

1. Stay calm, follow directions, and comply with lawful instructions.
2. Provide identification and answer questions as required.
3. Do not argue, resist, or engage in any behavior that would escalate the situation.
4. Report the incident promptly and seek support from security if needed .

Prior to traveling to Thailand, it is also advisable to look for and save the consular assistance hotlines of your respective embassies/consulates based in Bangkok.  

Emergency Response Guide

*Please note that all times are subject to change.

To ensure a seamless experience for persons with reduced mobility (PRM), an information counter will be located in the registration area. Trained personnel will be available to provide information and offer personalized assistance as needed.

Trained volunteers, easily identifiable by their uniforms, will be stationed throughout the campus to assist and accompany participants with reduced mobility. These volunteers will be specially trained to provide guidance and support based on individual needs.

A range of mobility aids, including wheelchairs, will be available and may be reserved through the information counter.

The campus also features accessible facilities and amenities, including ramps, accessible restrooms, and other specialized equipment designed to support persons with reduced mobility.

CLOSED CAPTIONING

Closed captioning services will be available for select public events to ensure an inclusive and accessible experience for all attendees. Closed captioning provides real-time text display of spoken words, making it easier for individuals who are hearing impaired to follow along. It also benefits non-native speakers and anyone who prefers reading along.  

BTS Skytrain and MRT Metro

Bangkok’s MRT Metro and BTS Skytrain provide fast, reliable access to many of the city’s major hotels, business districts, and attractions. The MRT Blue Line offers the most direct connection to QSNCC via Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre Station. Participants staying along BTS routes can conveniently transfer to the MRT at interchange stations, including Asok/Sukhumvit and Saladaeng/Silom.

Ride-Hailing Applications

Ride-hailing services are widely available in Bangkok and offer a convenient alternative to taxis. App-based booking provides fare transparency and advance destination entry, making these services a practical option for travel between QSNCC, official hotels, restaurants, shopping malls and other destinations. Please be advised that the designated drop-off and pick-up for participants using private vehicles are outside the campus security perimeter.

Taxis

Metered taxis are widely available throughout Bangkok and provide convenient door-to-door transportation. QSNCC is easily accessible by taxi; however, travel times may vary depending on traffic conditions. Participants are advised to allow for additional travel time during peak hours and ensure the meter is used. Please be advised that the designated drop-off and pick-up for participants using taxis are outside the campus security perimeter.

BMTA Bus Service

Bangkok’s public bus network serves a wide area of the city and offers an economical transportation option. While several routes operate near QSNCC, participants may find the MRT a more convenient and efficient way to reach the venue, particularly during peak traffic periods.

Tuk-tuks

Tuk-tuks are a distinctive feature of Bangkok’s transportation network and offer a unique way to experience the city. They are best suited for short journeys, particularly in historic and tourist areas. Participants should agree on the fare before departure and plan additional travel time during periods of heavy traffic.

Transit map of BTS & MRT stations in Bangkok

Parking within QSNCC is available for vehicles with appropriate placard clearance. There is a limited number of parking spaces available for pre-approved, placarded vehicles. Only vehicles with the appropriate placard will be permitted entry to the campus and designated parking areas.

This guide provides practical information for accredited media and press representatives covering the 2026 IMF/World Bank Group Annual Meetings. It complements the 2026 Annual Meetings Guide for Participants by offering media-specific guidance on accreditation, access, media facilities, technical and operational arrangements, and other frequently asked questions to support coverage of the Meetings.

All working press must register and have active 2026 Annual Meetings credentials to attend the Annual Meetings in Bangkok, Thailand, from Monday, October 12, 2026, to Sunday, October 18, 2026, at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center (QSNCC). To be accredited, press registrants must demonstrate that they are practicing journalists, meaning they are actively working on and publishing journalistic content, and that they hold valid media credentials. This also applies to freelance members of the media, including photographers, videographers, and bloggers.

For accreditation:

Journalists based in the United States must have press credentials issued by either the White House, the U.S. Department of State, the U.S. Department of the Treasury, the House and Senate Press Gallery, the U.S. Department of Defense, or the USIA Foreign Press Center, in addition to an assignment letter from the editor representing a recognized news organization with the company’s letterhead and assignment dates.

Journalists based outside of the United States must have:

o  Valid press credentials issued by national or local authorities; or

• A valid assignment letter from the editor representing a recognized news organization with the company’s letterhead and  assignment dates.
• Freelancers, including photographers, videographers, and bloggers, must provide proof of assignment with the        company’s letterhead and assignment dates.
• Photographic agencies and video crews must provide confirmation from the commissioning outlet via an assignment letter with the company’s letterhead and assignment dates.

o  International journalists based in Thailand must present their valid press credential issued by Thailand’s Department of Public Relations 

The IMF and World Bank Group retain discretion over accreditation decisions for the 2026 Annual Meetings. If press credentials are deemed invalid, questionable, or have been revoked, the IMF and the World Bank Group reserve the right to deny, at their sole discretion, access to the 2026 Annual Meetings.

Journalists who meet the requirements above should apply for 2026 Annual Meetings credentials online here. Registration for 2026 Annual Meetings credentials is free of charge. There is no option for onsite registration. Members of the press are encouraged to use their official email address in their application.

The IMF or World Bank Group will not be responsible for journalists' travel costs and other expenses.

Registered participants of the 2026 IMF and World Bank Group Annual Meetings are eligible for a courtesy visa. Please apply for a courtesy visa through the Thailand e-Visa portal. We recommend completing your Annual Meetings registration and obtaining your IMF confirmation letter before beginning the visa application process. All visitors to Thailand must have a valid passport with at least six months’ validity and one blank page.

Please note that visa processing may take time. We therefore strongly encourage you to submit your media registration application no later than September 1, 2026. For more information on the application process, see the step-by-step guide on how to apply for an e-visa. If you have further visa-related questions, please contact your local Thai embassy.

When entering Thailand, every traveler is required to present a Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC).

To collect 2026 Annual Meetings badges, journalists must present their registration confirmation letter and show their valid, current press credentials or assignment letter and a valid government-issued identification.

Members of the press can collect their 2026 Annual Meetings badges starting on Sunday, October 11, 2026, from the Annual Meetings Campus at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center, 60 Ratchadaphisek Road, Khlong Toei, Bangkok 10110.

Press badge pickup hours of operation are as follows (subject to change):

    Sunday, October 11 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

    Monday, October 12 7:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

    Tuesday, October 13 – Saturday, October 17 8:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

    Sunday, October 18 8:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. (subject to change)

Important: Lost or damaged badges cannot be reprinted.

All persons must display their 2026 Annual Meetings photo identification badges to board the shuttle buses to/from the campus, and to enter the campus.

A 2026 Annual Meetings badge/press credential grants journalists access to the Press Center, press conferences, public events, and seminars on campus. Areas designated as private or invitation-only are restricted and not open to accredited press. Certain areas of the campus — including some meeting rooms — are off-limits to press at all times, regardless of credentials.

International journalists traveling with professional media equipment (e.g., cameras, LiveU units, audio equipment, lighting equipment, or other broadcast gear) should comply with Thai customs requirements and bring all relevant customs documentation to present to Thai customs authorities at the airport in Bangkok upon arrival.

✓ Journalists from countries participating in the ATA Carnet system should obtain an ATA Carnet before traveling and present     it at the airport of entry. Information on the ATA Carnet system, including participating countries, can be found here and     here.

✓Journalists from countries that do not participate in the ATA Carnet system should prepare the required documents listed in     Annex 1 of this Guide and present them at the airport of entry. You are welcome to have the documents reviewed in advance     by sending them to the email addresses below to verify their completeness and accuracy before traveling. You may also     contact the customs offices with any questions.

If you arrive at:

• Suvarnabhumi Airport Contact Passenger Control Customs Office: 76000000@customs.go.th
• Don Mueang Airport Customs Office: 107427@customs.go.th

Media based in Thailand do not need to complete these procedures for equipment already located in the country.

All media must be informed that drone use is prohibited at Annual Meetings.

The Press Center is located on the B2 floor of QSNCC and will operate daily from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Journalists should not leave personal belongings in the Press Center overnight. The IMF and World Bank Group are not responsible for lost or damaged items.

The press room has limited space and operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Each table will be equipped with a power strip. The Press Center will have wireless (Wi-Fi) access for personal laptops. Computers are not provided to journalists. For further information regarding telecommunications arrangements on campus in Thailand, please contact media@IMF.org and MassmediaAM2026@bot.or.th.

Technicians for broadcast outlets, news wires, and other accredited news organizations may arrange for advance access to the press room through special arrangements with the IMF's Media Relations and Social Outreach division (media@IMF.org). Please cc Mayada Ghazala (Mghazala@IMF.org) and Pavis Devahasadin (Pdevahasadin@imf.org) in your email correspondence.

The IMF’s and World Bank Group’s Media Relations teams facilitate interview requests for IMF and World Bank Group officials. However, press officers do not service interview requests for official country delegations to the Meetings. Requests to interview country officials or other

delegation members must be directed to the delegations or through the Executive Directors representing their constituencies.

✓ For IMF interview requests, please send an email to: Media@IMF.org

✓ For World Bank Group interview requests, please send an email to: Press@worldbankgroup.org

✓ For interview requests with Thai authorities, please send an email to: MassmediaAM2026@bot.or.th

Photo opportunities are expected in connection with ministerial meetings, including at the start of selected sessions. These opportunities will be coordinated on site by the IMF and World Bank Group press offices and may be pooled depending on demand and logistics. Photojournalists are advised to assemble approximately 15 minutes in advance and should check in at the media help desks in the Press Center for details and instructions.

A selection of still photos in high resolution will be available after each event on IMF’s Photoshelter and the World Bank Group’s Flickr account.

Download and use of images are free of charge but must be credited to the listed photographer, if listed, and organization when published online or in print. In addition, broadcast-quality video clips of selected IMF press conferences will be available for download on http://mediacenter.imf.org/ and on Home | UNifeed. World Bank Group video clips will be available on request by contacting press@worldbankgroup.org, or will be released on Home | UNifeed. This service is free of charge.

For download links to open events, please visit the IMF media desk in the Press Center.

Journalists can book interview rooms and edit booths through the IMF’s media desk located inside the Press Center on campus. Kindly note that the number of interview rooms and editing booths is limited.

Video feeds to edit booths will be 1080i 50 and distributed over an SDI cable. Press is responsible for bringing appropriate converters to interface with their laptops.

A tentative schedule of public seminars and press conferences will be available and updated regularly on IMF Connect, the IMF’s Annual Meetings website, and the World Bank Group Annual Meetings website. Please note that only members of the press with valid Annual Meetings press badges are allowed entry into press conferences/briefings and open events.

All press briefings are transcribed and posted on the external websites of the IMF and World Bank Group as soon as possible.

All IMF public events and press briefings will be livestreamed on IMF Live, IMFConnect, the IMFConnect application, and IMF’s YouTube Channel.

World Bank Group’s public events and press conferences will be livestreamed on World Bank Live.

✓ IMF Online Press Center

The IMF’s online Press Center offers advance access to IMF information. It is a password-protected site for working journalists only.

• Already Registered? Login 
• Not Registered with the Press Center Yet? Register today!

✓ World Bank Group Online Media Briefing Center

The Media Briefing Center offers advance access to embargoed information of the World Bank Group. It is a password-protected site for working journalists only.

• Already Registered? Login
• Not Registered Yet? Register today!

• Members of the media are requested to wear appropriate attire in the Press Center and at all conference venues.
• Thailand is currently observing a period of mourning. As a sign of respect for Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother and Her Royal Highness Princess Bajrakitiyabha, dark or neutral-colored attire is encouraged.

1. A request letter for duty exemption
2. A draft import declaration
3. A security letter and bond
4. Licenses for restricted goods
5. Invoice / Packing List
6. Delivery Order
7. Bill of Lading / Air Waybill / Receipt for Merchandise or Baggage Retained in Customs Custody*
8. Catalogue/Photos

* For air cargo, the required transport document is the Air Waybill (AWB). For accompanied baggage, Thai Customs will issue a Receipt for Merchandise or Baggage Retained in Customs Custody upon the passenger’s arrival.

For questions or assistance with the required documentation, please contact the Thai Customs Department at the email address below.

Suvarnabhumi Airport Passenger Control Customs Office: 76000000@customs.go.th

Don Mueang Airport Customs Office: 107427@customs.go.th