The Bukit Berapit border in Perak is one of the lesser-known and quieter land crossings between Malaysia and Thailand. It is commonly used by locals and travellers heading into southern Thailand, especially those who prefer a calmer route compared to major checkpoints like Bukit Kayu Hitam or Padang Besar.
Because this border sees lighter traffic, the crossing experience is usually smoother as long as your documents are prepared. Below is a simple guide covering border details, peak traffic periods, and the full process from immigration clearance to vehicle approval.
Border Overview
- Location: Bukit Berapit, Perak
- Operating hours: 6.00AM – 11.00PM
- Thailand province: Yala Province (Entering via Betong District)
Peak Traffic Periods
Bukit Berapit is generally low traffic, but congestion may increase during:
- Friday evening
- Saturday morning
- School holiday
- Public holiday
Tip: Enter early in the morning (6:00–8:00 AM) for the fastest clearance.
STEP 1: Malaysian Immigration
- Queue at the “Cars to Thailand” lane
- Drive to the counter
- Present passport for exit stamp including passengers
- Drive onward to the Thai checkpoint
Remarks: Usually this process is fast unless during peak periods
STEP 2: Thai Immigration Checkpoint
- Park your vehicle at the designated parking area
- All passengers and the driver must exit the vehicle
- Queue at the immigration counter and present:
- Passport (for entry stamp)
- TDAC (Thailand Digital Arrival Card) copy
Submit your Digital Arrival Card in advance at: https://tdac.immigration.go.th
Overtime Fees (may apply after 5 PM & during Public Holidays)
|
Car / MPV / Van |
Driver: 25 THB (≈ RM3+) |
Passenger: 5 THB (≈ RM0.60+) |
|
Motorcycle |
Rider: 10 THB (≈ RM1.30) |
Pillion: 3 THB (≈ RM0.40+) |
STEP 3: Thai Customs – Vehicle Declaration
- After your passport is stamped, the driver proceeds to the Customs Counter at the Betong Customs House building to declare the vehicle.
- Original vehicle grant
- Passport
- Copy of Thailand motor insurance (CI/VI)
- TM2 – Vehicle information
- TM3 – Temporary vehicle import permit
Additional Requirement (If Applicable)
If the vehicle is not under your name:
- Authorisation letter
- Copy of owner’s ID
If the car is company’s vehicle:
- Company authorisation letter (letterhead)
- SSM page 9,24 &49
- Remarks: All documents must be certified by Air Panas Police
STEP 4 (LAST STEP): Final Customs Clearance
- Present the approved vehicle declaration documents to the customs officer
- Officers may verify your vehicle licence plate number
- Once cleared, you may drive into Betong, Yala Province
Pengkalan Hulu/Bukit Berapit is ideal for travellers seeking a calm and scenic crossing. Planning ahead is everything in preparing your trip into Thailand. With Drive2Thai, you can easily get your Thai motor insurance and CI/VI, and TM2 and TM3 forms online and have these sent directly to your email so you’re border-ready before you arrive. Before beginning your road trip to Thailand from Malaysia, don’t forget to familiarize yourself with the border operating hours.
