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Thailand’s new visa regulations, which include a 60-day visa free and Visa on Arrival (VOA) schemes, as well as the introduction of the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) for remote workers and students, are set to launch on July 15, 2024. These measures are designed to enhance Thailand’s appeal as a top destination for tourists and short-term business visitors from around the world.
Recent Surge in Tourist Arrivals
As of July 7, Thailand has seen a remarkable 35% increase in foreign arrivals compared to the same period in 2023, with the number reaching 18.2 million visitors. This influx has significantly boosted the local economy, contributing approximately 858 billion baht ($24 billion). Notably, the primary sources of these tourists have been China, Malaysia, and India, showcasing a strong interest in Thailand from these regions.
Visa Waiver Program Under the new visa waiver program, citizens from 93 nations, an increase from the previous 57, can enter Thailand without a visa. This exemption allows for stays related to tourism and brief business visits up to 60 days, with an option to extend for an additional 30 days at the Immigration Office.
The countries included in this exemption are Albania, Andorra, Australia, Austria, Bahrain, Belgium, Bhutan, Brazil, Brunei, Bulgaria, Cambodia, Canada, China, Colombia, Croatia, Cuba, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Estonia, Fiji, Finland, France, Georgia, Germany, Greece, Guatemala, Hong Kong, Hungary, Iceland, India, Indonesia, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Jamaica, Japan, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Korea (ROK), Kosovo, Kuwait, Laos, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Macao, Malaysia, Maldives, Malta, Mauritius, Mexico, Monaco, Mongolia, Morocco, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Oman, Panama, Papua New Guinea, Peru, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, Romania, Russia, San Marino, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Africa, Spain, Sri Lanka, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, Tonga, Trinidad and Tobago, Türkiye, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, United States, Uruguay, Uzbekistan, and Vietnam.
Visa on Arrival (VOA) An expanded VOA program now includes nationals from 31 countries, increased from 19, who can apply directly at immigration checkpoints upon arrival. This visa is suitable for short-term tourist visits of up to 15 days, and comes with a fee of 2,000 Baht.
Eligible countries for VOA are Armenia, Belarus, Bhutan, Bolivia, Bulgaria, China, Costa Rica, Cyprus, El Salvador, Ethiopia, Fiji, Georgia, India, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Malta, Mexico, Namibia, Nauru, Papua New Guinea, Paraguay, Romania, Russia*, Saudi Arabia*, Serbia, Seychelles, Taiwan, Tunisia, Uzbekistan, Vanuatu, and Venezuela.
Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) The DTV initiative targets remote workers, digital nomads, freelancers, and participants in various activities like Muay Thai training, Thai cooking courses, sport training sessions, medical treatments, seminars, and music festivals. Applicants need to show financial proof or a fund guarantee of no less than 500,000 Baht. The visa costs 10,000 Baht and allows a five-year stay with multiple entries, each not exceeding 180 days, extendable for another 180 days.
Student Visa Extensions
Additionally, Thailand is enhancing its offering for international students with the Non-Immigrant ED Plus Visa, allowing graduates of Thai institutions to extend their stay for an additional year to seek employment. This opportunity to transition to a Non-Immigration B visa without leaving the country is expected to attract more international students.
Thailand’s Tourist Appeal
Thailand continues to draw visitors with its picturesque landscapes, from beautiful beaches and nature reserves to vibrant cities filled with historical temples. The nation’s renowned cuisine, exciting nightlife, and affordable luxury accommodations add to its attractiveness as a destination. With these new visa policies, Thailand is poised to further enhance its tourism sector, boost its economy, and solidify its status as a leading global travel destination.
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