The Cabinet approved a number of visa and travel facilitation measures to stimulate Thailand’s economy and promote its tourism, following a proposal by the Department of Consular Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, on 28 May 2024.
The measures are divided into three stages.
Five short-term measures expected to take effect in late June or early July 2024 include the following:
1) Extending visa exemption for tourists and short-term business visitors for a period of up to 60 days (from the period of 30 days) for passport holders from 93 countries/ regions;
2) Increasing the number of countries/regions whose passport holders qualify for Visa on Arrival (VOA) from 19 to 31;
3) Introducing the new Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) for long-term travel, “digital nomads,” and participants in certain cultural activities, with a period of stay up to 180 days per visit, on a multiple-entry basis within 5 years;
4) Improving the non-immigration visa to facilitate the travel of international students and those nearing graduation in Thailand;
5) Establishing a “Visa Policy Committee” to develop Thailand’s entry processes and improve the efficiency of immigration procedures.
Three medium-term measures are as follows:
1) Grouping and streamlining non-immigrant visa types;
2) Lowering health insurance requirements and expanding the list of countries eligible for long-term non-immigrant visa applications;
3) Implementing the e-Visa system at all embassies and consulates by December 2024.
One long-term measure includes the introduction of the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system, which will be implemented in line with the e-Visa system. (PRD)
