Thailand has announced a significant update to its visa policy, allowing citizens from 93 countries to enter the country without a visa for up to 60 days. This move aims to boost tourism and make travel more convenient for a wide range of international visitors.
Key Takeaways
- Citizens from 93 countries can stay in Thailand for up to 60 days without a visa starting July 15, 2024.
- The list of countries eligible for Visa on Arrival (VOA) has been expanded from 19 to 31.
- A new Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) has been introduced for remote workers and digital nomads.
- International students will have improved conditions for staying and working in Thailand after graduation.
Expanded Visa-Free Entry
The Ministry of Interior has updated its visa measures to attract more foreign tourists and stimulate the economy. Passport holders from 93 countries and territories are now exempt from visa requirements for up to 60 days. This policy is set to come into effect on July 15, 2024.
Eligible Countries
Europe (40):
- Albania
- Andorra
- Austria
- Belgium
- Bulgaria
- Cyprus
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Georgia
- Germany
- Greece
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Ireland
- Israel
- Italy
- Kosovo
- Latvia
- Liechtenstein
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malta
- Monaco
- Netherlands
- Norway
- Poland
- Portugal
- Romania
- Russia
- Saint-Marin
- Serbia
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- Ukraine
- United Kingdom
Asia (28):
- Bahrain
- Bhutan
- Brunei
- Cambodia
- Hong Kong
- India
- Indonesia
- Japan
- Jordan
- Kazakhstan
- Kuwait
- Laos
- Macao
- Malaysia
- Maldives
- Mongolia
- Oman
- Philippines
- Qatar
- Saudi Arabia
- Singapore
- South Korea
- Sri Lanka
- Taiwan
- Turkey
- United Arab Emirates
- Uzbekistan
- Vietnam
Americas (12):
- United States
- Canada
- Brazil
- Argentina
- Chile
- Colombia
- Ecuador
- Guatemala
- Mexico
- Panama
- Peru
- Uruguay
Oceania (4):
- Australia
- Fiji
- New Zealand
- Papua New Guinea
Africa (9):
- South Africa
- Botswana
- Eswatini
- Lesotho
- Malawi
- Mauritius
- Namibia
- Seychelles
- Zambia
New Visa on Arrival (VOA) Policy
The list of countries eligible for Visa on Arrival (VOA) at immigration checkpoints has been increased from 19 to 31. This change is part of Thailand’s broader strategy to make travel more accessible and convenient for international visitors.
Destination Thailand Visa (DTV)
Thailand has introduced a new visa category aimed at remote workers and digital nomads. The Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) allows foreigners to stay in Thailand for up to 180 days per visit, with a validity of five years. The visa offers multiple entries, enabling holders to enter and exit the country multiple times during its validity period.
Key Features of DTV
- Suitable for skilled foreigners, digital nomads, freelancers, and those engaged in activities like Muay Thai, cooking, sports training, medical treatments, seminars, and art and music events.
- Spouses and legal children (under 20 years of age) of DTV holders are also eligible.
- Requires proof of financial support or a guarantee of at least 500,000 baht for the duration of the stay.
- The visa fee is 10,000 baht, valid for 5 years, and can be extended once for an additional 180 days with an extra fee of 10,000 baht.
Improved Conditions for Foreign Students
International students pursuing a bachelor’s degree or higher on a non-immigrant (ED) visa will find it easier to stay and work in Thailand after graduation. The new policy extends their stay by one year after graduation for job search, travel, or other activities, with certification from the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research, and Innovation.
Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul reviewed and signed the four announcements, which were then submitted to the Prime Minister for signature. The measures will be published in the Royal Gazette and will come into force on July 15, 2024.
Sources
- Thailand approves 60-day visa-free entry for 93 countries starting from July 15th – Thailand Business News, Thailand Business News.
