Thailand Expands Visa-Free Entry to 93 Countries to Boost Tourism

Thailand has taken a significant step to rejuvenate its tourism industry by expanding its visa-free entry scheme to 93 countries and territories. Under the new scheme, which began on Monday, visitors can now stay in the vibrant South-East Asian nation for up to 60 days.

Previously, passport holders from 57 countries enjoyed visa-free entry. This expansion is part of Thailand’s strategic efforts to recover and grow its tourism sector, a vital pillar of its economy.

In the first half of 2024, Thailand welcomed 17.5 million foreign tourists, a remarkable 35% increase compared to the same period last year, according to official data. Although these numbers are still below pre-pandemic levels, the growth is a positive sign of recovery. The majority of visitors hailed from China, Malaysia, and India.

Tourism revenue during the first six months of 2024 amounted to 858 billion baht ($23.6bn; £18.3bn), which is less than a quarter of the government’s ambitious target. Nonetheless, Thailand remains a top destination for its golden temples, white sand beaches, picturesque mountains, and vibrant nightlife.

The revised visa-free rules are part of a broader initiative to stimulate tourism. Additionally, Thailand introduced a new five-year visa for remote workers, allowing holders to stay for up to 180 days each year. The country also extended a warm welcome to visiting students, permitting those who earn a bachelor’s degree or higher in Thailand to stay for one year after graduation to find a job or travel.

In June, authorities extended a waiver on hoteliers’ operating fees for two more years and scrapped a proposed tourism fee for visitors flying into the country. These measures aim to create a more inviting environment for tourists and support the industry’s recovery.

Despite these positive changes, some stakeholders have voiced concerns about the country’s infrastructure keeping pace with the influx of travelers. Kantapong Thananuangroj, president of the Thai Tourism Promotion Association, emphasized the need for comprehensive preparation to ensure a positive experience for visitors.

“If more people are coming, it means the country as a whole, not just the Ministry of Tourism – has to prepare our resources to welcome them,” said Thananuangroj. “If not, [the tourists] may not be impressed with the experience they have in Thailand and we may not get a second chance.”

Chamnan Srisawat, president of the Tourism Council of Thailand, also highlighted potential bottlenecks in air traffic, as the number of incoming flights might not increase quickly enough to meet travelers’ demands.

There have been safety concerns amid rumors of tourists being kidnapped and sent across the border to work in scam centers in Myanmar or Cambodia. However, Thailand remains committed to ensuring the safety and satisfaction of its visitors.

With these dynamic changes and a focus on creating a welcoming and safe environment, Thailand is poised to further solidify its status as a premier global tourist destination.