Thailand unveils new visa rules to boost tourism and economy

Bangkok, Thailand – In a significant move to boost the tourism sector, the Thai government on Tuesday announced a series of changes to visa rules that will benefit tourists, remote workers, postgraduate students and retirees. The new rules, which have been in force since June, are aimed at attracting more tourists as the country seeks economic recovery.

From next month, Thailand will expand its visa-free program to 93 countries, an increase from the current 57.

Travelers from these countries can now stay in the country for up to 60 days, doubling the previous limit. The list of new eligible countries includes China, India and several countries in Eastern Europe and Central Asia.

Additionally, the government has expanded visa-on-arrival coverage, increasing the number of eligible countries from 19 to 31. This expansion is part of Thailand’s strategy to simplify entry processes and attract more tourists.

Government spokesperson Chai Wacharonke detailed that international students will now be able to stay in the country for one year after completing their studies, a significant extension aimed at retaining international talent. Previously, students had to leave soon after graduating.

Pensioners also agreed to relax insurance requirements. From September, long-stay visa applicants aged 50 and over will be required to have health insurance of just 440,000 baht (about $12,000), significantly reduced from the previous requirement of 3 million baht.

Perhaps the most groundbreaking of the new policies is the introduction of a five-year visa for the so-called “digital nomads” – self-employed, remote workers who can now stay for up to 180 days at a time, with the possibility of extension. This new visa is aimed at freelancers and professionals in a variety of fields, including technology, creative industries and culinary arts.

Tourism, a key component of Southeast Asia’s second-largest economy, has been severely affected by global events in recent years.

In 2019, Thailand set a record with 39.9 million tourist arrivals, but the number dropped sharply due to the pandemic. With the relaxation of visa regulations, the Thai government is optimistic about the revival of the tourism sector. It aims to attract 40 million visitors by the end of the year, forecasting profits of 3.5 trillion baht ($95.73 billion).

In preparation for these changes, the number of Thai consulates and embassies offering e-visa services will also double by September, increasing accessibility and convenience for potential visitors around the world.

These sweeping changes, which will come into effect on June 1, underline Thailand’s commitment to restoring its status as the world’s top tourist destination while providing its citizens with significant economic benefits and employment opportunities.