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Thailand expands visa-free entry to 93 countries to boost tourism

Thailand expands visa-free entry to 93 countries to boost tourism

Mainland Chinese tourists dressed in traditional Thai costumes visit Wat Arun temple ahead of the Chinese Lunar New Year as China reopens the border in Bangkok, Thailand, January 18, 2023. — Reuters

In a bid to revive its tourism industry, Thailand has expanded visa-free entry to 93 countries and territories.

Under the new plan that came into effect on Monday, visitors can stay in the Southeast Asian nation for up to 60 days, the ministry said. BBC.

Previously, passport holders from 57 countries were allowed to enter without a visa.

It is worth noting that tourism is a key pillar of the Thai economy, although it has not fully recovered from the pandemic.

In the first six months of 2024, Thailand recorded 17.5 million foreign tourist arrivals, up 35% from the same period last year, according to official data. However, the numbers pale in comparison to pre-pandemic levels.

In addition, most of the visitors came from China, Malaysia and India.

Over the same period, tourism revenues amounted to 858 billion baht ($23.6 billion; £18.3 billion), less than a quarter of the government's target.

Millions of tourists flock to Thailand for its golden temples, white sand beaches and picturesque mountains.

The country also introduced a new five-year visa for remote workers on Monday, allowing holders to stay in the country for up to 180 days a year.

In addition, visiting students who earn a bachelor's degree or above in Thailand will also be allowed to stay for one year after graduation to look for work or travel.

Below is the list of 93 countries and territories exempt from visa to enter Thailand for a period of 60 days, according to Business standard: