In an effort to attract more tourists as the peak season approaches, Thailand has announced it will waive visa requirements for visitors from India and Taiwan. This initiative is to be valid from next month until May 2024.
Thailand earlier in September lifted visa requirements for Chinese tourists, targeting the country’s main pre-pandemic tourism market, which saw 11 million arrivals in 2019, up from a record 39 million that year.
From January to October 29, Thailand received 22 million visitors, contributing 927.5 billion baht (about $25.67 billion) to the economy, according to government figures. The visa waiver for Indian and Taiwanese tourists aims to boost the tourism sector and further stimulate the economy.
India has become Thailand’s fourth largest source market for tourism this year, after Malaysia, China and South Korea. With approximately 1.2 million arrivals, inbound tourism from India is showing promising growth due to increased efforts by airlines and hospitality chains to cater to Indian travelers.
Thailand is targeting around 28 million tourists this year, with the government relying on tourism to offset sluggish exports that are weighing on economic growth. The visa waiver for Indian and Taiwanese tourists is expected to play a significant role in achieving this goal and boosting Thailand’s tourism industry.
What does visa cancellation in Thailand mean for you?
According to the Thai Embassy website, “Thailand’s visa-free regime allows tourists from 64 countries to enter Thailand without applying for a visa. Travelers can visit Thailand for up to 30 days if they enter Thailand through an international airport or land border crossing from a neighboring country.”
What you will need to visit Thailand
The Thai Embassy website lists the prerequisites that individuals require when visiting Thailand. In addition to the strict “tourism only” requirement, people must also have a valid passport, a confirmed return ticket that is valid within 30 days of the date of arrival, as well as proof of funds. Here is the list according to the Thai Embassy website:
– Be from an approved country.
– Visit Thailand solely for tourism.
– Hold a valid passport valid for more than 6 months.
– Can provide a valid address in Thailand upon entry that can be verified. This address can be a hotel or an apartment.
– You must have a confirmed return ticket leaving Thailand within 30 days.
