Thailand Expands Visa-Free Entry Scheme to 93 Countries

Key Takeaways

• As of July 15, citizens from 93 countries can enter Thailand visa-free.
• Visitors can now stay in Thailand for up to 60 days under the new policy.
• The Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) will be launched, targeting digital nomads and freelancers.

Expanded Visa-Free Entry

Starting July 15, citizens from 93 countries and territories can enter Thailand without visa requirements. This significant increase from the previous 57 regions allows visitors to stay up to 60 days, aiming to boost tourism and simplify travel for international visitors.

New Visa Options

Destination Thailand Visa (DTV)

• Launch Date: July 15
• Target Audience: Digital nomads, freelancers, and visitors interested in learning skills such as cooking and martial arts.
• Validity: 180 days per stay, valid for five years.

Extended Stay for Students

• Eligibility: Visiting students with a bachelor’s degree or higher from Thailand.
• Duration: One-year stay after graduation to seek employment, travel, or conduct other activities.

Tourism Impact

Foreign arrivals in Thailand until July 7, 2024, increased by 35% compared to last year, reaching 18.2 million visitors and generating revenue of 858 billion baht (S$31.8 billion). China, Malaysia, and India have been the top sources of tourists this year. The country is targeting a record of 40 million visitors in 2024, aiming to match pre-pandemic levels.

Eligible Countries for Visa-Free Entry

Europe (40 countries)

• Albania, Andorra, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, 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, San Marino, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Ukraine, United Kingdom.

Asia (28 countries)

• 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 countries)

• United States, Canada, Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Guatemala, Mexico, Panama, Peru, Uruguay.

Oceania (4 countries)

• Australia, Fiji, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea.

Africa (9 countries)

• South Africa, Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Malawi, Mauritius, Namibia, Seychelles, Zambia.

FAQs