On July 15, 2024, Thailand will implement new visa requirements in an effort to stimulate travel and tourism as well as revitalize its economy. Among them are extended student visas, an extension of the 60-day visa exemption, a new Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) for digital nomads, and an expansion of Visa on Arrival (VOA).
The number of countries and territories whose citizens do not need a visa to visit Thailand has increased from 57 to 93. Visitors may stay for up to 60 days under this program for short-term business meetings and tourism, with the option to extend for an additional 30 days at the Immigration Office.
Citizens of 31 countries and territories, instead of only 19, may now apply for VOA at immigration checkpoints upon arrival. Visitors under this program are permitted to stay for up to 15 days for tourism-related purposes, with a 2,000 Baht visa payment. Among the countries that have lately qualified are Armenia, Bolivia, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Ethiopia, Kyrgyzstan, Namibia, Paraguay, Serbia, Seychelles, Tunisia, Vanuatu, and Venezuela.
Also Read: Speed Up Success: The Power of Quick Turnaround Times
Thailand is introducing the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) in an attempt to attract digital nomads, remote workers, and participation in a variety of activities including Muay Thai classes, Thai culinary workshops, sports training, medical treatment, seminars, and music festivals. DTV holders and their spouses with dependent children are permitted multiple entries and a maximum stay of 180 days, which may be further extended for a further 180 days. Applicants must provide proof of funds or a guarantee of at least 500,000 Baht for the duration of their stay in addition to paying a 10,000 Baht visa fee.
After graduating, overseas students seeking higher education are permitted to stay in Thailand for an additional year. During this time, students are free to hunt for employment. If hired locally, they may switch to a Non-Immigration B visa without leaving Thailand.
These new visa limitations are expected to significantly boost Thailand’s economy and encourage long-term growth in the travel and tourism sector by attracting more tourists, remote workers, and students.