Tourism/VISA free

Chatrudee Theparat

The cabinet endorsed an improved Thai visa system to allow 93 visa-free countries to stay in Thailand for 60 days, aimed at boosting the national economy.

Previously the Thai government allowed 57 visa-free countries to stay in Thailand only for 30 days.

The government projected to lose 12.30 billion baht in revenue, but its loss would be offset by the significantly rising number of foreign arrivals.

Prime Minister Settha Thavisin announced after the cabinet meeting that the cabinet approved measures and guidelines for visa procedure to promote tourism and stimulate the country's economy.

“This is a proposal of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOF) such as granting the right to exempt visas which allow visitors to stay in Thailand not exceeding 60 days. As well as additional measures of a new type of Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) will be launched.”

He said the cabinet also endorsed improving rights for international students entering to study a bachelor's degree or higher degrees. The government will extend the length of stay in Thailand for another one year after graduation.

In addition, there is the improvement of the criteria and conditions for temporary long-stay visas for elderly who wish to spend their final days in Thailand.

The important issues include granting visa exemption rights to stay in Thailand for not exceeding 60 days which is a unilateral measure by Thailand, beginning from June 30. There are totally 93 countries to get qualified for the measure.

Out of 93 countries, there are 57 countries had received the original right to stay for 30 days. Under new measures, they are eligible to stay for 60 days.

Chai Wacharonke

“This measure also includes a new type of Destination Thailand Visa (DTV). DTV is for foreigners who have the skills and ability to work remotely through a digital system called “remote workers” or “digital Nomad” who wish to stay in Thailand. Those are groups that want to work and travel at the same time while their employers and customers are abroad,” Government spokesman Chai Wacharonke, said.

The government also improved rights for international students studying a bachelor's degree or higher degree. The government allows them to extend their stay in Thailand after graduation by one year to find work, travel, or do other activities in Thailand. Previously, they were required to leave immediately after graduation.

The government also adjusted the criteria for temporary stays or long-term employees, or long stay for the group of senior citizens who wish to continue their retirement in Thailand, beginning this September as well.

The government adjusted the criteria: reduce health insurance payments from 3 million baht to 40,000 baht for outpatients and 400,000 baht for inpatients.

Thailand has not improved visa measures and guidelines for 22 years.

“Under the visa exemption measure, the government will lose approximately 12.30 billion baht a year. The measures to facilitate international students will cause the government to lose revenue of 152 million baht. However, the measures can be beneficial to boost the overall economy," Mr Chai said.