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On May 28, 2024, Thailand’s Cabinet approved a series of new visa measures to boost tourism and the economy. These measures, presented by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, are the first major updates in 22 years and will be rolled out in three phases starting June 2024, Wego reports.
This will make travel into the Kingdom easier with longer stay period for tourists, new type of visa ie. Destination Thailand Visa (DTV), 1-year post-graduation stay permit for university students, and improved requirements for retirement visa.
— PR Thai Government (@prdthailand) May 28, 2024
A key highlight is the introduction of the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV), designed to attract digital nomads and remote workers. This new visa allows foreigners with remote work capabilities to live and work in Thailand, combining professional responsibilities with travel and cultural experiences.
Glad to announce 🇹🇭 new visa measures which aim to promote & boost the country’s tourism sector and economy.
The effective date will be announce upon the completion of the final legal procedures. pic.twitter.com/zpiskmC53c— Thailand in India (@ThailandinIndia) May 29, 2024
Other short-term measures, effective from June 2024, include granting travelers from 93 countries the ability to stay in Thailand for up to 60 days without a visa, thereby enhancing international relations and boosting tourism.
Furthermore, the Visa on Arrival (VOA) option will be extended to visitors from countries without Thai embassies or consulates, considering reciprocity in international relations and security. Additionally, the visa process for international students pursuing higher education in Thailand will be streamlined to attract and retain skilled individuals. A Visa Policy Committee will also be established to oversee and refine Thailand’s visa policies.
Medium-term measures, starting between September and December 2024, will include reducing the number of non-immigrant visa categories from 17 to 7 for better efficiency, adjusting criteria for elderly foreigners wishing to retire in Thailand, and expanding e-visa services to cover 50% of all Thai embassies and consulates worldwide.
Long-term measures, effective June 2025, involve implementing an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system for visa-exempt travelers, utilizing advanced technology to streamline entry processes and enhance security.
Overall, these initiatives aim to revitalize Thailand’s tourism sector, which was significantly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. By simplifying visa processes and introducing new visa types, the government hopes to attract more tourists, skilled workers, and students, thereby boosting the economy.
