Thailand’s e-Visa Option Now Available in 16 Additional Countries
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Loading... - Chiyo Miao
- 11 Oct 2024
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Thailand has expanded its electronic visa (e-Visa) service to 16 additional countries, making it available in a total of 39 countries and 59 embassies and consulates worldwide. This initiative by the Thai Department of Consular Affairs aims to simplify the visa application process, allowing travelers to apply online without needing to visit an embassy or consulate in person. The e-Visa service now covers a broader range of locations across the Americas, Europe, Asia, Africa, and Oceania.
In addition to the e-Visa expansion, Thailand is set to introduce an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system for travelers from visa-exempt countries. The ETA system is designed to enhance the tracking of visa-exempt visitors and expedite the immigration process. By June 2025, the ETA is expected to be fully integrated with the e-Visa service into a single online application platform. While the ETA will require approval for each visit, it is anticipated to be free and facilitate streamlined processing at immigration checkpoints.
As of July 15, citizens from 93 countries can enter Thailand visa-free, up from the previous 57 regions, allowing stays of up to 60 days. This policy aims to boost tourism and ease travel to Thailand. Additionally, a new visa category called the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) will be introduced, targeting digital nomads, freelancers, and those interested in learning skills such as cooking and martial arts. The DTV will allow stays of up to 180 days and will be valid for five years.
The Thai government is also planning to introduce more tourist visa options to stimulate the economy. Negotiations are underway to establish a joint tourist visa with five neighboring countries: Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Vietnam, and Malaysia. This collaborative visa initiative aims to further enhance regional tourism and economic cooperation.
