World

Thailand extends visa-free entry for visitors from 93 countries

Southeast Asian country approves new scheme in bid to boost tourism

By Web Desk

July 16, 2024

Locals and tourists play with water as they celebrate the Songkran holiday which marks the Thai New Year in Bangkok, Thailand, April 13, 2023. — Reuters

Thailand has expanded the scheme of its visa-free entry to 93 countries and territories in a bid to revitalise its tourism industry.

Under the new scheme that took effect on Monday, visitors can stay in the Southeast Asian nation for up to 60 days, reported BBC.

Earlier, passport holders belonging to 57 countries were permitted to enter without a visa.

Notably, tourism is a key pillar of the Thai economy, however, it has not fully recovered from the pandemic.

In the first six months of 2024, Thailand recorded 17.5 million foreign tourists arrivals, which is up 35% from the same period last year, as per the official data. However, the numbers pale in comparison to pre-pandemic levels.

Moreover, the majority of the visitors were from China, Malaysia and India.

During the same period, tourism revenue came in at 858 billion baht ($23.6bn; £18.3bn), which is less than a quarter of the government's target.

For its golden temples, white sand beaches and picturesque mountains, millions of tourists flock to Thailand.

The country also introduced a new five-year visa for remote workers on Monday. This allows holders to stay for up to 180 days each year.

Additionally, visiting students, who earn a bachelor’s degree or higher in Thailand will also be allowed to stay for one year after graduation to find a job or travel.

Following is the list of 93 countries and territories exempt from visa entry into Thailand for a time period of 60 days, according to Business Standard: