Thailand to extend visa-free entry for Chinese tourists

BANGKOK: Thailand will extend visa-free entry for Chinese visitors, Thai officials said on Tuesday, ensuring access to a key market that could boost the nation´s battered tourism economy.

Bangkok granted Chinese tourists visa exemptions last year under a temporary scheme that was due to expire February 29.

Government spokesperson Chai Watcharong said the programme would be extended, after talks with Beijing which could also see Thais permitted to travel visa-free to China.

“We have reached an informal consensus that we would allow tourists from two countries to travel to one another permanently,” he said in a press conference following the first cabinet meeting of 2024.

He added that the proposal would be formalised before the end of February, taking effect on March 1. If approved, Chinese and Thai nationals will be able to stay for up to 30 days per visit.