Breaking News: New Thailand Visa Exemption Announced!
What’s the News?
Sudden changes have been introduced for Thai tourist visas. There are now visa exemptions for tourists originating from Kazakhstan, China, Russia, Taiwan, and India.
It started with a promotion announced by the Thai Government aimed at tourists from China and Kazakhstan who are planning on travelling over to Thailand. As a way to influence more tourists into Thailand, such a move was intended not only to enhance Thailand’s already robust tourism economy, but to also harden the bond between China and Kazakhstan as part of an international trade agreement.
The Thai government has recently announced the quick-win policy, a scheme built to promote and expand tourism within the Land of Smiles. This would involve extending visa exemptions for Russia, Taiwan and India. Starting early November, tourists arriving in Thailand from these three territories will be able to travel visa-free within the country for a temporary period of time.
What Do I Gain?
China and Kazakhstan
If you’re a Kazakhstani or Chinese national (or simply hold a passport from these regions) and desire to travel to Thailand, you would be happy to know that you’re allowed to stay in the country for 30 days under a visa exempt status. During these 30 days, you do not need to apply for a visa.
From September 25, 2023 to February 29, 2024, tourists from both countries will be granted access to this scheme. At no additional fees, you can enjoy some relaxation time in Thailand without having to apply for a visa. Simply grab your passport and your plane ticket to be on your way.
Russia
For Russian tourists, they will be able to stay in Thailand without a Thai tourist visa for a maximum of 90 days. This is a significant boost from the old 30 days period that applicants were granted initially. This policy will be in place from November 1, 2023 all the way to April 30, 2024.
Taiwan and India
For tourists flying in from Taiwan and India, they will be able to stay visa-free in Thailand for a maximum of 30 days. Their visa exemption will start from November 10, 2023 and will conclude on May 10, 2024.
What Do I Need to Bring?
If you are from any of these listed territories, here is what you would need to bring:
- Your passport (valid over 6 months or more).
- Your flight ticket for a return flight.
- Proof of funds.
- Proof of temporary accommodation within Thailand (such as hotel booking).
Technically, you should only need your passport. But, in case you are asked at immigration, it is worth packing these other items along for the ride. Simply present the items to the visa officer at the border for passage into Thailand.
It is also recommended to acquire health insurance in Thailand too. Being insured takes a lot off your mind while travelling and also lets you save money on the go. As a result, we recommend applying for insurance at AXA, a leading insurance provider in Thailand.
Can I Extend the Exemption Period?
If you would like to stay longer than what is provided, you would need to request for an extension from Thai immigration. Whether you can extend or not is up to the discretion of the immigration officers. Exemptions can only be extended an additional 7 to 30 days.
As it is the high season for Thai tourism at this moment, the Thai government is trying their best to continue increasing the flow of tourists into the country. As a powerful member of the ASEAN sphere, much of Thailand’s economy revolves around tourism and the more tourists arriving in the country the merrier. These exemption plans help to boost the economy as well as grant tourists the chance to explore Thailand before committing to a longer term stay.
What if I Need Some Help?
Need support or have any questions that require answering, consider contacting Siam Legal. As a leading law firm in Thailand, Siam Legal has all the professional help you need to ensure that your journey is as relaxing and worry free as possible.
Category: Thailand Visa
