Thailand and China to Implement Permanent Visa-Free Entry from March
The move, aimed at boosting Thailand's tourism industry, follows a temporary waiver that was due to expire in February.
- Thailand and China will permanently waive visa requirements for each other’s citizens from March, according to Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin.
- Thailand, which heavily relies on tourism, initially waived visa requirements for Chinese tourists until February.
- In 2023, Thailand welcomed 28 million foreign tourists, generating 1.2 trillion baht ($34.93 billion) of revenue.
- Malaysia was the top source of tourists to Thailand with 4.5 million visitors, followed by 3.5 million arrivals from China.
- The decision to permanently waive visa requirements is expected to upgrade the relationship between Thailand and China.