Particle.news

Download on the App Store

Thailand Revives Tourist Entry Fee Plan With Four-Month Decision Target

No charge applies yet because any fee must be formally published in the Royal Thai Government Gazette.

Overview

  • Tourism Minister Atthakorn Sirilatthayakorn said on Oct. 3 that a decision on the long-debated levy will be made within four months.
  • The reported design would charge 300 baht per international arrival via the mandatory Digital Arrival Card, with land and sea fees lifted from an earlier 150-baht plan to 300 baht.
  • Exemptions under discussion include children under two, diplomats and transit passengers, and the proposal contemplates allowing 30–60 day multiple entries.
  • Officials say the revenue would fund visitor insurance and tourism infrastructure and help relieve pressure on the state budget.
  • The measure has stalled repeatedly since 2020 despite cabinet approval in 2023, and uncertainty persists as visitor numbers remain below 2019 levels and political timelines are tight.