Bangkok, July 16 (AseanAll)  —The Thai Government announced new visa measures to facilitate foreign tourists’ entry into the Kingdom and boost the country’s economy through tourism promotion. The new visa measures took effect on 15 July 2024, after the Ministry of Interior of Thailand had issued related ministerial notifications.

According to the new measures, nationals of 93 countries and territories (up from 57 previously) are entitled to visa exemption for the purposes of tourism and short-term business engagements for a period not exceeding 60 days, which can be extended at the Immigration Office for another period not exceeding 30 days.

Nationals of the 31 countries and territories (up from 19 previously) may apply for visa on arrival, for the purpose of tourism, when they arrive at the immigration checkpoints, for a period not exceeding 15 days. The visa fee is 2,000 baht.

Under the Non-ED Plus Visa measure, Thailand allows foreign students of higher education to extend their stay for one more year after graduation. They can also find work during the extended period and, if employed locally, could apply for a new type of visa without having to leave Thailand. The Non-ED Plus Visa measure aims to facilitate international students studying at universities in Thailand at the bachelor's degree level or above. 

Thailand has also introduced a new visa measure “Destination Thailand Visa (DTV)” for remote workers, “digital nomads,” and freelancers, as well as participants of such activities as Muay Thai courses, Thai cooking classes, sport training, medical treatments, seminars, and music festivals. Spouses and dependent children of DTV holders will also be eligible.

Foreigners wanting to apply for this visa must have a proof of funds or a guarantee of not less than 500,000 baht for the duration of stay. The visa fee is 10,000 baht, with a period of stay up to 180 days per visit, on a multiple-entry basis within five years.