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The Thai government has announced an extension to the length of stay permitted for citizens of 93 countries, with 60 days the new limit. Visa on arrival (VoA) services are also now available for 31 countries, and a new digital nomad visa allowing stays up to 180 days over a period of 5 years.

The new regulations, which have been designed to further boost the tourism sector, came into effect from 15 July onwards. From now on, Thailand will grant visa exemption for nationals of 93 countries and territories, which is an increase from the 57 countries on the previous list.

Under the new rules, those travelling for tourism purposes and ‘short-term business engagements’ will now be allowed to stay for up to two months (60 days). This can also be extended for an additional 30 days at the Immigration Office, giving visitors a total of 3 months (90 days) to enjoy themselves in the Land of Smiles.

Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has confirmed that nationals of 31 countries and territories (up from 19 countries previously) can now apply for a VOA at immigration checkpoints when they land. Visitors under this scheme will be allowed to stay for tourism purposes for a period not exceeding 15 days. The visa fee is 2,000 Baht.

Eligible countries include Armenia, Belarus, Bhutan*, Bolivia, Bulgaria*, China*, Costa Rica, Cyprus*, El Salvador, Ethiopia, Fiji*, Georgia*, India*, Kazakhstan*, Kyrgyzstan, Malta*, Mexico*, Namibia, Nauru, Papua New Guinea*, Paraguay, Romania*, Russia*, Saudi Arabia*, Serbia, Seychelles, Taiwan*, Tunisia, Uzbekistan*, Vanuatu and Venezuela.

*Countries/Territories also eligible for the 60-day visa exemption scheme.

In addition, Thailand is also introducing a new visa option for remote workers, digital nomads and freelancers, called the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV). This also applies to travellers taking part in short-term activities such as Muay Thai courses, Thai cooking classes, sports training, medical treatments, seminars and music festivals. Under the new rules, spouses and dependent children of DTV holders will also be eligible. Foreigners who wish to apply for this visa must have a proof of funds or a guarantee of no less than 500,000 Baht for the duration of stay. The visa fee is 10,000 Baht.

DTV holders, together with their spouses and dependent children, will be entitled to a five-year stay with multiple entries for cumulative stays not exceeding 180 days, which can also be extended for a further 180 days.

The full list of countries eligible for the new 60-day (with a 30-day extension) visa is outlined below:

(below) The full list of countries eligible for the new 60-day visa