Thailand Introduces New Visa Programs: Visa on Arrival, Visa Exemptions, Non-ED Plus Visa, and Destination Thailand Visa (DTV)
Thailand has launched several new visa initiatives aimed at simplifying travel for tourists and workers. These programs are designed to enhance tourism and provide easier access for international visitors, making Thailand more accessible and attractive.
Visa on Arrival Program
Effective July 2024, Thailand's new Visa on Arrival program allows travelers from 31 countries and territories (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, Venezuela) to obtain their visas upon arrival for tourism purposes. This program aims to streamline the entry process and promote tourism. Travelers can apply for a Visa on Arrival, provided they meet nationality, purpose of visit, and financial criteria. The application process involves completing the visa form, submitting required documents like a passport, return flight tickets, proof of accommodation, and sufficient funds, and paying the fee upon arrival. The visa is valid for 15 days for a single entry, and the fee is 2,000 THB. This program eliminates the need for prior visa applications, allows flexible travel plans, and reduces waiting times and bureaucratic hurdles.
Visa Exemption (60 Days)
Citizens from 93 countries and territories can now stay in Thailand for up to 60 days for tourism, business, urgent work, or ad-hoc work without a visa. This exemption, effective from July 15, 2024, can be extended for an additional 30 days, subject to the discretion of the immigration officer. Visitors must travel for tourism, business, or urgent/ad-hoc work. For urgent work, the registrar must be notified at any international airport or labor office in Thailand, with the work completed within 15 days.
Non-ED Plus Visa
The Non-ED Plus Visa facilitates international students studying at universities in Thailand at the bachelor's degree level or higher. This visa allows students to extend their stay for one year post-graduation for employment, travel, or other activities. During their studies, students can re-enter Thailand without a re-entry permit, and universities will handle visa extension applications for students.
Destination Thailand Visa (DTV)
The DTV offers remote workers, freelancers, and participants in cultural activities a five-year multiple-entry visa. Holders can stay in Thailand for up to 180 days per entry, with an option to extend for another 180 days. Applicants must be at least 20 years old and can include digital nomads, remote workers, freelancers, and participants in activities like Muay Thai courses and cooking classes. The application process requires documents such as a passport, photographs, financial evidence showing a minimum of 500,000 THB, and proof of visit purpose. The visa fee and extension fee are each 10,000 THB. Since it is a quite new Visa, the application process can be very tricky and take some time. Consulting with FRANK Legal and Tax ensure a smooth application. We can support you with the application for all of Thailands Visa and offer expertise in corporate and taxation matters as well.
These new visa initiatives reflect Thailand's commitment to making the country more accessible and appealing to tourists, remote workers, and international students. The streamlined processes and extended stay options promise to enhance the overall experience for visitors and residents alike.
This article was written by Andreas Seela , lawyer at FRANK Legal and Tax. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us at info@franklegaltax.com or via +66 02 026 3284.
