Thailand has introduced new measures aimed at bolstering tourism, particularly for Malaysian visitors.
Commencing June 1, Malaysian tourists can enter Thailand without a visa upon arrival, extending their stay to a maximum of 60 days, doubling the previous visa-free duration. This initiative, disclosed by VisaGuide.World, aims to streamline travel procedures and promote tourism.
With this update, a total of 93 countries, including Malaysia, are now granted visa-free entry for stays up to 60 days, an increase from the previous 57. Additionally, the roster of nations eligible for visa-on-arrival has expanded from 19 to 31.
Among the countries benefiting from visa-free stays are significant tourism contributors like China, India, the United States, the United Kingdom, and others including Albania, the United Arab Emirates, Cambodia, Jamaica, Kazakhstan, Laos, Mexico, Morocco, Panama, Romania, Sri Lanka, and Uzbekistan.
Furthermore, Thailand’s cabinet has endorsed visa-on-arrival for 31 nations, broadening from the prior count of 19. Noteworthy additions to this list encompass Armenia, Saudi Arabia, Serbia, Fiji, and Malta.
Extended Visa Validity for Digital Nomads and Other Enhancements
In addition to facilitating short-term tourism, Thailand is extending support for digital nomads seeking prolonged stays and remote work opportunities. Visa validity for this category will now span five years, with each stay permitting up to 180 days.
Furthermore, the country will permit foreign university graduates to stay for a year post-graduation and relax insurance requirements for long-term foreign retirees.
Tourism Goals and Source Market Focus
Thailand’s Ministry of Tourism and Sports has reported welcoming over 14.32 million tourists thus far and aims to attract at least 35 million foreign arrivals by year-end.
To achieve this target, Thailand is focusing on key source markets, notably China and India. The recent Labor Day holiday witnessed a notable 212 percent increase in travel from China to Thailand via Kazakhstan. Likewise, increases were observed in Singapore, Azerbaijan, Malaysia, and the Maldives following visa policy relaxations.
In 2023, Thailand welcomed over 1.6 million Indian travelers, making India the country’s fourth-largest source market. These visitors contributed more than $1.7 billion in spending.
Thailand’s proactive approach to tourism enhancement, exemplified by recent visa policy adjustments, underscores its commitment to fostering tourism growth and strengthening ties with key source markets.