The Thai government has revealed plans to create more visa options for tourists in an effort to boost the Thai economy.
There are also negotiations underway to create a joint tourist visa between Thailand and five neighbouring countries – Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Vietnam, and Malaysia- namely, VisaGuide.World reports.
This visa type could benefit all six countries in the region and also be a convenient option for international tourists travelling to South East Asia.
DTV – Thailand’s New Visa That Allows Holders Longer Stays in the Country
The introduction of the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) allows foreigners to stay or work in the country for up to 180 days, with the chance of extending their stay for another 180 days.
DTV is valid for up to five years, and the price of obtaining one reaches $280. For those who want to extend their stay for another 180 days, another payment of $280 is required. This visa is expected to attract more remote workers, digital nomads as well as freelancers.
Regardless of the wide array of opportunities with this visa, the Thai government has made sure to introduce some restrictions, especially for online professionals working from Thailand. Those include the requirement for the applicant to have an initial amount of $15,108 and should not gain income from working with the country.
In the first month of this new visa program, Thailand has issued a total of 1,200 DTVs, coming from 47 embassies and consulates worldwide.
Schengen-Like Visa Raises Concerns for National Security of ASEAN Countries
Despite of the new six-in-one visa plan being welcomed, some fear it can raise security concerns. This visa type has yet to be discussed by officials, but countries failing to comply with it could jeopardize Thailand’s goal of becoming a tourism and transit hub in this region of Asia.
Thai diplomacy must be tangible, impactful, and bring real benefits to the people, including boosting the inflow of money into the country.
In addition to this visa, the Thai government has also announced plans to introduce a new travel authorization, which positions the country higher as a tourism destination. Thailand is working to implement an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), which will improve convenience for tourists as well as security.
According to data published by Statista, the number of international tourists in Thailand reached 9.3 million in the first quarter of 2024, which is up from over eight million recorded at the same time in 2023.