The long-awaited news has finally materialised. At the Council of Ministers meeting on 28 May, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin's government approved a relaxation of the rules governing entry into the kingdom of Thailand. From now on, all travellers visiting for business or tourism purposes will benefit from a free visa on arrival valid for 60 days. The new rule will come into force on 1 January.er It will apply to nationals of 93 countries, instead of 57 previously. This rule will apply in particular to all visitors from Western Europe.
A visa for nomadic workers, among others
A second visa will also be offered. Called the Destination Visa for Thailand" (DTV), It is aimed at foreign visitors wishing to stay in Thailand for an extended period. In particular, this visa will enable nomadic workers to settle down and work remotely, as well as artists and freelancers. This visa will also allow those wishing to learn a traditional Thai activity to stay for a maximum of 180 days, for example to learn Thai boxing or massage. However, it can be extended once.
Finally, this DTV visa will also allow you to stay for medical treatment or for organising seminars. The visa, which costs 10,000 baht (approximately 250 euros), comes with financial conditions. You have to prove to the authorities that you have an income of at least 500,000 baht (€12,560). According to the Thai government, this measure should stimulate tourism, the only booming sector of activity in a country still struggling to recover from nine years of military rule characterised by prolonged economic stagnation.
