Interior Ministry Issues New Guidelines for Destination Thailand Visa and Visa-Exempt Tourist Rules
The Interior Ministry has released updated guidelines for the highly anticipated Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) and the extension of visa-exempt stays for tourists from 30 to 60 days. The DTV is considered groundbreaking, as it allows remote workers to work for overseas companies or contractors without requiring a Thai work permit. However, the ministry emphasized that such work “must not impinge in any way on the Thai economy,” a broad restriction that has sparked some debate.
For tourists entering Thailand under the new 60-day visa exemption, caution is advised when engaging in non-tourism activities. In July, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) initially announced that “ad hoc or urgent work” could be undertaken for up to 15 days, provided the tourist notified the Department of Labor. Examples included attending conferences, repairing machinery, auditing accounts, or inspecting products.
However, the Interior Ministry has now clarified that while attending occasional meetings is acceptable, more substantial activities will require a temporary work permit. Tourists can obtain a maximum of two 15-day work permits. In response to complaints about the ambiguity of the rules, the ministry assured that more detailed regulations would be provided soon.
This update aligns with the 10 priorities announced by the Pheu Thai government for the coming year, which include a significant “overhaul of visa processing.” This reform may also involve reducing the number of non-immigrant visa types by integrating functions such as medical tourism, family visas, and movie production permits into the new DTV. The rules for retirees under OA and O extensions of stay may also be revised.
Further clarification is expected regarding the ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization), which will require all visa-exempt travelers to obtain permission before traveling to Thailand starting next year. This system will be integrated with the visa-issuing database, allowing authorities to check for past criminal convictions, deportations, and Interpol warrants.
The immigration bureau, responsible for implementing these visa rules at airports and borders, has remained silent on the changes so far. With various agencies, including the TAT, Board of Investment, Cabinet, and Department of Labor, involved in visa publicity, the upcoming reforms present an opportunity for immigration to play a larger role in shaping the new visa landscape.
