Thailand’s Upcoming Travel Policy Changes: ETA, DTV, and Tourist Fee Developments
Thailand is introducing significant updates to its travel policies, including a new Entry Travel Authorization (ETA), changes to the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV), and the long-discussed tourist entry fee. Here’s a breakdown of the proposed changes and their potential impacts.
Entry Travel Authorization (ETA)
Starting June 2025 (provisionally), tourists from 93 visa-exempt countries, who currently enjoy 60 days on entry with a 30-day extension option, will need to complete a pre-entry ETA application.
- Requirements: Tourists will upload their passport ID page, provide their Thai address, proof of entry and exit tickets, and a phone number via an e-portal.
- Advantages: The system promises quicker airport processing, with travelers using a QR code to bypass immigration counters by accessing electronic gates.
- Costs: The ETA will remain free, though a new submission is required for every entry.
The ETA replaces the current post-arrival TM30 process, which has been inconsistently enforced and relies on outdated paper-based methods.
Destination Thailand Visa (DTV)
Introduced in July 2024, the DTV is a five-year activity visa issued by Thai embassies worldwide. With over 70,000 issued, it allows multiple entries and extensions but has faced ambiguities regarding its practical implementation.
- Challenges: Immigration officers, under the Ministry of Interior, retain discretion to deny entry or extensions, regardless of visa category. This lack of alignment between ministries has caused some uncertainty.
- Current Outlook: Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra supports the DTV, and policy changes are unlikely to affect existing visa holders. Feedback on extensions is expected from January 2025 onwards.
Tourist Entry Fee
The much-discussed 300-baht (US$8) tourist fee, known as Kha Yeap Pan Din, is yet to be implemented.
- Purpose: The fee would fund limited insurance coverage for tourists (e.g., compensation for death or injury) and support infrastructure improvements like upgraded tourist site facilities.
- Variations: Land and sea entries might have reduced fees of 150 baht, though a uniform charge is more likely.
- Challenges: Collection methods remain undecided. Proposals include pre-entry electronic payment linked to Krungthai Bank or integration with the “free” ETA.
Criticism and Uncertainty
Critics argue that the tourist fee may cause confusion and that the revenue generated might not justify the administrative effort. Additionally, the overlap of roles between different government agencies adds complexity to policy implementation.
Thailand’s Retirement, Marriage, Elite, and Long-Term Residence Visas: Updates and Insights for 2025
Thailand continues to refine its visa categories to cater to long-stay foreign residents. From retirement and marriage visas to the Elite and Long-Term Residence (LTR) programs, here’s an overview of the current landscape and expected changes.
Annually Renewable Retirement and Marriage Visas
Retirement Visa (“O” Non-Immigrant)
- Popularity: The most sought-after option for foreigners over 50.
- Banking Reforms: Efforts to eliminate scams involving third-party funds for bank account minimums have stalled.
- Medical Insurance: A key distinction remains between the OA visa (requiring ongoing insurance) and the O visa (no insurance requirement), with no anticipated changes.
Marriage Visa (“O” Non-Immigrant)
- Usage: Primarily for men under 50 married to Thai nationals.
- Same-Sex Marriage: With legal recognition starting in January 2025, same-sex couples may soon be eligible for marriage visas, though regulations around adoption, pensions, and terminal healthcare remain pending.
Elite and Long-Term Residence Visas
Elite Visa
- Duration & Benefits: Ranges from 5–20 years with perks like fast-track immigration and discounts.
- Temporary Offers: The 50,000-baht ($1,500) initial checking fee is waived through 2024. A five-year Bronze Elite visa is available until June 2025 for 650,000 baht ($20,000).
- Subscribers: Dominated by Chinese citizens, with over 40,000 members in total. Despite past closures, the program appears stable for 2025.
Long-Term Residence Visa (LTR)
- Duration: A 10-year multiple-entry visa.
- Eligibility: Open to wealthy retirees (minimum annual income $80,000), business executives, and other categories.
- Tax Benefits: Includes apparent exemptions on income tax for overseas transfers and incentives for businesspeople.
- Statistics: Early reports suggest retirees form the largest applicant group.
Tax Identification Number (TIN) Concerns
- Speculation: Social media rumors suggest that long-term visa renewals might require proof of a TIN from the Thai Revenue Department starting in 2025.
- Reality: This is unlikely, as many foreigners are not tax residents due to limited income transfers to Thailand or non-residency exceeding 180 days annually.
- Immigration Stance: Visa eligibility is not expected to be tied to tax status, simplifying processes for both applicants and immigration officials.
Key Takeaways
- Retirement and Marriage Visas: Stability in requirements, with potential inclusivity for same-sex marriages.
- Elite and LTR Visas: Continued popularity, with new offers and tax incentives adding appeal.
- TIN Requirements: Highly improbable for long-term visa renewals, minimizing bureaucratic hurdles.
As Thailand seeks to balance inclusivity, efficiency, and appeal, these programs reflect the country’s efforts to attract diverse long-term residents while maintaining manageable processes.
What’s Next?
Travelers planning to visit Thailand should stay updated on these developments as implementation details and exact timelines become clearer. With the ETA system and potential fee collection linked to digital platforms, travelers may benefit from faster processing but should prepare for additional pre-entry requirements.
