Thailand Refuses to Shorten Visa-Free Stay for Russians

Thailand will not shorten the visa-free stay period for Russian citizens to 30 days, as had been proposed. The decision was confirmed by TAT Managing Director Tappanee Kiattibutr, who emphasized that no changes will be made through 2025–2027, according to ATOR.

Direct Flights Still Under Discussion

At the TTM+2025 tourism fair in Chiang Mai, the potential return of Thai Airways to the Russian market was also discussed. Kiattibutr noted that talks have taken place and Thai Airways is expected to expand its fleet in the coming months, possibly prioritizing routes to Russia.

Although direct Bangkok–Moscow flights have been under consideration since 2024, they have yet to resume. Experts believe a relaunch is possible in 2025–2026, which would significantly enhance accessibility.

Between January and May 2025, Thailand welcomed 969,711 Russian tourists — a 13.28% increase year-on-year. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) forecasts that this number could reach 1.8–2 million by December.

How Much Does It Cost to Fly?

Thailand remains a popular destination for Russians. In summer 2025, flights to Bangkok and Phuket will be operated by four carriers: charter airlines Red Wings and Ikar, and scheduled airlines Aeroflot and S7. Flights will depart from nine cities including Moscow, St. Petersburg, Yekaterinburg, Sochi, Novosibirsk, Krasnoyarsk, Irkutsk, Khabarovsk, and Vladivostok.

Aeroflot’s scheduled flights are the most expensive: round-trip tickets from Moscow to Phuket range from ₽85,500 to ₽99,100 ($945–1,095). From St. Petersburg, the price is around ₽92,000 ($1,015); from Novosibirsk — from ₽71,200 ($790). Flights to Bangkok start at ₽80,100 ($885) from Moscow, and ₽60,600 ($670) from Irkutsk.

Connecting flights can be significantly cheaper. From Moscow to Phuket, prices start at ₽50,700 ($560) via Shanghai or ₽56,000–57,000 ($620–635) via Sharjah. From St. Petersburg: ₽60,100 ($665); Yekaterinburg: ₽63,000 ($700); Sochi: ₽69,500 ($770). Bangkok flights start at ₽43,400 ($480).

Regular tour packages from Moscow begin at ₽153,900 ($1,700) for 11 nights at a 4-star Phuket hotel. A Pattaya tour costs at least ₽195,400 ($2,155). With layovers, tour prices range from ₽135,000 to ₽142,000 ($1,490–1,570).

Charter tours are the most affordable. PEGAS Touristik, FUN&SUN, Anex, and Intourist offer summer trips to Phuket from six cities. A 12-night package from Novosibirsk to Phoenix Hotel Karon Beach 4★ starts at ₽124,800 ($1,370); from Irkutsk — ₽121,700 ($1,335); from Moscow — ₽165,700 ($1,835) for 9 nights.

Skip Phuket? Get Bonuses for Alternative Destinations

Thailand has also launched a campaign to redirect tourists away from overcrowded beach destinations. Until August 20, 2025, visitors are encouraged to explore lesser-known provinces like Nakhon Si Thammarat, Surat Thani, and islands in the Trat region.

Those who skip Phuket and Pattaya can enjoy discounts at over 50 participating businesses on Ko Chang, Ko Mak, Ko Kut, and in Chanthaburi. The initiative, run in collaboration with Bangkok Airways, also offers a chance to win one of ten free domestic flights by spending 200 baht ($6) or more at approved locations. Winners will be announced on September 1 via social media.

This policy aims to relieve pressure on over-touristed areas and support regional economies.