Thailand to Introduce a Tourist Entry Fee in the Coming Months

Thai authorities have confirmed plans to introduce a 300-baht (≈$9.20) entry fee for foreign travelers. The Ministry of Tourism aims to launch the mechanism within the first four months of the new government’s term, Khaosod English reports. Proceeds will be directed to a special fund to provide visitor insurance and finance infrastructure projects.

Tourism and Sports Minister Attakorn Sirilatthayakorn noted that the idea has been discussed for years by successive governments but never implemented. Research on the collection mechanism had been completed earlier, yet the rollout was repeatedly delayed. The new cabinet has put the measure in its first four-month program and intends to see it through.

For air travelers, the fee will be 300 baht per entry. The same amount will apply to land or sea entry, though a multiple-entry option for 30–60 days is envisaged in those cases. A lower 150-baht rate was considered but dropped. Final details, including insurance terms, will be confirmed later.

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The fee is part of a broader plan to develop and strengthen the tourism sector. Authorities emphasize that the additional revenue will support infrastructure upgrades, service quality, and traveler safety. Funds will flow into a dedicated account similar to the existing sports fund, covering insurance payouts, infrastructure modernization, and new travel routes. Officials expect the fee to reduce budget spending on compensation for injured tourists. The ministry notes that such fees operate in many countries and help maintain a high level of safety and service.

In summer, Euronews reported the measure was postponed due to lower arrivals and economic uncertainty. In July 2025, the ministry said the rollout would be pushed to mid-2026. By early July 2025, Thailand had welcomed about 17 million foreign visitors—5% fewer year over year.

Tourism—around 20% of GDP—has faced softer demand from key markets, including China. A stronger baht and higher airfares also made trips costlier. However, by the end of nine months, the numbers improved: 23.9 million foreign visitors generated roughly 1.11 trillion baht (≈$34 bn).

Top source markets were Malaysia (3.46 mn) and China (3.38 mn), followed by India (1.76 mn), Russia (1.27 mn), and South Korea (1.13 mn). Authorities expect up to 39.9 million visitors for the full year, approaching pre-COVID levels.

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From an economic perspective, even a small levy can generate significant revenue if arrivals keep rising. According to Broadsheet, a 300-baht fee could raise 11.97 bn baht (≈$365 mn) with 39.9 mn visitors [leech=https://broadsheet.asia/2025/10/06/thailands-new-tourist-entry-fee-sparks-debate-on-tourism-strategy/?utm_source=chatgpt.com]. Analysts argue the fee is a tiny share of travel budgets but comes at a challenging time as tourists worldwide tighten spending amid inflation.

Thailand risks discouraging budget travelers drawn to its beaches, temples, and bustling street markets. The modest levy can stack with other costs—visas, accommodation taxes, transport fees—prompting some to reconsider plans. Vietnam and Malaysia may capture part of the flow with lighter requirements.

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