Thailand recently announced the expansion of its visa-free entry scheme to 93 countries, allowing visitors to stay for up to 60 days in an effort to boost tourism. The move comes as the country looks to revitalize its tourism industry, which has been hard hit by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The new visa-free entry scheme, which took effect on Monday, is part of a broader plan to attract more tourists to Thailand. The country recorded 17.5 million foreign tourist arrivals in the first six months of 2024, up 35% from the same period last year. However, this is still significantly lower than pre-pandemic levels.
Tourism is a key pillar of the Thai economy, and the new visa-free rules are expected to help provide a much-needed boost. The majority of visitors to Thailand come from China, Malaysia, and India, with tourists flocking to the country for its golden temples, white sand beaches, picturesque mountains, and vibrant nightlife.
In addition to expanding its visa-free entry scheme, Thailand has also introduced a new five-year visa for remote workers, allowing holders to stay for up to 180 days each year. The country will also allow visiting students who earn a bachelor’s degree or higher in Thailand to stay for one year after graduation to find a job or travel.
While the new visa-free rules are expected to attract more tourists to Thailand, some stakeholders have raised concerns about the country’s infrastructure’s ability to keep up with the increased demand. There are fears of a bottleneck in air traffic as incoming flights may not increase in time to meet the demands of travelers.
In addition, there have been safety concerns raised, with rumors circulating that tourists have been kidnapped and sent across the border to work in scam centers in Myanmar or Cambodia. A fatal shooting in Bangkok’s most famous shopping mall last year has also raised concerns among visitors.
It is important for Thailand to address these issues to ensure that tourists have a positive experience and continue to visit the country. By preparing its resources and infrastructure to accommodate the influx of tourists, Thailand can capitalize on the increased interest in visiting the country and boost its tourism industry.Visitors should also be cautious and aware of their surroundings while traveling in Thailand to avoid potential safety risks. Overall, the expansion of Thailand’s visa-free entry scheme is a positive step towards revitalizing the country’s tourism industry, but it is essential to address any challenges that may arise due to the increased number of visitors.
