There is good news for Indian travellers! Thailand has extended the visa-free period to Indian nationals indefinitely. Originally set to expire on 11 November 20,24, the policy allows Indians up to 60-days in Thailand without a visa.
The Tourism Authority of Thailand has announced the extension. Business Standard confirmed that officials had given instructions to the Royal Thai Embassy in New Delhi to continue the policy. Business Standard reported that an embassy official said, “Visa free entry extension instructions have been given to us.”
Thailand’s appeal for Indian tourists
Indian tourists looking for destinations that require minimal requirements have been attracted by the visa-free policy. It was implemented in November 20,23 and is currently in effect.
“Indian tourists increasingly seek destinations that offer convenience and variety, without having to endure lengthy visa procedures,” Krishna Rathi said.
Senior country director for India at Agoda. Thailand is the most popular destination for Indian tourists. Accommodation searches have increased since the policy was implemented. Malaysia followed a similar pattern and introduced visa waivers for Indian visitors as early as December 20, 23. This allowed it climb from eighth to fourth place among the most sought-after destinations by Indian travellers during the second half 2024.
“We see the impact of removing visa requirements on inbound travel around the world,” stated Omri Morningshtern, CEO at Agoda.
What is visa-free travel?
Visa-free Entry allows tourists to enter without the need for an on arrival or prior visa. Passports are stamped and checked by immigration control. This simplified procedure is beneficial for both tourists and the economy of the destination.
Visa-free policy can lead to:
- The demand for accommodations is increasing, which increases occupancy rates and rates of rooms.
- Tourism-related sectors generate jobs
- Transportation, tours and other related service are in high-demand.
Растущая популярность Таиланда
Thailand is a very popular destination for Indian tourists. It is well-known for its beautiful beaches and cultural sites, as well as its diverse cuisine. It also offers high-quality accommodations at affordable prices. In the first quarter of 2024, Thailand received 9.4 million foreign tourists, generating approximately 454.6 billion baht (£9.7 billion) in economic contributions. This year Thailand hopes to welcome forty millions tourists. This is close to the peak of pre-pandemic in 2019.
By October 2024, Thailand will have welcomed approximately 1.64 million Indian tourists. India is the third largest foreign visitor source, behind Malaysia and China. TAT anticipates that it will have more than 2 million Indian visitors by the end of this year, generating revenue worth nearly 90 billion Baht. Visa-free travel is a major contributor to this growth.
TAT reported India was Thailand’s 2nd largest source of tourists in 2022. Nearly a half-million Indian tourists were among Thailand’s 11,000,000 foreign arrivals.
