Thai authorities will now charge entry fees for Kazakhstani travelers
In a recent development, the Thai government has announced that the implementation of the long-anticipated tourist tax, often referred to as the "land entry tax," will be postponed until the second or third quarter of 2026 [1][3][4]. This tax, initially approved in 2021, was originally planned to be implemented in 2022, but multiple delays have been announced since then.
The delays are attributed to "uncontrollable external factors" affecting the tourism industry and the need to monitor international travel demand during the 2025 high season before finalizing the decision [1][3]. The key details of the tax proposal include a fee of 300 baht per air traveler and 150 baht for land or sea arrivals [1][3]. This tax would allow multiple entries within a 30-60 day period and is expected to include basic insurance coverage for foreign tourists during their stay. The collected funds are intended to enhance Thailand's tourism infrastructure and improve tourism services [1][3].
It is important to note that as of mid-2025, no tourist tax is currently charged on foreign arrivals in Thailand, and the exact implementation is now anticipated in mid-2026, with further assessments ongoing throughout 2025 [1][3].
In addition to the tourist tax, the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) system is being introduced to streamline the entry process, replacing the paper TM6 immigration form from May 2025 onwards [2][5]. This system is separate from the tourist tax itself.
The tourism market in Thailand has been experiencing instability due to the opening of a popular destination in Vietnam, which has been undercutting the competition with lower prices [1]. This recent development has had a significant impact on the tourism industry in Thailand, which has historically seen a massive influx of tourists from the CIS.
The exact nature of the new revenue stream the Thai government is seeking is not specified. However, it is clear that the government is looking for new ways to generate income, as tourists bring in huge amounts of money to the country through their purchases and use of services, but a new revenue stream is needed.
Sources: [1] https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/thailand-delays-tourist-tax-until-2026-eyeing-second-quarter-2023-05-18/ [2] https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2128580/thailand-digital-arrival-card-to-replace-paper-tm6-forms-by-may [3] https://www.nationthailand.com/news/30409289 [4] https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2128580/thailand-digital-arrival-card-to-replace-paper-tm6-forms-by-may [5] https://www.nationthailand.com/news/30409289
The postponement of the tourist tax until mid-2026 presents an opportunity for individuals to plan their travel to Thailand without the added expense, given the delay in the implementation of the fee for air and land or sea arrivals. The collection of funds from the tourist tax is intended to bolster Thailand's tourism infrastructure and services, enhancing travelers' lifestyle experiences.
