After Sri Lanka, Thailand Announces Visa-Free Visits For Indian Tourists

New Delhi: To attract more tourists during the high season, Thailand has announced visa-free entry for travellers from India and Taiwan for a period of six months, starting next month, Bloomberg reported on Tuesday.

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin said that travellers from India and Taiwan will enjoy visa-free entry to Thailand from November 10, 2023, to May 10, 2024. The decision was taken following a cabinet meeting since a lot of their people like to travel to Thailand from these countries, he was quoted as saying by AFP.

Those arriving from India and Taiwan can stay visa-free in Thailand for up to 30 days, spokesperson Chai Wacharonke said, adding that the scheme would attract 1.4 million extra tourists, generating additional 55 billion baht or $1.5 billion in revenue.

As of now, Indian and Taiwanese tourists have to apply for a 15-day visa-on-arrival at immigration checkpoints, present bank statements and proof of accommodation.

This comes a week after Sri Lanka Cabinet approved issuing of free visas to India, China, Russia, Malaysia, Japan, Indonesia and Thailand with immediate effect as a pilot project till March 31. Before this, Indians were required to submit an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) document upon arrival. This ETA was valid for 30 days and cost Rs 2080 approximately.