In a significant move that makes travel to Thailand more accessible for Indians, the country has decided to extend its visa-free entry facility for Indian travelers “until further notice.” Originally implemented on November 10, 2023, the policy was set to expire on November 11, 2024. However, the Tourism Authority of Thai (TAT) announced on Wednesday that the visa-free arrangement will continue indefinitely, marking the country as a top travel choice for Indians seeking both convenience and affordability.
New Opportunities for Indian Tourists and Travelers in Thailand
The visa-free entry scheme allows Indians to travel to Thailand for tourism and short-term business purposes without the hassle of securing a visa. With this visa-free arrangement, visitors are permitted to stay for up to 60 days, with the option to extend their stay for an additional 30 days through local immigration offices.
The facility saves Indian travelers approximately ₹3,000 in visa fees and eliminates the need for documentation such as bank statements, foreign exchange proofs, and hotel bookings, streamlining the planning process for a hassle-free vacation or business trip.
The decision to extend visa-free entry is already having a noticeable impact. According to a TAT official, “Between January and October 15 of this year, over 16.1 million Indian travelers visited the country, a substantial increase compared to the same period last year.” This growth highlights how Thailand’s welcoming policies are drawing a record number of Indian tourists.
Airlines Ramp Up Direct Flights from India
With the rise in Indian tourism, airlines are bolstering their flight schedules to meet demand. In November, IndiGo will introduce a second direct flight from Kolkata to Bangkok, offering services four days a week, while Thai Air Asia has launched direct flights to Phuket from Kolkata. This expansion in connectivity is expected to further fuel tourism and encourage last-minute travel plans among Indians.
Calcutta-based businessman Vashdev Bahrunani, who recently traveled to Phuket with his family during the Durga Puja holiday, shared his enthusiasm about the visa-free facility. “The ease of travel has certainly made Thailand my go-to destination. We’ve traveled across the globe, but the visa-free entry and proximity of Thailand make it an ideal choice for a repeat visit,” said Bahrunani. He plans to return to Thailand this Christmas to explore new destinations.
Boost in Weddings and Group Travels from India to Thailand
The impact of the visa-free policy isn’t just limited to individual tourism; it has also opened up Thailand as an attractive location for Indian weddings and group travel. Anil Punjabi, a member of the Travel Agents Federation of India, emphasized that this move has made Thailand a leading choice for large gatherings. “There’s been a notable increase in weddings and group tours to Thailand, especially from Kolkata. Many are now able to plan short holidays or last-minute trips thanks to the visa-free benefit,” Punjabi explained.
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