Thailand has introduced an indefinite visa-free entry policy for Indian travelers, allowing them to stay in the country for up to 60 days per visit.

Thailand has declared that Indian nationals now have indefinite visa-free access to the country, extending a policy initially scheduled to end on November 11, 2024.

Under the new policy, Indian travelers can now stay in Thailand visa-free for up to 60 days, with the option to extend their stay by an additional 30 days at a local immigration office, as reported by India Today.

The extension of visa-free travel for Indian tourists brings added convenience for visiting Thailand, a popular holiday destination celebrated for its beautiful beaches and vibrant cultural heritage.

Previously, obtaining a Thai visa required fees, paperwork, and sometimes a wait time. With the removal of these requirements, the number of Indian tourists soared to approximately 16.17 million from January to mid-October 2024. Visa-free access has also encouraged spontaneous weekend trips.

Thailand’s government first implemented a visa-free entry policy for Indian citizens in November 2023, originally set to be valid for one year.

The surge in tourism revenue from Indian travelers led authorities to make visa-free entry for Indians a permanent policy.

Malaysia, along with Thailand, introduced a visa-free entry policy for Indian travelers, quickly making it the fourth most-searched travel destination among Indians within six months.

This year, Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, and Vietnam have experienced a significant surge in tourism, recording a total of 70 million visitors, a substantial number of whom are Indian travelers.

In response to the recent surge in tourism, Thailand’s Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has suggested the introduction of a Schengen-style visa for all six Southeast Asian nations, according to Bloomberg.

This initiative seeks to create a smooth travel experience across borders, facilitating easier movement for tourists and further enhancing the region’s tourism industry.

Keep up with the latest visa news by following VisaBud!