Thailand Ends Visa-Free Travel for Asia and Australia Starting December 2024

In a significant shift for travellers, Thailand will end visa-free entry for several Asian countries and Australia, effective 1 Dec 2024. This move requires citizens from nations like the Philippines, China, India, Japan, South Korea, and Australia to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before visiting the country. Thailand's new policy aims to strengthen border security and modernise its immigration system.

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What we know about Thailand ending visa-free travel for Asia and Australia

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Previously, travellers from several Asian and Australian nations enjoyed visa-free access to Thailand, but under the new rules, an ETA will be mandatory. The affected countries include major tourism markets such as China, India, Japan, and the Philippines. While the ETA system starts in December 2024, it will be fully operational by June 2025.

The ETA is a digital document that can be applied for online via Thailand’s official e-Visa portal. It allows single-entry visits of up to 60 days and is free of charge. Travellers looking to extend their stay can apply for a one-time extension of 30 days, offering flexibility for longer trips.

The introduction of the ETA is part of Thailand’s broader plan to enhance border security and improve immigration control. In addition to tightening security, the ETA system is designed to streamline the entry process, making it more efficient for both tourists and immigration officials. Automated clearance gates, QR code-based entry, and other digital features will ensure a faster, smoother arrival experience for travellers.

Countries Impacted

The list of countries required to apply for an ETA includes India, China, Japan, South Korea, Australia, Singapore, and the Philippines, among others. These nations represent a large portion of Thailand’s tourist arrivals. In 2023 alone, Thailand welcomed over 3.5 million visitors from China, 1.6 million from India, and 4.4 million from Malaysia.

However, travellers from Laos and Malaysia will continue to enjoy visa-free access to Thailand, making them the only two Asian nations exempt from this new rule.

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The new regulations mean that millions of travellers accustomed to visa-free entry must now secure an ETA before visiting Thailand. Failure to do so could result in penalties, emphasising the importance of compliance with the new rules. While this adds an extra step for tourists, Thailand hopes the streamlined ETA process will balance security with convenience, ensuring the country remains a top destination for travellers from across Asia and beyond.

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