Thailand exempts Dominican Republic and other countries from Visa requirements

Bangkok.- Thailand has increased the number of visa-exempt countries for travel from 57 to 93, now including several Latin American nations such as the Dominican Republic, Mexico, Colombia, Cuba, Panama, and Uruguay. This change, announced by Thai authorities several months ago, extends the permitted stay for visitors from 30 to 60 days, aiming to boost tourism in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic. The new visa policy takes effect from this Tuesday.

Previously visa-free countries like Spain, Argentina, Brazil, Chile, and Peru remain exempt, while the extension now also applies to additional Latin American countries including Ecuador and Guatemala. This update was published in the Royal Gazette, Thailand’s official bulletin, on Monday night.

Additionally, Thailand has introduced a special visa for digital nomads, remote workers, and visitors attending Thai boxing courses, cooking classes, and other events. This visa allows for a maximum stay of 180 days with a multi-entry validity of five years. As one of Asia’s top tourist destinations, known for its tropical beaches, natural parks, temples, and vibrant nightlife, Thailand aims to revitalize its tourism sector.

In the past year, Thailand has signed agreements with countries like China, India, and Russia to waive visa requirements or extend stay permits to rejuvenate tourism, which once contributed 12 to 20 percent of its GDP before the pandemic. In 2023, around 28 million foreign tourists visited Thailand, with major contributors including Malaysia, China, South Korea, India, and Russia. The Ministry of Tourism anticipates a stronger recovery in 2024, targeting around 35 million international visitors. Before the pandemic, Thailand welcomed nearly 40 million tourists, with Chinese travelers accounting for over 27 percent.