Category Archive For "News"
Thailand’s New ETA Requirement: What Expats and Travelers Need to Know
As of December 2024, Thailand has introduced a new Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) requirement for visa-free visitors, transforming the country’s immigration process. This change impacts travelers from over 100 countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, and European nations, aligning with similar systems already in place globally. In this Pacific Prime Thailand article, we’ll …
Overview of Thailand’s New Tourist Tax
The Thai authorities have pushed forward plans to implement a new tourist tax for every foreign entry to the country, taking effect within the next six months. This initiative signals a significant shift in how tourism revenue will be managed in the country. How much is the new tourist tax charging? What impact is it …
New Guidelines Announced for Safer School Trips in Thailand
Following the school bus fire that saw multiple casualties, supervisory bodies of private and public schools in Thailand have announced new guidelines to ensure better safety for school trips. These include vehicle inspection, parents’ presence, and limited trip distance for example. School trips are a great learning experience, but we also understand parents’ concern for …
New Cash-On Delivery Law Allows Buyers to Inspect Packages
Having taken effect on Thursday, October 3rd, 2024, a new law allows online shoppers using cash-on delivery to open up their packages before making the payment. The law was previously announced back on July 5th and protects both the logistics companies and the customer. Additionally, the law also ensures customers can refuse to make a …
Private Hospitals Consider Leaving the Thai National Health Insurance Scheme
Paiboon Eksaengsri, president of the Private Hospitals Association (PHA), revealed that many private hospitals are considering leaving the Social Security Fund (SSF), a Thai national health insurance scheme that provides health coverage for employees in the private sector. Foreign expats working in Thailand are required to register to the SSF. This Pacific Prime Thailand article …
What Travelers Need to Know About Thailand’s Plan for Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)
A talk is ongoing at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Thailand, about the implementation of electronic travel authorization (ETA) for visa-exempt travelers. This means you might need to apply for an online authorization before entering the Land of Smiles. This Pacific Prime Thailand article has compiled all you need to know about this system, what …
Thailand Expands Maternity Leave to 98 Days: A Boost for Working Women
Thailand is set to enhance its maternity leave policy, extending the leave period from 90 days to 98 days. This move is part of a broader initiative by the Ministry of Labour to improve benefits for Social Security Fund members, aiming to better support working mothers and their families. In this Pacific Prime Thailand article, …
2024 Marriage Equality Bill Impact on Workplaces
The marriage equality bill, also known as the Thailand same sex marriage bill, legalizes same sex marriage in Thailand. These new changes push companies to be more progressive and inclusive with their policies and employee benefits. Wondering what sort of influence the new bill will have on the workplace? In this article, we will explore …
Thailand Grants 60-Day Visa-Free Stay to 93 Countries Starting July 15th
Thailand has unveiled a comprehensive overhaul of its visa policies, aiming to significantly boost tourism and attract a wider range of international visitors. The new measures, which took effect on July 15, 2024, represent a major shift in the country’s approach to foreign travel and residency. One of the most notable changes is the expansion …
Thailand to Roll Out Controversial $13.8 Billion Digital Money Handout to Citizens
Thailand’s prime minister, Mr. Srettha Thavisin, stated on Monday that starting August, eligible businesses and individuals can register for digital cash handouts. This controversial program costing billions of dollars aims to boost Thailand’s lagging economy. In this Pacific Prime Thailand article, we will discuss the controversial billion-dollar digital money handout program from the Thai government. …