in Expat Insurance, Insurance, News
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 of Thailand’s visa-free entry scheme. Under this new policy, citizens from 93 countries and territories will be permitted to enter and stay in Thailand for up to 60 days without the need for a visa.
Wondering which are the 93 eligible countries in this list? This Pacific Prime Thailand article will provide you with the full list of the eligible countries for the new scheme, as well as the full details of the changes made by the Thai government.
List of Eligible Countries for the Visa-Free Stay
The following sections below highlight the 93 countries in Europe, Asia, the Americas, Oceania, and Africa that are eligible for the 60-day visa-free stay in Thailand.
Countries of Europe (40)
Here is a list of 40 European countries eligible for the 60-day visa-free stay in Thailand.
- Albania
- Andorra
- Austria
- Belgium
- Bulgaria
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Georgia
- Germany
- Greece
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Ireland
- Israel
- Italy
- Kosovo
- Latvia
- Liechtenstein
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malta
- Monaco
- Netherlands
- Norway
- Poland
- Portugal
- Romania
- Russia
- Saint-Marin
- Serbia
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- Ukraine
- United Kingdom
Countries of Asia (28)
Here is a list of 28 Asian nations eligible for the 60-day visa-free stay in Thailand.
- Bahrain
- Bhutan
- Brunei
- Cambodia
- Hong Kong
- India
- Indonesia
- Japan
- Jordan
- Kazakhstan
- Kuwait
- Laos
- Macao
- Malaysia
- Maldives
- Mongolia
- Oman
- Philippines
- Qatar
- Saudi Arabia
- Singapore
- South Korea
- Sri Lanka
- Taiwan
- Turkey
- United Arab Emirates
- Uzbekistan
- Vietnam
Countries of the Americas (12)
Here is a list of 12 countries in the Americas that are eligible for the 60-day visa-free stay in Thailand.
- United States
- Canada
- Brazil
- Argentina
- Chile
- Colombia
- Ecuador
- Guatemala
- Mexico
- Panama
- Peru
- Uruguay
Countries in Oceania (4)
Here is a list of the four countries of Oceania that are eligible for the 60-day visa-free stay in Thailand.
- Australia
- Fiji
- New Zealand
- Papua New Guinea
African countries (9)
Here is a list of the nine African countries that are eligible for the 60-day visa-free stay in Thailand.
- South Africa
- Botswana
- Eswatini
- Lesotho
- Malawi
- Maurice
- Namibia
- Seychelles
- Zambia
Destination Thailand Visa (DTV): What is it, and How Does it Work?
The Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) represents a significant step forward in Thailand’s visa offerings, designed to cater to the evolving needs of global remote workers, digital nomads, and long-term visitors.
This new visa category allows for extended stays of up to 180 days per visit, with the added flexibility of multiple entries over a five-year validity period.
The DTV is tailored for a diverse range of individuals, including:
- Skilled professionals and digital nomads who can work remotely
- Freelancers across various industries
- Individuals pursuing specific interests or activities in Thailand, such as:
- Muay Thai training
- Culinary arts and cooking
- Sports training and athleticism
- Medical treatments and wellness programs
- Attendance at seminars and conferences
- Participation in art and music events
Most importantly, the visa also extends to family members of DTV holders. Spouses and children under 20 years of age are eligible to accompany the primary visa holder. This family-friendly approach makes the DTV an attractive option for those looking to relocate with their loved ones.
Conditions to Qualify for DTV
To qualify for the DTV, applicants must demonstrate financial stability. A minimum of 500,000 baht (approximately USD 14,000) is required as proof of financial support or guarantee for the duration of their stay.
The initial DTV application comes with a fee of 10,000 baht (about USD 280) and grants a stay of up to 180 days. One of the most appealing aspects of this visa is its five-year validity, allowing for multiple entries and exits from Thailand during this period.
For those wishing to extend their stay beyond the initial 180 days, a one-time extension of an additional 180 days is available for an extra fee of 10,000 baht.
This new visa category reflects Thailand’s recognition of changing global work patterns and lifestyle preferences. By offering a long-term, flexible visa option, Thailand is positioning itself as a hub for digital nomads and remote workers.
Improvements Made for the Foreign Student Residency Conditions
Thailand has also introduced significant improvements to the conditions of stay for international students as a recognition of their potential contribution to the country’s economy and workforce. These changes are part of a broader strategy to attract and retain talented individuals from around the world.
Under the new regulations, international students pursuing bachelor’s degrees or higher education on nonimmigrant (ED) visas will find it considerably easier to transition into the Thai workforce after completing their studies.
This change addresses a common challenge faced by many international graduates who previously had limited options for remaining in the country post-graduation.
One of the most notable enhancements is the extension of the post-graduation stay period. International graduates will now be permitted to remain in Thailand for up to one year after completing their studies. This extended period can be used for various purposes:
- Job searching: Graduates will have ample time to explore employment opportunities in Thailand’s job market.
- Travel: Students can use this time to further explore Thailand, potentially contributing to domestic tourism.
- Other activities: The policy allows for flexibility, enabling graduates to engage in various pursuits during this transitional year.
Traveling to Thailand? We’ve Got You Covered
Thailand’s recent expansion of its visa-free entry scheme has significantly enhanced its appeal as a destination for international travelers and potential expats. With citizens from 93 countries now able to stay for up to 60 days without a visa, the country has become more accessible than ever.
This change, coupled with the introduction of the Destination Thailand Visa for remote workers and the improvements to student visa conditions, demonstrates Thailand’s commitment to welcoming visitors and long-term residents from around the world.
However, to truly make the most of your experience in Thailand, there’s one crucial step you shouldn’t overlook: securing comprehensive international health insurance.
As an expat, having robust health coverage is paramount. It not only provides peace of mind but also ensures access to high-quality medical care in Thailand’s premier private healthcare facilities.
At Pacific Prime Thailand, we understand the unique needs of expats. With two decades of experience in the international insurance industry, our team is well-equipped to help you find the perfect health insurance plan. We compare offerings from top global insurers to match your specific requirements and budget.
Contact us today to get started, or get an obligation-free quote directly from our online system!
After obtaining his Bachelor’s Degree in Social Sciences, International Relations from Mahidol University International College, Veerabhatr has forged his career as a content writer in the travel, lifestyle, and real estate industries, writing in both English and Thai. He now continues to hone his skills as a writer at Pacific Prime, looking to engage and educate the audience by simplifying insurance.
Writer by day, and a DJ by night, Veerabhatr is a staunch music lover, and listens to all spectrums of genres available. He also loves to drink beer (moderately), eat all types of food, go to the beach, and learn about different cultures across the globe. He is also a die-hard fan of football and motorsports.
- Thailand’s New ETA Requirement: What Expats and Travelers Need to Know - November 13, 2024
- Thailand Grants 60-Day Visa-Free Stay to 93 Countries Starting July 15th - July 17, 2024
- Accessing Telemedicine in Thailand: Benefits and Effective Tips for Expats - April 10, 2024
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