It's now an open secret: the Kingdom of Thailand will soon be announcing an extension of the tourist visa exemption regime for many Western nationalities to 45 days.
L'visa exemption for 45 days in Thailand is a measure enabling certain travelers to stay in Thailand for up to 45 days without needing to apply for a visa in advance. This measure was introduced in 2021 to boost the return of tourists to the Kingdom, hard hit by the aftermath of Covid.
This visa exemption applies to citizens of certain countries who meet certain criteria, such as holding a passport valid for at least six months, a confirmed return ticket and sufficient funds to cover their stay in Thailand.
The Thailand visa waiver for tourist stays of less than 45 days was to remain in force until March 31, 2023. It is due to be extended for a further 9 months, until December 31, 2023. At the end of January Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) recommended that the government extend the measure until the end of the year. Formalization is expected by the end of March.
It is important to note that this visa exemption for 45 days in Thailand can be extended for a maximum of 30 additional days for 1900 baths (51 €), by going to the Immigration Office in Thailand and completing the necessary formalities before the initial 45-day period expires.
