Thailand has announced two new visa options for travellers, offering the chance for UK tourists to stay up to 60 days.
They are a 60-day visa exemption and extension for tourism purposes and a new Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) for digital nomads. Both visas are available now.
“This is a great sales opportunity for agents, to sell longer trips filled with more experiences and tours,” said Ms. Sadudee Sangnil, Director of the TAT London office.
“The UK and Ireland have always been visa exempt, but we are excited to see the validity extend to 60 days with the option of 90 days. Thailand is such a diverse country with so much to explore and the option to stay for up to 3 months provides an opportunity for visitors to travel at a more leisurely pace and see and experience more.”
The 60-day visa exemption encourages longer stays for clients, particularly those from the UK and Ireland.
Its DTV visa, meanwhile, is designed for remote workers, digital nomads and freelancers. Participants of activities such as Muay Thai courses, Thai cooking classes, sport training, medical treatments, seminars and music festivals are also included.
Valid for five years and multiple entries, the DTV visa is for cumulative stays not exceeding 180 days. This period can then be extended for another 180 days. Spouses and dependent children of DTV holders will also be eligible.
The DTV visa is 10,000 Baht (around £221). Applicants must have proof of funds or a guarantee of no less than 500,000 Baht (around £1,100) for the duration of their stay.
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is currently updating agents on the country’s new visa rules.
Sangnil added: “The over 50s traveller continues to be the strongest market and this new visa option is ideal for retirees looking to travel for longer, particularly over the winter months where they can stay in Thailand where it is warm and offers excellent value for money.”
