Thailand proposes future tourist tax rise before implementation

THE NEWS: Thailand is considering raising its foreign visitor tax to around THB450, up from the previously set THB300 for air arrivals, even though the fee has not yet been introduced.

DETAILS:

• Thailand’s delayed foreign visitor fee was originally set at THB300—about US$9—for air arrivals, while travelers entering by land or sea were expected to pay half that amount, THB150. These rates were part of the government’s long‑delayed plan to levy a tourist tax.
• The government is now weighing a charge of roughly THB450 for foreign visitors, a significant jump from the previously planned THB300 for air arrivals, and officials say the higher amount could also be applied to land and sea entries in the same fee structure.
• Tourism and Sports Minister Surasak Phancharoenworakul said in May that THB300 may no longer be sufficient because the government wants to provide more comprehensive insurance protection for foreign visitors.
• Officials cite rising insurance costs as the reason for the increase, indicating the higher tax is intended to fund more extensive visitor insurance.

FAQ
How much was the original foreign visitor tax for air arrivals in Thailand?
Thailand’s delayed foreign visitor fee was originally set at THB300—about US$9—for air arrivals, while travelers entering by land or sea were expected to pay half that amount, THB150. These rates were part of the government’s long‑delayed plan to levy a tourist tax.

What is the newly considered tax amount for foreign visitors?
The government is now weighing a charge of roughly THB450 for foreign visitors, a significant jump from the previously planned THB300 for air arrivals, and officials say the higher amount could also be applied to land and sea entries in the same fee structure.

Why is Thailand proposing a higher tax despite it not being introduced yet?
Officials cite rising insurance costs as the reason for the increase, saying the government wants to provide more comprehensive insurance protection for foreign visitors; Tourism and Sports Minister Surasak Phancharoenworakul told reporters in May that the existing THB300 may no longer be sufficient.

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