Thailand Visa-Free Boost: Thailand’s tourism industry thrives due to its stunning beaches, bustling shopping areas, and intricate temples. This return is aided by a unique plan allowing visa-free visits for Chinese and Kazakh tourists. The new Thai prime minister, Srettha Thavisin, started the scheme. It begins on September 25 and ends on February 24 of the following year. This move shows the country’s determination to fix its struggling economy. One key goal is to improve the tourism industry.
The visa-free policy was implemented for China’s “Golden Week” holidays, coinciding with National Day on October 1. In 2023, the Mid-Autumn Festival will coincide with the vacation season. From September 29 to October 8, many will travel. This year is significant as it marks one of the first instances since the COVID-19 outbreak that Chinese people can travel freely without strict rules.
After the visa-free policy started, Chinese travellers from Shanghai to Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport were warmly welcomed. The PM and tourism minister gave them gifts to say hello. Srettha said the goal was to attract Chinese tourists to big cities and smaller towns. He hoped this plan would help the Thai economy. This plan aims to increase tourists’ length of stay and spending in the country.
Before 2019, around 11 million Chinese tourists visited Thailand. This was over a quarter of all foreign visitors. In the past, most Thai visitors were from China. Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, tourist numbers significantly declined in 2020 and 2021. The Tourism Authority of Thailand reports 2.2 million Chinese visitors to Thailand from January to September 10, 2023. This drop reflects the tourism industry’s difficult period.
Southeast Asian countries hoped for a quick rise in foreign travel to revive their tourism industries. When China began easing travel rules in early 2023, hopes rose. However, a slowing Chinese economy, falling yuan, and high unemployment rates forced the region to lower goals and prepare for a longer recovery process.
Gary Bowerman, from Check-in Asia, believes the new visa-exemption policy will impact upcoming holidays like Christmas, Lunar New Year, and Golden Week. He discusses the need to expedite travel and the growing competition among neighbouring countries to attract Chinese tourists.
Due to Covid rules, Chinese tourists couldn’t travel abroad in 2020. This led to increased travel in China. Despite the poor economy, some seize the opportunity to travel overseas for short trips. This is evident in tech worker tourists like Huang, who seek new experiences while budget-conscious.
Compared to last year, outbound bookings for foreign travel have increased, indicating a growing interest in travelling abroad. Trip.com, China’s largest online travel agency, reported bookings were 20 times higher during Christmas. The September 2022 coronavirus lockdowns in over 70 Chinese cities impacted around 300 million individuals.
After the visa-free policy in September 2023, hotel bookings for Thailand increased. This shows passengers’ changing ideas about the country. Bookings increased by an impressive 6,220% YoY. Thailand may surpass South Korea, Malaysia, Singapore, Australia, and the UK as the top choice for overseas Chinese tourists.
China’s plane travel is booming during the Golden Week, with over 21 million people expected to fly. During this time, 17,000 international planes and 14,000 domestic flights are typically departing daily. The same applies to trains, facilitating access to rural areas in China. During the 12-day travel rush, around 190 million train rides are expected. China Railway’s statement. This exceeds the 138 million trips in 2019 pre-flu outbreak and the 72 million last year.
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Despite increased travel, China’s capacity for international flights remains nearly 50% smaller than before. According to Joanna Lu from Ascend by Cirium, foreign airline fares remain high due to limited seat availability.
Due to the pandemic, people have altered their movement patterns. Chinese tourists seek affordable and novel activities. Dr. Wolfgang Georg Arlt of COTRI says it’s a significant change. Wealthy travellers seek to maximize their trips by integrating business, health, education, and family events with leisure travel.
Thailand’s tourism industry faces challenges like rumours and movies impacting visitor decisions on recovery. Before the visa-free program, Chinese people who had visited Thailand hesitated to return. In the first seven months of 2023, China wasn’t among Thailand’s top tourist sources. This was different from the past ten years. Chinese social media users were concerned about visiting Thailand due to nearby kidnappings and forced labour. People believed that obtaining a visa was difficult.
The Thai government debunked lies and clarified misunderstandings to regain Chinese customers’ trust. Sisdivachr Cheewarattanaporn, head of the Thai Travel Agents Association, explained that the criminal activities occurred in Myanmar and Cambodia, not Thailand.
Thailand’s tourism industry prepares for Chinese tourists’ return, anticipating a recovery. Tour companies and businesses prepare for tourists’ return despite the economy not fully recovering.
Our Reader’s Queries
Can I get Thailand visa for free?
Great news for Indian tourists! Thailand has waived visa requirements for Indian nationals, effective November 10. This means that Indian tourists can now enter Thailand without a visa and stay for up to 30 days for tourism purposes only. The new visa exemption rules will be valid from November 10, 2023, to May 10, 2024, giving Indian travelers ample time to plan their trips. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore the beautiful beaches, temples, and culture of Thailand hassle-free!
Is Thailand extending visa exemption?
If you’re planning to stay in Thailand for more than 30 days, you can request an extension from the immigration officer. Keep in mind that the officer has the final say on whether to grant or deny the extension. The only extension available for the initial 30-day exemption period is an extra 7 to 30 days.
How to get 60 day visa for Thailand?
To obtain a tourist visa for up to 60 days, you’ll need a valid passport that’s good for at least 6 months beyond the date of your application. You’ll also need to fill out the visa application form and provide two recent photos of yourself. Keep in mind that consular officers may ask for additional documents if needed.
How many times can I go to Thailand in one year?
Travelers who arrive at the airport without a pre-arranged visa can still obtain a 30-day stamp up to six times per year. If you need to extend your stay, you can do so at Thai Immigration for a fee of 1,900 baht. The visa exemption stamp extension will also be valid for 30 days.