Bangkok: The Cabinet acknowledged measures and guidelines for visa issuance to 93 countries to support Thai tourism. Ms. Airin Phanrit, Deputy Spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, revealed that the Cabinet has acknowledged the measures and guidelines for visa issuance to promote tourism and stimulate the economy of Thailand, as proposed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

According to Thai News Agency, the new visa guidelines include both short-term and medium-term measures. Among the short-term measures, the Cabinet has specified a list of 93 countries and territories whose citizens are exempted from visa requirements, allowing them to stay in Thailand for up to 60 days for tourism, work, or short-term business. Additionally, 31 countries have been listed for Visa on Arrival (VoA) in the first phase, while a new Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) type will cater to tourists and remote workers. For educational purposes, a temporary residence visa (Non-Immigrant) code ED Plus is being introduced.

In terms of medium-term measures, the number of visa codes for temporary residents has been reduced from 17 to 7, effective August 31, 2025. This change aims to streamline the process and has already been implemented in the electronic visa system (e-Visa). Furthermore, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has expanded electronic visa services to include all 94 embassies and consulates worldwide from January 1, 2025.

Long-term measures involve the development of an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system, with the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) online system now operational since May 1, 2025, replacing the ETA.

Currently, additional measures are underway, including expanding the list for Visa on Arrival (VoA) to eight more countries in its second phase. Adjustments are also being made to the criteria and conditions for issuing long-stay visas for senior citizens wishing to retire in Thailand.