Thailand’s contentious “landing fee” has officially been rebranded as a “travelling tax,” with plans for implementation around mid-2025, the Tourism and Sports Ministry announced. Minister Sorawong Thienthong shared details of the tax during a press conference on Wednesday, revealing that it will initially apply to air arrivals.
The new travelling tax, which will be submitted to the Cabinet for approval in the first quarter of 2025, is expected to take effect six months post-approval. In its first phase, the tax will charge 300 baht (approximately $8.88) for foreign air arrivals and 150 baht (around $4.44) for those entering by land or sea.
Funding for Tourism Development
Originally dubbed “Kha Yeap Pan Din,” or the “fee for stepping on Thai soil,” this tax aims to enhance the tourism sector. Minister Sorawong indicated that the funds collected will contribute to insurance for foreign visitors, with the remainder directed to a tourism development fund. This fund is intended to improve tourist facilities, including enhanced accessibility for disabled visitors and upgraded restroom facilities.
Insurance Provisions Under the Tax
The minister clarified that the existing insurance coverage will remain unchanged, with a maximum of 60 baht allocated from the 300 baht travelling tax. The insurance will provide a death benefit of 1 million baht and cover injuries up to 500,000 baht, in addition to any personal insurance purchased by tourists. The coverage will be valid for stays of up to 30 days, applicable to about 87% of foreign arrivals.
Future Adjustments to the Tax Structure
Sorawong also noted that after the initial implementation phase, the Cabinet may consider adjusting the tax rates for land and sea arrivals to match those for air travelers, addressing concerns of unequal treatment among different arrival methods.
Importantly, the travelling tax will not apply to cross-border merchants, who will need to present a border pass when entering and exiting Thailand from neighboring countries.
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