FILE PHOTO: Passengers are pictured at the departures terminal at Suvarnabhumi International Airport on October 27, 2021. The rourist entry fee, which was approved in principle by the Cabinet in February 2023, is set at 300 baht (US$9.25) for air arrivals and 150 baht for land or sea entries. - AFP
BANGKOK: Thailand’s Ministry of Tourism and Sports has announced a delay in the implementation of the long-planned travel fee for foreign tourists, locally referred to as the Kha Yeap Pan Din (literally, “stepping onto Thai soil” fee).
Officials have confirmed that the measure will not be enforced in 2025 as initially planned.
Chakrapol Tangsutthitham, Assistant Minister of Tourism and Sports, stated that the decision was made following a review by Minister Sorawong Thienthong, who deemed the current timing inappropriate due to ongoing external uncertainties.
“We must wait to assess international tourist demand during the upcoming high season in Q4 this year,” Chakrapol explained, adding that the ministry needs more time to study the details and determine an appropriate fee structure based on the mode of travel—land, sea, rail, or air.
As it stands, the tourist entry fee is expected to be introduced in Q2 or Q3 of 2026.
The fee, which was approved in principle by the Cabinet in February 2023, is set at 300 baht (US$9.25) for air arrivals and 150 baht for land or sea entries.
The revenue generated will be used to enhance tourist sites and fund insurance coverage for foreign visitors. - The Nation/ANN
