Thailand proposes 450-baht tourism fee for foreign visitors

Abi Sarabia M., Philippine Canadian Inquirer
September 04, 2026

Photo courtesy: Klook

Thailand is considering a 450-baht tourism fee for foreign visitors, with collection for air travelers expected to begin in 2027 if the proposal receives final government approval.

The proposed fee, equivalent to roughly P840 to P850, would apply to foreign tourists entering Thailand by air, land or sea. A single payment would remain valid for 30 days, allowing travelers to leave and re-enter the country within that period without paying the fee again.

The measure is not yet in effect. 

Thailand’s Ministry of Tourism and Sports opened a public consultation on the proposal from August 24 to September 28, 2026. After the consultation, the proposal will go back to the National Tourism Policy Committee before it can be submitted to the Cabinet for approval.

Under the government’s proposed rollout, collection would begin with travelers arriving by air. Officials expect the first phase to start in 2027, with the measure taking effect 180 days after its publication in the Royal Gazette. Land and sea arrivals would follow later because of additional preparations needed at border checkpoints.

Payment methods under consideration include incorporating the fee into airline tickets, paying through an official website or mobile application, or using payment kiosks at entry points.

Several groups would be exempt, including children under two years old, transit passengers, airline and transport crew members, holders of diplomatic or official passports, foreign workers with valid work permits, and travelers using border passes.

Revenue from the proposed levy would be directed to Thailand’s Tourism Promotion Fund to support tourism infrastructure, attractions, environmental restoration, research, workforce development and local communities. Part of the fund would also finance insurance and health protection for foreign tourists.

The Association of Thai Travel Agents estimates the levy could generate around 10 billion baht in revenue for the tourism industry. Thai officials said the insurance component could also help reduce unpaid medical expenses involving foreign visitors, which currently cost the state an estimated 300 million to 400 million baht annually.

Tourism and Sports Minister Surasak Phancharoenworakul said the government is seeking a more stable source of funding to improve the country’s tourism sector as it shifts toward higher-value and more sustainable tourism.

Thailand had previously considered introducing a tourism fee, but earlier plans were put on hold amid the collapse in international travel during the COVID-19 pandemic.