Thailand proposes visa-free entry for four more countries
The proposal has not been approved and forms part of a tourism strategy targeting revenue of at least ฿4 trillion.
Thailand plans to extend visa-free access to visitors from Mexico, Colombia, Uzbekistan and Belarus as part of efforts to generate at least ฿4 trillion in tourism revenue. The proposed expansion is not yet approved or in force.
Government spokesperson Lalida Persvivatana announced the plan on 31 October after a National Tourism Policy Committee meeting chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Suphajee Suthumpun, according to Thaiger. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is due to submit the proposal to the relevant committee on 9 November. Belarus was added to an earlier proposal covering the other three countries.
The government is also seeking to speed up e-Visa applications and has discussed shortening immigration queues at Suvarnabhumi Airport. These measures form part of the draft Fourth National Tourism Development Plan for 2028–2032, which seeks better service standards and a place among the top 30 countries in the Travel & Tourism Development Index.
The strategy aims to attract more high-spending visitors while spreading tourism income to small businesses and local communities, rather than only large companies. Cruise and yacht tourism are priorities, with TAT asked to prepare plans for cruise terminals and yacht marinas.
Short-haul marketing will target Taiwan, Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia and Singapore. For more distant markets, Thailand plans to use international events and partnerships with travel agents and airlines.
Other proposals include multilingual provincial tourism calendars listing festivals, attractions and community activities. Seasonal fruit-orchard tours in eastern Thailand will also be promoted to help farmers and local businesses earn more.
