Beginning December 1, 2024, Thailand will modify the visa-free travel agreement for many countries in the APAC region, requiring travelers to secure an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before traveling. Thailand modifies visa-free travel for Asia to strengthen border security and improve immigration controls.
What to Expect
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- Thailand will now require travelers from the following Asian nations to secure an ETA: Bhutan, Brunei, China, Georgia, India, Indonesia, Japan, Laos, Malaysia, Maldives, Mongolia, Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Australia, Uzbekistan, and Vietnam.
- Citizens from these countries, who previously entered without any pre-travel documentation, must now comply with the new regulations.
- The ETA system will begin as a pilot program and is expected to be fully operational by June 2025.
- Travelers can apply for the ETA online via Thailand’s official e-Visa portal.
- The ETA allows a single entry and is valid for 60 days. A one-time extension of 30 days is also available.
Erickson Insights & Analsyis
Erickson Immigration Group will continue to monitor developments and share updates as more news is available. Please contact your employer or EIG attorney if you have questions about anything we’re reporting above or case-specific questions.