BANGKOK, Thailand, Sept 19: Starting December 1, 2024, Thailand will implement a new requirement for travelers from 93 countries that previously enjoyed visa-free entry. These travelers will now need to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before their trip as part of Thailand’s initiative to enhance immigration processes and strengthen border security.

The ETA will be mandatory for all travelers entering Thailand via air, sea, or land, with the exception of citizens from Laos, Cambodia, and Malaysia. This change aims to streamline entry procedures and bolster safety for both visitors and residents.

The ETA system will begin as a pilot program on December 1, 2024, and is expected to be fully operational by June 2025. Travelers will be able to apply for the ETA through Thailand’s official e-Visa website, and the process will be entirely digital. Importantly, the ETA will be issued free of charge, maintaining Thailand’s visa-free travel policy while adding an extra layer of security.

Once approved, the ETA permits a single entry into Thailand and is valid for 60 days from the date of issuance, allowing visitors to stay in the country for up to two months. Travelers who wish to extend their stay can apply for a one-time extension of 30 additional days, providing more flexibility for those planning longer visits.

The introduction of the ETA is designed to streamline the immigration process and enhance convenience for international visitors. Automated immigration clearance gates equipped with QR codes will further facilitate smooth and quick entry, minimizing wait times. However, travelers who do not comply with the ETA requirements or overstay their allotted time may face penalties, underscoring the importance of adhering to the new regulations.

The new ETA system will apply to citizens and residents of 93 countries, including major nations such as India, Hong Kong, Singapore, China, the United States, and the United Arab Emirates. European countries such as the United Kingdom, Spain, France, the Netherlands, and Italy, as well as Asian and Middle Eastern nations including South Korea, Japan, Bahrain, and Kuwait, will also be affected. Additionally, travelers from Australia, Canada, Brazil, South Africa, New Zealand, and smaller nations like Andorra, Liechtenstein, and Monaco will be included under the new rules.

This move follows Thailand’s earlier decision to grant visa-free entry to travelers from these countries starting July 15, 2024. The addition of the ETA requirement aims to balance ease of access with enhanced security, modernizing Thailand’s immigration system while continuing to welcome visitors from around the globe.