Starting December 1, 2024, Thailand will launch its new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system, targeting visa-exempt travellers, including those from India. According to Thailand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, this system aims to simplify immigration procedures and improve the tracking of foreign nationals.
This initiative is part of Thailand’s broader strategy to enhance national security and manage tourist flow more efficiently, ensuring the country remains a top global travel destination.
Who Needs the ETA?
The Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) will apply to nationals from 93 visa-exempt countries. However, travellers from Laos, Cambodia, and Malaysia are excluded from this requirement.
With each approved ETA, visitors will be allowed a single entry into Thailand, valid for up to 60 days per visit. Additionally, travellers will have the option to extend their stay by 30 days.
Countries That Require ETA
Here is the full list of the 93 visa-exempt countries that will require an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) to enter Thailand:
Albania
Argentina
Armenia
Australia
Austria
Bahrain
Belarus
Belgium
Bosnia and Herzegovina
Brazil
Brunei Darussalam
Bulgaria
Canada
Chile
China
Colombia
Costa Rica
Croatia
Cyprus
Czech Republic
Denmark
Dominican Republic
Ecuador
El Salvador
Estonia
Finland
France
Georgia
Germany
Greece
Guatemala
Honduras
Hong Kong
Hungary
Iceland
India
Indonesia
Ireland
Israel
Italy
Japan
Kazakhstan
Kuwait
Laos
Latvia
Lithuania
Luxembourg
Macau
Malaysia
Maldives
Malta
Mauritius
Mexico
Monaco
Mongolia
Montenegro
Morocco
Myanmar
Nepal
Netherlands
New Zealand
Norway
Oman
Panama
Paraguay
Peru
Philippines
Poland
Portugal
Qatar
Romania
Russia
San Marino
Saudi Arabia
Serbia
Singapore
Slovakia
Slovenia
South Africa
South Korea
Spain
Sri Lanka
Sweden
Switzerland
Taiwan
Tajikistan
Tunisia
Turkey
Turkmenistan
United Arab Emirates
United Kingdom
United States
Uzbekistan
Applying for Thailand’s ETA: A Simple Online Process
Travellers to Thailand can apply for the ETA entirely online. The process will be quick and convenient, with no application fees involved. This new system aims to offer a hassle-free experience for tourists.
By June 2025, the Thai government plans to integrate the ETA with its e-Visa system, allowing travellers to submit a unified online application for their trip to Thailand.
Travellers will need to apply through the e-portal at www.thaievisa.go.th, which is becoming the standard entry point for visitors to Thailand.
Benefits of the New ETA System
One of the key advantages for ETA holders is access to automated immigration clearance gates at various checkpoints. Visitors can simply scan the QR code from their ETA for faster entry into the country, significantly reducing wait times.
However, travellers should adhere to their approved stay limits. The system will closely track visa-free travellers, and overstaying could result in penalties, including daily fines.
Does the ETA Guarantee Entry?
While the ETA facilitates a smoother immigration process, it does not guarantee entry into Thailand. Immigration officers retain the right to refuse entry if deemed necessary.
Further details on the ETA process are expected to be released soon, and travellers are encouraged to stay updated to ensure a seamless experience when visiting Thailand.
As Thailand rolls out this new system, travellers need to keep an eye on the latest updates. This streamlined process is set to make visiting Thailand even more accessible and convenient, ensuring a positive experience for all.
Source:https://travelobiz.com/thailand-introduces-new-eta-system-for-visa-exempt-travellers-from-december-01/
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