Thailand Delays 450-Baht Tourist Entry Fee Amid Declining Foreign Arrivals

Thailand Delays 450-Baht Tourist Entry Fee Amid Declining Foreign Arrivals

BANGKOK, November 12, 2026 – Thailand has postponed the introduction of its proposed 450-baht entry fee for foreign tourists arriving by air, with collection now unlikely to begin before June or July 2027, according to the Ministry of Tourism and Sports.

The measure, which still requires Cabinet approval, had previously been targeted for implementation in the first quarter of 2027. However, officials say additional regulatory procedures will prevent immediate collection following approval.

The National Tourism Policy Committee is scheduled to consider the proposal on November 12. Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthumpun, who chairs the committee, is expected to sign the proposal before it is submitted to the Cabinet, potentially as early as next week.

Natthriya Thaweevong, permanent secretary for tourism and sports, said that even after approval, the regulation must be published in the Royal Gazette and undergo a 180-day transition period before collection can begin.

She said the earliest possible implementation date would therefore be around June or July 2027.

Tourism and Sports Minister Surasak Phancharoenworakul said tourism remained a major contributor to Thailand’s economy but that the industry could not rely entirely on government budget allocations. He noted that more than 80 countries already impose some form of tourism tax or visitor fee.

Fee may be included in airline tickets

The ministry is considering collecting the 450-baht fee through airline ticket prices rather than requiring foreign passengers to make separate payments upon arrival.

Natthriya said discussions with aviation authorities and organisations, including Airports of Thailand, had progressed positively, with the necessary collection systems considered technically ready.

She added that the government had spent approximately seven to eight years studying the proposal and developing the collection system.

An online public consultation found that 80.50% of respondents supported the draft regulation, while 78.30% backed the proposed 450-baht charge. Meanwhile, 62% said tourists arriving by air, land and sea did not necessarily need to pay the same amount.

Revenue to support tourism development and insurance

The ministry plans to use revenue from the fee to improve tourism infrastructure, develop destinations and restore attractions affected by years of heavy visitor traffic.

Part of the proceeds would also fund insurance coverage for foreign tourists who become ill or suffer accidents during their stay in Thailand.

Other planned uses include community-based tourism development, workforce training and the creation of new tourist attractions.

According to the ministry, tourism operators generally support the principle of the proposed fee, although some have raised questions about revenue management and whether the funds would directly benefit the tourism industry.

The final implementation date, exemptions and collection arrangements remain subject to the regulatory approval process.