Thailand Plans 1,000 Baht Exit Fee for Citizens Travelling Abroad

Thailand Plans 1,000 Baht Exit Fee for Citizens Travelling Abroad

BANGKOK, April 28, 2026 — Thailand’s government is considering a 1,000 baht ($27) exit fee for Thai citizens travelling abroad as part of plans to raise funds for domestic tourism programmes, officials said.

Tourism and Sports Minister Surasak Phancharoenworrakun said the ministry would consult the Finance Ministry on reviving the country’s Departure Tax Act, which previously imposed a 500 baht charge on outbound Thai travellers.

Under the proposed revision, Thai nationals would pay 1,000 baht for each overseas trip, a measure the minister said could generate more than 10 billion baht ($270 million) annually.

The revenue would be used to support the government’s domestic travel co-payment scheme, which has an annual budget of around 10 billion baht and is aimed at boosting local tourism and the wider economy.

Surasak said the fee would apply only to Thai citizens leaving the country, while foreign visitors would not be charged when departing Thailand.

He added that the levy was unlikely to significantly affect travel decisions, saying airfare prices remained the main factor influencing outbound tourism.

The proposal drew mixed reactions online, with some Thais saying the new charge would add pressure amid rising living costs, while others questioned whether the funds would be used transparently.

Industry groups also voiced concern. The Association of Thai Travel Agents urged authorities to delay the plan, warning it could weaken demand for international flights.

No timeline has been announced for implementation.