The cabinet on Tuesday approved in principle a one-year Medical Treatment Visa to attract foreigners with purchasing power.
Deputy government spokeswoman Rachada Dhnadirek said the Medical Treatment Visa, or Non-MT visa, would be available for patients who needed medical services in Thailand and include up to three supporters per patient.
The one-year and multiple-entry Medical Treatment Visa will not be renewable. Visa holders will be able to stay in Thailand for up to 90 days per arrival, but could seek permission for continuous stays if their medical treatment requires that. For this, they must present medical certificates issued by public or private hospitals or medical institutes in the government sector.
The Medical Treatment Visa targets visitors who need continuous medical treatment and their supporters, Ms Rachada said. It will enhance the country's competitive edge in line with government policy to promote Thailand as an international medical hub.
Foreigners eligible for the new visa are patients who need medical services in areas that Thailand has mastered. These include anti-aging medicine, health rehabilitation, plastic surgery, dentistry and treatment for cancer and cardiovascular disease, she said.
Patients and followers must each show bank statements with deposits of at least 800,000 baht and have accident and Covid-19 insurance cover in Thailand for at least US$100,000, or about 3 million baht.
Patients must make appointments with their hospitals or clinics 30 days in advance, Ms Rachada said.
