The cabinet on Tuesday endorsed a comprehensive visa package proposed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) to boost tourism, attract long-stay visitors and stimulate the economy.
A government spokeswoman said the measures, implemented in phases, aim to enhance Thailand's appeal to tourists, remote workers and long-term residents.
With visa-free entry for nationals of 93 countries for up to 60 days, and an expanded Visa on Arrival (VoA) scheme for 31 territories in effect, the new Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) caters to remote workers, while the Non-Immigrant ED Plus visa allows foreign students to work while they study.
In the medium term, the MFA will streamline non-immigrant visas, with the target of reducing the categories from 17 to seven by Aug 31 this year. E-visa services have also been expanded to all 94 Thai embassies and consulates since Jan 1 last year.
The Immigration Bureau has also implemented the new Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC). while future plans include adding eight more countries to the VoA scheme and revising the criteria for long-stay retirement visas.
