Tourist Entry Fee Postponed: What This Means for Travelers to Thailand in 2025
Thailand had originally planned to introduce a 300 baht (approx. €7.50) entry fee for all foreign tourists in 2025.
The goal was to support tourism infrastructure, fund public healthcare for visitors, and enhance destination management. However, this plan has now officially been pushed back to mid-2026 — a move that many see as a response to the slowing recovery in international arrivals.
Recent figures from the Bank of Thailand show a 6.18% drop in foreign tourist arrivals during the first seven months of 2025 compared to the same period last year. Visitor numbers reached around 19 million so far this year, prompting tourism officials to revise the year-end forecast from 36 million down to 35 million.
According to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), the country welcomed 16.6 million tourists by the end of June, generating approximately 768 billion baht (USD 21–22 billion) in tourism revenue. While these numbers are still impressive, the decline in Chinese tourists — traditionally Thailand’s largest market — is particularly notable. Reports indicate that China’s travel safety confidence index toward Thailand has dropped to just 19% since late 2024, reflecting lingering concerns over personal safety and regional stability.
The postponement of the entry fee is viewed as a tactical decision to avoid discouraging travelers in an already fragile tourism rebound. By maintaining lower travel costs, Thailand hopes to stay competitive among Southeast Asian destinations, especially as travelers become more selective and budget-conscious.
For now, tourists can continue entering Thailand without paying the extra fee, but it’s a good idea to keep an eye on upcoming policy changes — especially for those planning long-term or repeat visits.
Planning a trip to Thailand? This year might still be the right time — fewer crowds, no entry tax, and growing interest in lesser-known destinations like Ko Tao, Hat Yai, and Chiang Rai.
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