Thailand Set to Introduce 300 Baht Tourist Tax: What Indian Travellers Should Know
Thailand is preparing to implement its long-awaited tourism tax of 300 baht (approximately ₹820), a plan that has been under discussion for several years. The country’s Tourism and Sports Minister, Atthakorn Sirilatthayakorn, has announced that the fee will be introduced during his tenure.
According to reports, the ministry has instructed relevant agencies to start public awareness campaigns explaining how the collected funds will be used, including improvements to tourism infrastructure and visitor insurance coverage.
The idea of a tourism tax was first proposed in 2020 and later approved by the Cabinet in February 2023. While early drafts suggested different rates for air and land arrivals, the finalized plan sets a flat fee of 300 baht for all tourists entering Thailand.
The tax is expected to be implemented within four months of completing the final framework, though an official start date will be confirmed only after all legal and procedural requirements are met. Reports indicate that the fee may come into effect toward the end of 2026.
Minister Atthakorn explained that the revenue generated from this fee will support tourism development projects and provide insurance coverage for visitors, ensuring that both infrastructure and traveller safety benefit from the initiative.