If you’re planning a vacation to Thailand, get ready to shell out a little extra. The Thai government is preparing to introduce a tourism tax, aimed at boosting its infrastructure and increasing revenue from the booming tourism sector. This new tax will be applicable to international travelers visiting Thailand by air, sea, or land. While the exact start date is yet to be announced, tourists will soon have to account for this additional fee as part of their travel expenses.
Why is the Tourism Tax Being Introduced?
Thailand’s tourism sector has long been one of its biggest revenue generators, and the government is looking to increase this further by reintroducing the tourism tax. Thailand’s Tourism Minister, Sorawong Thienthong, confirmed that 300 baht (approximately ₹756) will be charged from international tourists arriving by air, while those entering by sea or road will pay 150 baht. The government’s target is to generate at least 3 trillion baht this year, and the tourism tax is one of the strategies to achieve that.
The funds collected from this tax will be invested in enhancing tourism infrastructure and improving safety measures for visitors. The tax, initially approved by the Cabinet in 2022, was postponed as it hadn’t been published in the Royal Gazette at the time. However, it is now expected to be implemented soon, after the government finalizes the logistics and system readiness.
Who Will Be Exempt from the Tax?
Not every traveler will be required to pay the tourism tax. According to the government’s current plan, the following groups are exempt:
- Children under the age of two years
- Transit passengers
- Diplomats holding diplomatic passports
- People with valid work permits
This exemption list provides some relief for specific groups, but the majority of tourists will have to pay the additional fee when entering the country.
When Will the Tourism Tax Come into Effect?
The exact date for the implementation of the tourism tax has not been confirmed yet. It will only begin once it is published in the Royal Gazette, as per Thailand’s legal requirements. Minister Thienthong mentioned that the system is being thoroughly reviewed to ensure it is ready for a smooth rollout. While there is no fixed timeline, the tax is expected to be introduced shortly, so travelers should stay updated.
Tourism Tax Is Common Globally
Thailand is not the only country to levy a tourism tax. Several countries across the globe, including Austria, Belgium, and Bhutan, impose such taxes on travelers. In many European cities like Edinburgh, Barcelona, and Paris, tourists are required to pay a daily tax, which can vary depending on the duration of the stay or the type of accommodation chosen. Luxurious hotels often have higher taxes, meaning that the more extravagant your stay, the more tax you’ll pay.
So, if you’re planning a trip to Thailand, factor in this additional cost. With tourism taxes becoming a global trend, it’s always a good idea to be aware of the extra expenses that might come with your travel plans.
