TBM Staff - Mumbai Thailand will implement a new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system for visa-exempt travellers beginning December 1, 2024.
This initiative, announced by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, aims to simplify immigration procedures and enhance the tracking of foreign nationals. The system will affect visitors from 93 countries, including India, who currently do not require a visa to enter Thailand.
The ETA will be mandatory for these travellers, while nationals from Laos, Cambodia, and Malaysia will be exempt. Each approved ETA will allow a single entry and be valid for up to 60 days per visit, with an option to extend by an additional 30 days.
The application process for the ETA will be conducted entirely online, and there will be no application fee, making it a straightforward procedure for travellers. Alongside the ETA, Thailand will continue to operate its e-Visa system, with plans to integrate both systems into a unified online application process by June 2025.
Travellers with an ETA will benefit from expedited immigration clearance using automated gates. By scanning the QR code provided on their ETA, they will enjoy faster entry processing. However, the new system will also allow Thailand to better monitor stays and enforce limits, with penalties for overstaying, including daily fines.
It’s important to note that while the ETA facilitates entry, it does not guarantee admission. Border officials retain the authority to deny entry if deemed necessary. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs will provide additional details on the ETA process in the coming weeks. Visitors planning to travel to Thailand should stay updated to ensure a smooth entry experience.
