BANGKOK, THAILAND – Thailand is gearing up to implement a new entry fee for foreign tourists, slated for summer 2026 after years of planning and delays.
The proposed fee, locally known as “Kha Yeap Pan Din” or “fee for stepping on Thai soil,” has been in the works for six years and has seen three postponements. Tourism Minister Surasak Phancharoenworakul recently indicated a launch between July and September 2026, though a specific date is yet to be confirmed.
This new levy will affect all foreign tourists entering Thailand by air. Details regarding the exact cost, who will be exempted, and how the collected funds will be utilized are still being finalized by the Ministry of Tourism and Sports. The government under Prime Minister Anutin has prioritized the introduction of this fee.
Six Years of Planning, Three Postponements
The concept of a tourist entry fee was first proposed in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic. While the cabinet formally approved the concept in 2023, its implementation was stalled due to fragile tourism numbers, industry resistance, and logistical challenges in collection. A planned launch in winter 2025 was also postponed.
This time, the new government has made the fee a priority. The Tourism and Sports Ministry is actively developing the collection structure, and a concrete timeframe is now on the table. The precise month of launch will depend on the technical readiness of the system.
What the Fee Will Cost and How It Will Be Collected
Initially, the planned fee was 300 Baht (approximately 8 Euros) for air travelers. However, Tourism Minister Surasak suggested that the amount might be slightly increased due to inflation and expanded insurance coverage. A new confirmed amount has not yet been announced.
For arrivals via land and sea borders, no definitive regulations are currently in place. Previous plans for a 150 Baht fee at land checkpoints have been deferred. The fee is expected to be collected alongside air ticket purchases, integrated into the ticket price, similar to Japan’s departure tax. Separate payments at counters or immigration areas will not be required, with airlines handling the collection.
Who Pays and Who Is Exempt
The fee is intended for foreign tourists arriving by air. Current plans indicate exemptions for diplomats and their families, transit passengers, and children under two years old. The status of long-term residents with valid visas, such as Non-OA, Non-O, or DTV holders, is still under review.
The ministry is currently assessing how to handle re-entries for expatriates. This could impact DACH-region expats with active visas who frequently travel in and out of Thailand for visa runs or family visits in Europe, as they may have to pay the fee upon each return unless a specific exemption is granted.
Where the Money Will Go
A portion of the revenue, approximately 70 Baht per person, is earmarked for an automatic travel insurance policy. This insurance is intended to cover emergency medical costs up to a state-defined amount from the moment of entry.
The remaining amount is to be invested in tourism infrastructure, including the maintenance of attractions, security systems, and public facilities in tourist areas. The exact distribution of funds and oversight mechanisms have not yet been transparently communicated.
What Other Countries Charge Tourists
At 300 Baht, Thailand’s proposed fee is at the lower end of global tourist taxes. Bali introduced a fee of around 9 Euros per entry in 2024, and Japan has a departure tax of approximately 6 Euros per person. New Zealand charges around 18 Euros for its International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy.
Bhutan stands out with a daily fee of 200 US dollars, aiming to limit visitor numbers. The 300 Baht fee is considered relatively modest, comparable to the cost of two beers on the beach. For frequent travelers, however, it could amount to a triple-digit Euro sum annually.
What This Means for Travelers and Expats Now
For those traveling to Thailand before September, the fee is not yet in effect. No official start date has been confirmed, and the collection system is not active. Already booked flights will not be affected, as the fee will only be integrated into new ticket prices once the system is operational.
Individuals planning autumn or winter trips should monitor developments. While a July launch is realistic, it is not guaranteed. The fee itself is unlikely to be a significant travel deterrent, but frequent-flying expats should check for potential visa status exemptions once the final regulations are released.