Thailand's cabinet approved visa fee exemptions for nationals of Poland Hungary Chile Colombia Peru and seven other nations starting August 1 2026. The measure covers 60-day tourist visas and runs until December 31 2027. Tourism Authority of Thailand projects an extra 850000 arrivals from these markets.
Existing fee waivers for 57 countries remain in place while the new additions target emerging source markets. Applications still require online registration via the e-Visa portal but no payment is collected. The policy replaces a temporary waiver that expired in March 2026.
Background reveals Thailand welcomed 28 million visitors in 2025 still 12 percent below 2019 figures. Fee waivers previously boosted arrivals from India and China by 25 percent. The Tourism Ministry aims for 35 million visitors in 2026 with this expansion.
What this means for you
Apply for the e-Visa at least two weeks before travel to avoid processing delays. Print the approval letter and carry it with your passport at immigration. Combine the waiver with current hotel promotions offering 30 percent discounts in Bangkok and Phuket.
Book domestic flights early as low-cost carriers add capacity for the expected surge. Check your passport has six months validity beyond your planned departure. Register with your embassy upon arrival for emergency alerts.
The extended waiver lowers costs and encourages longer stays across Southeast Asia's busiest destination.