Thailand To Introduce 300 Baht Tourism Tax Soon? How It May Impact Indian Travellers

About 2.1 million Indians travelled to Thailand in 2024, up nearly 30% from 2023. (Image: Reuters)

Thailand could soon begin enforcing its long-proposed 300 baht (around Rs 820) tourism levy for foreign visitors, with the country’s new Tourism and Sports Minister, Atthakorn Sirilatthayakorn, pledging to launch collections during his brief term.

He has instructed officials to roll out a communication plan explaining how the funds will be used, primarily to cover visitor insurance and upgrade tourism infrastructure, according to the Bangkok Post.

Calling the tax “critical,” the minister said that the money will help fund insurance for foreign tourists and strengthen tourism facilities. However, he acknowledged that the added cost could discourage some visitors, noting that many travellers have previously voiced frustration over new fees online.

Tax First Proposed In 2020

The tourism tax was first proposed in 2020 and later approved by Thailand’s cabinet in February 2023, but it was never implemented. The original framework set a charge of 300 baht for air arrivals and 150 baht for those entering by land or sea. Former Tourism Minister Sorawong Thienthong had promised to roll it out by late 2025 before the plan was delayed.

Atthakorn, meanwhile, has stressed that transparency will be crucial. “We must clearly communicate how tourists will actually benefit,” he said

While there’s still no confirmed date, the levy could now be introduced by mid-to-late 2026.

How Does It Impact Indian Tourists?

With India ranking as Thailand’s third-largest source of visitors, the new tax could have a noticeable impact. As per media reports, about 2.1 million Indians travelled to the Asian country in 2024, up nearly 30% from 2023.

For Indian travellers, the charge would mean an added expense of roughly Rs 800–Rs 900 per person. Though minor in the context of a full trip, it might affect perceptions of affordability, particularly among budget travellers.

The government is still deciding how the fee will be collected — whether integrated into airfare or charged at entry points. Earlier versions suggested 300 baht for air passengers and 150 baht for land or sea travellers.

If the proceeds genuinely go toward tourist insurance and better infrastructure, the move could face less resistance, especially if the benefits are clearly visible through improved safety and facilities.