Thailand Rolls Out Red Carpet for Indian, Taiwanese Visitors With New Visa Waivers
Thailand is gearing up for the return of more global travelers by approving visa exemptions for visitors from India and Taiwan effective November 2022 through May 2024. The move aims to boost tourism numbers from these key markets as high season approaches.
According to government spokesperson Anucha Burapachaisri, the visa waivers reflect Thailand’s readiness to fully welcome back travelers who fuel the economy. “As our tourism industry gains momentum post-pandemic, we are pleased to offer this measure to make visits easier for our friends from India and Taiwan,” he stated.
The announcement comes on the heels of a similar policy launched in September eliminating visas for Chinese tourists to accelerate recovery. Thailand attracted over 11 million visitors from greater China previously, making this demographic pivotal for revitalization.
Meanwhile, India and Taiwan represent growing opportunities, especially among younger independent travelers seeking unique experiences. Thailand attracted over 2 million annual visitors from India pre-pandemic. Officials are optimistic this move will boost numbers by at least 30 percent, aligning with the national goal of attracting 25-30 million foreign arrivals next year.
For Indian visitors like Priya Sharma, the news is being enthusiastically received. “The visa waiver makes me more likely to choose Thailand for my next vacation,” she said. “It removes extra steps so I can focus on planning activities with friends.”
Taiwan is similarly a priority market with high potential Thailand aims to capture. Diversifying strategies to increase visitor diversity and spending is paying dividends, with 22 million arrivals and over $25 billion in tourism revenue recorded so far this year.
As Anucha summarized, “Thailand cannot wait for our Indian and Taiwanese friends to discover legendary Thai hospitality again.”
With these latest visa exemptions, the Land of Smiles is smiling brightly knowing doors are now wide open to reignite tourism from India, Taiwan and beyond.
