The Ministry of Tourism and Sports in Thailand has unveiled a new initiative aimed at providing assistance to foreign tourists who face accidents or losses during their visits to the country. The Assistance Scheme for Foreign Tourist Injury and Casualty, set forth for the fiscal year 2024, endeavors to extend financial aid to affected tourists under specific terms and conditions outlined by the ministry.
To qualify for compensation under this scheme, tourists must be foreign nationals holding valid passports with tourist visas and must have visited Thailand between January 1 and August 31, 2024. The scheme encompasses various incidents not attributable to the tourists’ negligence, including offenses against the body and life, accidents, bodily harm, or death resulting from theft, rape, and public endangerment, among others.
Compensation packages under the scheme include up to 1,000,000 baht per person for death or dismemberment, 300,000 baht for permanent disability, eyesight loss, or total disability preventing any occupational duties, and up to 500,000 baht for medical and domestic transportation expenses within Thailand.
Tourists who already possess insurance coverage can claim the difference up to the specified limits. Claims must be accompanied by requisite documentation, including passport copies, medical reports, police reports, and legal heir documentation in case of death, and must be submitted within 15 days from the incident or diagnosis.
Final decisions regarding compensation will be made by the Ministry’s Committee, with the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism and Sports retaining discretion over eligibility and authorization of payments. Claims related to incidents occurring from January 1, 2024, must be submitted within 15 days following this announcement, with September 15, 2024, set as the final deadline for requests.
Applications for compensation can be lodged with the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, provincial Tourism and Sports Offices, and Tourist Assistance Centers at Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang International Airports, either via email or by post.
For complete details on the Foreign Tourist Injury and Casualty Support Program, visit www.t.ly/qWQ6b.
