Thailand has postponed the introduction of its 300-baht entry fee for international visitors, citing a slower-than-expected rebound in global tourism. Initially planned for 2025, the fee will now be considered for rollout in the second or third quarter of 2026, the Ministry of Tourism and Sports confirmed.
The “Travel Fee for Foreign Tourists,” known in Thai as Kha Yeap Pan Din or “stepping onto Thai soil,” aims to fund infrastructure upgrades and provide insurance coverage for international travellers. The fee, approved in principle by the Cabinet in February 2023, proposes charging 300 baht for air arrivals and 150 baht for travellers entering by land or sea.
Assistant Tourism Minister Chakrapol Tangsutthitham said Tourism Minister Sorawong Thienthong decided to delay the launch following a review of current market conditions. “We must wait to assess international tourist demand during the upcoming high season in Q4 this year,” Chakrapol explained.
He added that more time is needed to evaluate the fee’s structure, including how it will apply across different modes of entry such as air, land, sea, and rail. Authorities hope the delay will allow for more precise demand forecasting and ensure fair implementation across all entry points.
The ministry will revisit the proposal after analyzing tourism data from the final quarter of 2025.
