Visa shift unlikely to deter Indians

Replacing visa-free entry with a visa-on-arrival scheme for Indian tourists will not affect this market as affordable prices remain the decisive factor for them, while the policy change can help curb visa abuse, according to an Indian travel agent.

The cabinet decided to end the 60-day visa exemption for 93 countries including India, which will be granted a visa-on-arrival (VoA) service similar to the one used prior to 2024.

Amit Gilani, owner of TravelButler in Mumbai, which specialises in outbound groups and bookings for independent travellers from India, said VoA is sufficient for Indian tourists and strong year-round demand to visit Thailand persists.

Mr Gilani said the VoA costs 2,000 baht, which is not too expensive for Indian travellers. They can also apply for an e-visa for 1,000 baht.

He said the adjustment could help screen Indians who intend to exploit tourist visas by overstaying or working illegally in Thailand, based on previous records.

"This is a good move by Thailand. Hopefully this won't tarnish India's name any further," said Mr Gilani.

The Tourism and Sports Ministry also plans to propose to the National Visa Policy Committee that Indian visitors be granted a 15-day visa exemption, as India is one of Thailand's top five source markets.

If the 15-day visa exemption is granted to Indian tourists, Mr Gilani said the length should be sufficient for most travellers as they do not typically stay longer than two weeks, including those who book wellness packages.

TravelButler is promoting wellness trips in Thailand, offering mental and physical retreats at hotels and resorts for 12-15 days. He said these products are gaining popularity among Indian travellers.

The top Thai destinations for Indians remain Phuket and Bangkok, thanks to several direct flights from many cities in India, said Mr Gilani.

Indian travellers are keen to explore new places, such as Koh Chang, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai and Pai district, as travel agents are promoting more destinations after attending familiarisation trips arranged by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT).

Patsee Permvongsenee, executive director of the Asean, South Asia and South Pacific region at TAT, said the agency is targeting 2.55 million Indian tourists this year, provided the visa exemption scheme remains in place.

Last year, more than 2.48 million Indian tourists visited Thailand. As of June 7, the country had welcomed 1.1 million Indian arrivals, making India the third-largest inbound market.

Mrs Patsee said if the VoA is implemented, the agency may lower the target at a later stage.

Based on discussions with Indian travel agents, the scheme is expected to affect mass tour groups more than luxury and independent travellers, she said.