Bangkok, 18th Sept. From December 1, 2024, Thailand will implement an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system for visa-exempt travellers, including Indian visitors, to streamline immigration and enhance foreign national tracking.
This initiative, according to Thailand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, aims to bolster national security while improving visitor flow management, keeping Thailand’s status as a top global tourist destination intact.
The ETA will apply to nationals from 93 visa-exempt countries, excluding visitors from Laos, Cambodia, and Malaysia. Each ETA will grant a single entry, valid for up to 60 days, with an optional 30-day extension.
The application process will be entirely online, free of charge, and will enable travellers to use automated immigration clearance gates upon arrival by scanning a QR code linked to their ETA.
While the ETA will simplify entry procedures, travellers must comply with their stay limits to avoid penalties. The system will also be integrated with Thailand’s e-Visa platform by June 2025, creating a unified travel application process.
Further details on the rollout will be announced by the government in the coming months.
