Replacing visa-free entry with a visa-on-arrival (VoA) scheme for Indian tourists is unlikely to significantly affect travel demand to Thailand, according to an Indian travel agent, who said affordability remains the key factor for visitors from India.
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The Thai cabinet has decided to end the 60-day visa exemption for 93 countries, including India. Under the new arrangement, Indian travellers will be granted access through a visa-on-arrival service, similar to the system used before 2024.
Amit Gilani, owner of TravelButler in Mumbai, which specialises in outbound groups and independent traveller bookings, said the change should not discourage most Indian visitors. He noted that the VoA fee of 2,000 baht remains affordable for Indian tourists, while travellers also have the option of applying for an e-visa costing 1,000 baht.
Mr Gilani said the policy adjustment could help Thailand screen visitors who may seek to abuse tourist visas by overstaying or working illegally in the country. He welcomed the move, saying: “This is a good move by Thailand. Hopefully this won’t tarnish India’s name any further.”
The Tourism and Sports Ministry is also planning to propose to the National Visa Policy Committee that Indian visitors receive a 15-day visa exemption, reflecting India’s status as one of Thailand’s top five tourism source markets.
Mr Gilani said a 15-day exemption would be adequate for most Indian travellers, including those booking wellness retreats, as visitors typically stay for no more than two weeks. TravelButler currently promotes 12 to 15-day wellness packages focused on mental and physical wellbeing, which are becoming increasingly popular among Indian tourists.
Phuket, Pattaya and Bangkok remain the most popular destinations for Indian travellers due to the availability of direct flights from numerous Indian cities. However, interest is growing in destinations such as Koh Chang, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai and Pai, supported by promotional efforts and familiarisation trips organised 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 arrivals in 2026, provided the visa exemption scheme remains in place.
More than 2.48 million Indian tourists visited Thailand in 2025. As of 7 June 2026, Thailand had welcomed 1.1 million Indian arrivals, making India the country’s third-largest inbound market.
The Bangkokpost reported that Mrs Patsee said the target could be revised downward if the VoA system is implemented. Based on discussions with Indian travel agents, she said the change is expected to affect mass tour groups more than luxury or independent travellers.
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Adapted by ASEAN Now Bangkokpost 14 June 2026
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