The Royal Thai Government has extended the tourist visa fee exemption scheme that had expired in March 2010. As a result of the decision, foreign citizens that qualify for a tourist visa are not subjected to a visa fee. The exemption scheme will be in effect from 11 May 2010 until 31 March 2011 (the fee exemption is not extended to other types of visas).

For further information please contact the Consular Department, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand (662-981-7171)or the Royal Thai Missions or visit Visas and Travel Documents webpage.

Source: Ministry Of Foreign Affairs

This inforamtion is also being discussed in news clippings, here: http://www.thaivisa.com/forum/Thailand-Ext...-E-t360483.html

In this thread in the visa section only discuss questions regarding to the free visas itself, not questions like if it will really help the Thai economy.

Just a reminder that free tourist visas will be availeble starting tomorrow.

Just a reminder that free tourist visas will be availeble starting tomorrow.

LA and washington DC consulates in the US haven't updated their website to this fact, not that I expect information.

Several other embassies have, as has the Thai ministry of Foreign Affairs.

All foreigners who apply for Tourist Visa at the Royal Thai Embassies and the Royal Thai Consulates-General worldwide, including eligible foreigners who apply for Visa on Arrival at designated checkpoints, will be exempted from Tourist Visa fee from 11 May B.E. 2553 (2010) to 31 March B.E. 2554 (2011). Such arrangement is for Tourist Visa only.

http://www.mfa.go.th/web/2637.php

It does also apply to Visa on Arrival.

LA consulate web site has been updated - http://www.thai-la.net/visa/visa-tourist-us.htm - I'm heading there tomorrow to get my visa and I'll report back here if they give me any problems