Thailand’s Proposed 450-Baht Tourist Fee Nears Consultation Deadline

Thailand’s proposed 450-baht tourism fee for foreign visitors is still under public consultation, with the current hearing scheduled to close on September 28, 2026. The charge has not been approved and travellers do not need to pay it now.

The proposal would introduce a flat 450-baht fee per eligible foreign visitor, regardless of whether they arrive by air, land or sea. It replaces earlier versions of the plan that used different rates for air and overland or sea arrivals.

Under the government’s current outline, collection would begin first for air arrivals, 180 days after an approved measure is published in the Royal Gazette. Land and sea collection would follow later, after additional preparation at border crossings. That means there is no confirmed launch date, payment system or ticket surcharge in force at this stage.

What is being considered

The Ministry of Tourism and Sports says revenue would support tourism infrastructure and safety measures rather than relying entirely on the annual state budget. The proposal also considers several collection routes, including an official website, mobile application, airport or border kiosks, and possible collection through airline tickets.

A multiple-entry arrangement is also being considered for frequent visitors, particularly those crossing land borders, with one payment potentially covering a month of insurance-linked travel. The final rules, including eligibility, exemptions and the precise payment process, remain subject to the consultation and later government decisions.

What travellers should do now

Visitors with Thailand trips booked for late 2026 or early 2027 should not add the fee to a current travel budget as a confirmed charge. Check official Thai government notices, airline booking updates and the Thai Digital Arrival Card process closer to departure, especially if travelling overland or making repeated entries within a short period.

The consultation is the next formal step before the proposal returns to the National Tourism Policy Committee and could then be considered by Cabinet. Until an approved measure is published in the Royal Gazette, Thailand’s existing entry and visa requirements remain separate from the proposed tourism fee.