Thailand has extended its visa-free entry window for Indians beyond November.

The facility, implemented on November 10, 2023, was to end on May 10, 2024, but later extended till November 11, 2024.

“The visa-free entry facility has been extended beyond November 2024, till further notice,” said an official of the Tourism Authority of Thailand. Visa-free entry, the official said, led to a significant rise in the flow of tourists from India.

Thailand has also extended its visa exemption window from 30 to 60 days and is
offering the facility to more countries.

“Thailand will grant visa exemption for nationals of 93 countries and territories including India, up from 57 countries previously. Visitors under this scheme will be allowed to stay for tourism purposes and short-term business engagements for a period not exceeding 60 days, which can be extended at the immigration office for another period not exceeding 30 days,” read a statement from the Tourism Authority of Thailand.

Earlier, the exemption was for a stay for up to 30 days.

“The extension of the visa-free entry facility will encourage many more people from Calcutta to visit Thailand. Thai AirAsia will start a daily flight between Calcutta and Phuket on October 27. Another airline may also fly on the route,” said Anil Punjabi, of the Travel Agents Federation of India.

Thailand has also launched two more visa schemes — Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) and Student Visa.

“Destination Thailand Visa is for remote workers, digital nomads, and freelancers as well as participants of activities — Muay Thai courses, Thai cooking classes, sport training, medical treatments, seminars, and music festivals. Spouses and dependent children of DTV holders will also be eligible,” said the statement.