Thai government proposes flat 450‑baht fee for foreign visitors, eyes rollout in 2027

Bangkok, September 13 — The Thai government is currently soliciting public feedback on a proposed tourism fee of 450 baht (approximately RM55.35) for all foreign visitors, according to the Ministry of Tourism and Sports. Once the public consultation period ends on September 28, the proposal will be presented to the National Tourism Policy Committee for review.

Speaking to reporters, Minister Surasak Phancharoenworakul revealed that the proposed fee will remain at 450 baht per person, irrespective of the mode of arrival, be it air, land, or sea. Minister Phancharoenworakul disclosed that the revenue generated from this fee will be allocated towards enhancing Thailand's tourism infrastructure and safety standards.

He explained, "The funds raised will go towards upgrading Thailand's tourism infrastructure and safety standards, helping the sector grow without relying entirely on the state budget." The Thai government anticipates initiating the collection of this fee in the first quarter of 2027, provided it receives Cabinet approval and is published in the Royal Gazette.

The concept of a tourist entry fee in Thailand has been under discussion since as early as 2019 to 2020, with the flat rate of 450 baht being proposed in August of this year after undergoing revisions. In 2022, Thailand welcomed around 33 million foreign tourists, which could potentially generate an estimated 14.8 billion baht for the tourism fund, as reported by Bernama.