Thailand’s new entry fee and departure tax could raise travel costs for foreign tourists by nearly $80

Thailand is introducing two new travel fees that may hike costs for foreign tourists by nearly $80. The government plans to implement a 450-baht entry fee for air arrivals, possibly starting in the first quarter of 2027. This fee would generate around 8 billion baht annually, earmarked for tourism infrastructure, natural resource restoration, and insurance. It is proposed to be collected at land and sea borders, with a one-year delay to tackle operational and system issues.

Additionally, a 1,000-baht departure tax on all air passengers, including Thai nationals, has been suggested. This tax faces public consultation until October 29, with a potential maximum of 5,000 baht. The Revenue Department plans to collect it upon departure, excluding children under two, foreign heads of state, government guests, and international transit passengers in specific areas.

The departure tax legislation would be effective 180 days after parliamentary approval and publication in the Royal Gazette. However, passengers who booked tickets before the effective date would not be charged.

If these two fees were to take effect together, combined with the current 1,120-baht international passenger service fee at major airports, which was raised in June, the total travel expenses for foreign air tourists could rise to 2,570 baht (around HK$599). This represents an increase of 1,450 baht (approximately $36) compared to the current charges.

The two new fees alone would amount to 1,450 baht, posing a significant additional burden on travelers and potentially affecting Thailand's appeal as a tourist destination relative to other regional alternatives.