Thailand Is Working on the New ETA System
Thailand is launching a new Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system. Its pilot phase is expected to be effective from December 1, 2024. The full implementation is scheduled for June 2025.
Introduced alongside the expansion of the visa exemption and visa-on-arrival programs, the initiative is aimed at increasing tourism and economic growth in Thailand.
The New Electronic Travel Authorization system should improve security by monitoring travelers arriving in the country. Moreover, it will help to reduce congestion at immigration checkpoints.
The information on the validity period and permitted stay under the ETA is yet to be fully revealed.
Who Needs a Thailand ETA?
The ETA will be mandatory for foreign travelers who are willing to enter Thailand by air, land, or sea and are eligible for:
- Visa-free entry to Thailand (allowed stay for 15 days or 30 days)
- A visa on arrival (VOA)
- Exemption (60-day stay without a visa)
The requirement will apply to visitors from more than 100 countries, including Australia, China, New Zealand, and the UK.
However, high-level officials, diplomatic passport holders, and holders of all types of long-term visas (non-immigrant visas), a destination Thailand visa (DTV), or a tourist visa (TR) (issued by the Thai embassy before entry into Thailand) don’t have to register in the travel authorization system.
How to Apply for an ETA to Thailand?
The Thailand ETA will be possible to obtain online. The official channel and detailed application process have not yet been announced.
Still, we can expect that the ETA application procedure will be similar to the eVisa one.
This means eligible travelers will have to fill out the form with their basic personal and travel information, upload the required documents, and pay the fee.
Thailand Entry Requirements
Thailand ETA holders will be able to use automated gates at immigration checkpoints – they will be required to scan a QR code provided by the system.
Travelers without a valid ETA registration will be stopped by airline staff before boarding or at the border upon arrival.
Besides, all foreign visitors to Qatar must have:
- A valid passport
- Tickets for travel to and from Thailand.
- Accommodation details (reservations or residential address)
- Proof of sufficient funds (e.g., 10,000 THB for solo travelers, 20,000 THB per family)
- Work permit copy (if required)
NOTE: The entry rules may change at short notice. Make sure to check the recent information from official Thailand sources before your travel.
