Visitors to a popular holiday destination are likely to rejoice as the country has decide to postpone the introduction of a new tourist tax. Thailand was set to introduce a tourist entry fee, officially called the ‘Stepping Onto Thai Soil’ charge.
The Ministry of Tourism and Sports has confirmed that the tax is now expected to be implemented in the second or third quarter of 2026. The delay has been attributed to ongoing uncertainty in global and domestic tourism following the pandemic, with officials wanting to avoid putting off visitors. The tourist tax will have a tiered structure—it would cost £6.88 for those arriving by plane and £3.44 for those arriving by car or boat, who would also be granted multiple entries within a 30 to 60-day window.
The difference in fees aims to reflect operational costs while maintaining accessibility for those from neighbouring countries who typically enter the country by road.
Over 32.4 million people visited Thailand last year, according to Road Genius, meaning the tax could generate at least £111.5 million annually.
Revenue from the tax will be used to maintain and upgrade popular tourist destinations across Thailand, protecting the country’s natural and cultural heritage while improving visitor experience.
Money will also be used to provide basic insurance for international travellers, address safety concerns, and ensure quick access to emergency services, particularly in remote areas.
The tourist tax scheme, which originated in 2021 and was approved by the National Tourism Policy Committee, was initially scheduled to begin in 2022. It has been postponed numerous times since.
Deputy Minister of Tourism and Sports Jakraphon Tangsutthitham said the timeline for launching the tax requires adjustment, with the Ministry planning to closely monitor international tourist demand during the busy season of 2025 before making final decisions.