Thailand has officially delayed the launch of its much-anticipated travel entry fee for foreign tourists—known as the “Kha Yeap Pan Din” or “stepping onto Thai soil” fee—pushing its implementation to the second or third quarter of 2026. Initially scheduled for 2025, the move comes as Thailand grapples with lower-than-expected tourist arrivals and economic headwinds, with officials citing ongoing “external uncertainties” and the need to reassess demand during peak travel seasons. Under the proposed structure, air travelers would be charged 300 baht (approximately Rs 800), while those entering by land or sea would pay 150 baht (about Rs 400). The collected revenue is earmarked to upgrade tourist infrastructure and provide basic insurance coverage for visitors. Despite the delay, Thailand continues efforts to modernize its tourism sector, notably with the rollout of a new digital entry system, aiming to streamline arrivals and enhance the visitor experience as the nation seeks to revive momentum in a sector vital to its economy, which contributes nearly 20% to GDP.
