Bangkok, November 9, 2025
In a bid to supercharge its post-pandemic tourism rebound and offset a projected dip in overall arrivals, Thailand's Tourism Authority has confirmed an extension of its visa exemption scheme for Indian passport holders, allowing visa-free stays of up to 60 days starting December 1, 2025. The policy, which builds on a temporary measure introduced in 2024, is extendable by an additional 30 days and targets a record 2.5 million Indian visitors next year—up from over one million already clocked by mid-2025—positioning beach paradises like Phuket and the bustling streets of Bangkok as must-visit hotspots for cost-conscious Indian travelers.
The announcement, made during a virtual press briefing from Bangkok's Government House, comes amid Thailand's high season kickoff, where hotel rates in popular enclaves are already surging 20-30% year-on-year. "India is our fastest-growing market, and this extension removes barriers for longer, more immersive trips," said Tourism and Sports Minister Sudawan Wangsuphakijkosol. "From Phuket's turquoise bays to Bangkok's temple-lined Chao Phraya, we're inviting families and adventurers to stay longer, spend more, and create lasting memories."
### Policy Perks: Seamless Entry, Extended Exploration
Under the updated exemption, effective for ordinary Indian passports, travelers can enter Thailand without a visa for tourism or short-term business, enjoying 60 days on arrival—double the previous 30-day cap that lapsed earlier this year. Extensions are available at local immigration offices for another 30 days, capping total stays at 90 days, subject to officer discretion. No advance application is needed; a valid passport (six months validity), return ticket, and proof of funds suffice at Suvarnabhumi or Phuket International Airports.
This isn't Thailand's first overture to Indian outbound tourism, which has ballooned 40% since 2023 borders reopened. The kingdom already waived visa fees for Indians in 2024, contributing to a mid-year milestone of over one million arrivals—primarily from Mumbai, Delhi, and Bengaluru hubs. Yet, with global headwinds like a 7.5% drop in foreign visitors through September (25 million total so far), Bangkok is doubling down on South Asia. "We're shifting gears to Tier-II cities like Ahmedabad and Lucknow, promoting premium wellness retreats and cultural circuits," added TAT Governor Thapanee Kiatphaiboon, unveiling a ₹500 crore marketing blitz featuring Bollywood tie-ups and influencer campaigns.
### Phuket and Bangkok: The Indian Itinerary Stars
No Thai getaway is complete without these icons, and Indians are flocking in droves. Phuket, with its Phi Phi Islands day trips and Patong Beach nightlife, snagged 35% of Indian bookings in Q3, per Agoda data, fueled by affordable all-inclusives starting at ₹5,000/night. "The visa ease means we can tack on a Krabi extension—beaches by day, Thai massages by evening," enthused Priya Sharma, a Mumbai-based travel vlogger who chronicled her 45-day sojourn on Instagram, racking up 200K views.
Bangkok, Asia's top holiday spot for 2025 per Smart Travel Asia, captivates with its Grand Palace glow-ups and Chatuchak Market hauls—drawing 45% of first-timers for 4-5 day layovers en route to the Andamans. Emerging favorites like Pattaya's water parks and Chiang Mai's elephant sanctuaries round out the top five, with TAT forecasting a 25% uptick in family packages. "Indians love value-for-money luxury; we're curating halal-friendly tours and Diwali specials to hit that 2.5 million mark," said a Phuket resort chain exec.
### Economic Boost Amid Broader Challenges
The gambit couldn't come at a better time. Indian tourists pumped ₹15,000 crore into Thailand's coffers in H1 alone, outpacing pre-COVID highs and propping up a sector reeling from China's safety jitters and a projected 33.4 million total visitors for 2025—down 6% from 2024. Flight schedules tell the tale: IndiGo and Air India added 15 weekly flights from Tier-II cities, while low-cost carriers like SpiceJet slashed fares to ₹8,000 round-trip.
Critics, however, flag overcrowding risks. "Phuket's beaches are bursting; we need sustainable caps," warned a local environmentalist, citing 2024's waste surge from 1.8 million Indians. TAT counters with eco-levies on plastic and a "Leave No Trace" app for visitors.
As winter escapes beckon, the Land of Smiles extends its arms wider. "Pack your thali and tuk-tuk spirit—Thailand's calling for 60 days of bliss," quipped Sharma. For bookings, Indian agents report a 30% inquiry spike post-announcement. Visa-free wanderlust, it seems, is the ultimate high-season hack.
This report synthesizes TAT releases, industry analytics, and traveler insights. Verify entry rules at thaievisa.go.th; Indian travelers, dial 1800-11-3333 for advisories.
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