Visa is not a barrier.

VHO - Thailand's decision to end the 60-day visa-free policy for Indian citizens and revert to visa-on-arrival is raising concerns about a potential decline in visitors from one of its largest source markets. However, given the development of the region's tourism industry, changes to entry procedures are unlikely to become a major obstacle preventing Indian tourists from entering the country.

Over the years, Thailand has become one of the most popular international destinations for Indians. In 2025, the country welcomed over 2.48 million Indian visitors, and in the first five months of 2026 alone, it recorded approximately 1.1 million. These figures reflect Thailand's enduring appeal to India's rapidly growing middle class and its increasing demand for overseas travel .

It's worth noting that visa costs aren't a major barrier. The 2,000 baht fee for a visa on arrival or 1,000 baht for an e-visa represents only a small fraction of the total travel budget. For most Indian travelers, especially independent travelers, luxury vacationers, or health tourists, this fee is unlikely to significantly impact their travel decisions. Instead, they are more concerned with airfare, service quality, the convenience of direct flights, and the destination experience.

Furthermore, Indian tourists' desire to explore Thailand is becoming increasingly diverse. While Bangkok and Phuket were previously almost the default choices, many new destinations such as Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Pai, and Koh Chang are now being actively promoted by travel agencies. This diversity of tourism products helps Thailand maintain its competitiveness even as entry regulations become stricter.

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From a management perspective, the shift from visa-free entry to visa-on-arrival also offers certain benefits. This policy helps authorities better control the flow of people entering the country, limiting overstaying or using tourist visas for illegal work. This is a problem not only Thailand but many major tourist destinations around the world are facing. If implemented effectively, this measure could contribute to protecting the image of genuine tourists and improving destination management.

Of course, the changes could still have a certain impact on mass tourism groups, who are more sensitive to costs and procedures. However, with a population of over 1.4 billion, a constantly expanding middle class, and a strong demand for international travel, the Indian market remains a strategic source of tourists that Thailand can hardly ignore.

Therefore, the issue is not about whether or not to grant visa exemptions, but about maintaining the attractiveness of the destination. As long as prices remain competitive, flight routes are convenient, and travel experiences continue to improve, changing visa regulations is unlikely to deter Indian tourists from visiting Thailand.

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Source: https://baovanhoa.vn/du-lich/visa-khong-phai-rao-can-237014.html