Thailand's 450-baht tourist fee could start for air arrivals in early 2027

The Ministry of Tourism and Sports wants to charge foreign visitors 450 baht on entry, The Thaiger reported on 29 October 2026. Collection would start with eligible air arrivals, possibly in early 2027, and reach land and sea borders a year after that. The proposal still has to pass the National Tourism Policy Committee and Cabinet, and the payment method, insurance terms and start date are not fixed.

Part of the money would pay for insurance covering death and medical costs of fee-paying tourists; the ministry expects at least 8 billion baht a year to remain for attractions and conservation. Exemptions under study include work permit holders, transit passengers and children under two. In an online consultation of 5,954 people, 78.3% backed the 450-baht rate and 36.26% preferred adding it to the air ticket.

The Thai Hotels Association and the Association of Thai Travel Agents support the fee but question the compulsory insurance, since many visitors already travel insured. The fee is separate from the 1,000-baht departure tax, which the Finance Ministry put on hold in October.