Two Popular Destinations Ease Entry Requirements
November 01, 2023
In a welcome move for travelers, Thailand and Sri Lanka have recently announced visa-free entry for Indian tourists, providing them with easier access to explore these popular destinations.
Sri Lanka:
Sri Lanka’s Foreign Minister shared the news on social media, declaring that citizens from several countries, including India, can now visit the island nation without the need for a visa. In a post, the minister stated, “Cabinet approves issuing of free visas to India, China, Russia, Malaysia, Japan, Indonesia & Thailand with immediate effect as a pilot project till March 31.”
Thailand:
Thailand, known for its stunning landscapes and vibrant culture, is taking a bold step to revive its tourism industry after facing challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin announced that India would be one of the countries granted visa-free entry for up to 30 days as part of a six-month trial, set to begin in the upcoming month.
Thailand’s tourism sector has historically contributed significantly to its GDP, accounting for nearly 20 percent. However, it has faced difficulties in recovering from the impact of the global pandemic.
The Prime Minister shared the rationale behind this decision, explaining, “We will provide visa-free entry to India and Taiwan because a lot of their people like to travel to Thailand.”
Previously, Indian tourists had to apply for a 15-day visa-on-arrival at immigration checkpoints, which involved presenting a bank statement and proof of accommodation. This new policy is expected to simplify the travel process and make Thailand an even more attractive destination for Indian visitors.
According to data from the tourism ministry, approximately 1.2 million Indians visited Thailand during the first nine months of 2023, making them the fourth largest group of tourists after those from Malaysia, China, and South Korea.
This move is likely to encourage more Indian travelers to explore these beautiful countries without the added complexity of obtaining a visa, benefiting both the tourism industries and the travelers looking to experience the wonders of Sri Lanka and Thailand.
