Bangkok : The tourism tax of THB 300 a person will come into effect for foreign tourists by the end of 2025, Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong said on February 27.

He expects the tourism tax scheme to come into effect during Thailand's high season later in the year, provided the scheme is endorsed via publication in the Royal Gazette in March.

Details of the scheme are not as yet clear, he said, adding that the ministry is working on linking data to the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) to facilitate tax collection. The TDAC will come into force on May 1.

Sorawong explained that foreign travellers arriving by air will be charged THB 300/person/trip. Those who cross into the country either by land and water will also be charged THB 300, but would be entitled to enter several times within 30-60 days, he said.

He said the ministry will summarize this issue at a later date to ensure that all foreigners using a passport to visit Thailand will be able to access life and accident insurance.

Sorawong does not expect the tourism tax scheme will cause a decline in foreign arrivals as the tax is low. Several embassies have confirmed that this scheme is a good plan as it will allow travelers to access insurance, he claimed.

He emphasized that the tourism tax system will be one-stop-service to facilitate travelers.