Thailand introduces new international tourist arrival tax

The Government of Thailand is introducing a new tourist tax of 300 THB (US$10) for all overseas visitors starting in April.

The tax was announced last week and will take effect after being published in Thailand’s Royal Gazette, the country’s national journal and newspaper of record.

Some of the tax money is allocated for overseas tourists who are unable to pay their healthcare bills while the rest will go towards the management of local tourist attractions.

Travel insurance will not be replaced by the money set aside for medical expenses.

The pandemic has significantly impacted Thailand’s tourism industry, which saw less than 200,000 visitors in 2020 compared to over 40 million expected in 2019.

In addition to pre-payment for COVID-19 testing, hotel accommodations or quarantine, and insurance with COVID-19 treatment coverage of at least US$50,000, Thailand now has…