Starting on 1 December 2024, Thailand will pilot a new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system for visa-exempt travelers. This will allow a single entry and is valid for up to 60 days, with the option to extend the stay by an additional 30 days. Travelers entering Thailand by air, land, or sea must obtain an approved ETA before arrival.
The application process is fully digital, accessible via the official Thai e-Visa website, and is free of charge. This new system is designed to streamline the immigration process, allowing ETA holders to use automated gates for faster entry by scanning a QR code.
After the pilot phase, the ETA will be integrated into the existing e-Visa platform, with full implementation expected by June 2025.
This initiative applies to travelers from 93 countries, including Singapore, Indonesia, Japan, and Hong Kong. However, Malaysian tourists are exempt from needing an ETA.
Diplomatic or official passport holders, those with a U.N. Laissez-Passer, and tourists from Laos and Cambodia are also exempt from this requirement.
Thailand remains a popular destination for Malaysians, especially the southern regions. In August, Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad (KTMB) and the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) announced the reinstatement of a direct train service between Penang and Bangkok.
For more info, visit Thai e-Visa website.
Also read:
UK to Introduce ETA for Malaysian Travelers Starting Next Year
