Thailand ETA rumors: Everything we know so far

According to a recent announcement from the Thai Government, a new travel requirement will be implemented in 2025. Here’s what we know so far about the Thailand ETA and what it could mean for travelers.

Thailand is preparing for a significant change in how it processes incoming visitors. Rumors have been circulating about the launch of a new Thailand Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system, which is expected to modernize entry processes and make visiting Thailand easier for millions of tourists.

Planning a trip to Thailand soon? Find out if you’ll need a visa

What is the Thailand ETA?

The Thailand ETA is a digital visa system that allows travelers to apply for permission to enter Thailand online before their trip. This system is expected to replace the traditional visa on arrival (VoA) and eliminate the need for travelers to apply for a visa at embassies or consulates.

According to an official statement published by the Thai Embassy, this new travel requirement for visitors to Thailand is set to come into effect in 2025, aligning with the country’s broader efforts to streamline entry for international visitors.

The ETA will apply to tourists, business travelers, and others on short-term visits. Similar to the UK’s ETA plans. This move reflects Thailand's desire to make travel more convenient and accessible, especially for frequent international travelers who may currently face long queues for visa processing upon arrival, as well as tighten security at the border.

Rumors of Canadian and Australian citizens being the first affected

There has been growing speculation that Canadian and Australian citizens may soon be included in the list of nationalities eligible for the ETA visa for Thailand. Under this new system, Canadians and Australians would need to apply for this new travel requirement online.

The Thai Embassy has also hinted at possible changes to the length of stays allowed under the ETA. Currently, the standard visa-on-arrival allows tourists to stay for 30 days, but this could be extended under the new Thailand ETA regulations, providing more flexibility for tourists planning longer vacations.

What this means for tourists

Once implemented, the Thailand ETA will be a game-changer for tourists. It will simplify the entry process, removing the need for paper-based applications or waiting in long lines for a visa stamp at the airport. Travelers can expect the online application process to be fast and straightforward, similar to systems already in place in countries like Australia, Canada, and the European Union’s Schengen Area.

However, it will be an extra step for travelers from currently visa-exempt countries like the USA, the UK, and Australia.

For those eligible, the ETA tourist visa for Thailand will allow short-term stays, typically ranging from 30 to 90 days, depending on the traveler’s nationality and the purpose of their visit.

Fulbright Thailand ETA speculation

Alongside tourist visas, there has been speculation about the inclusion of the Fulbright Thailand ETA, which would streamline the visa process for participants in the prestigious Fulbright educational exchange program. The implementation of the ETA system could make it easier for college graduates and researchers to participate in academic exchanges – further strengthening Thailand’s educational and cultural ties with other countries.

The flightpath for the Thailand ETA 2025

The new travel requirements for visitors to Thailand are set to come into effect in 2025, as confirmed by the Thai Embassy. This includes the full implementation of the ETA system, which is expected to cover most short-term visitors, including tourists, business travelers, and participants in cultural or academic programs. The goal is to make Thailand more accessible by leveraging digital solutions for faster, more efficient visa processing.

While there is still some uncertainty surrounding the exact rollout schedule and eligibility criteria for the new Thailand ETA, it is clear that the Thai Government is committed to modernizing its visa processes. The upcoming changes in 2025 are expected to significantly enhance the travel experience for millions of international visitors, making it faster, more secure, and more convenient to enter Thailand.

As the Thailand ETA launch approaches, travelers should stay informed about the new requirements. Once implemented, the system will revolutionize the way tourists and other short-term visitors enter Thailand, providing a more seamless and stress-free entry process.

Planning a trip to Thailand soon? Find out if you’ll need a visa