Thailand’s Royal Embassy Announces Visa Fee Increase for New Zealanders

(CTN News) – The Royal Thai Embassy in Wellington has announced an upcoming increase in visa fees for New Zealanders planning to visit Thailand, effective March 19.

This announcement has raised concerns among social media users that other nationalities might also face a similar fee hike.

According to the embassy’s official website, the visa fee adjustments are being made in compliance with relevant laws, regulations, and exchange rates. The updated fees have been detailed in a document released by the embassy.

In addition to the fee increase, the embassy has stated that it will no longer accept physical visa applications starting March 19. Travelers wishing to visit Thai will be required to apply for their visa online.

Other embassy offices have not issued any statements regarding visa fee adjustments. Following the clarification provided by the Royal Thai Embassy in Wellington, these revised fees specifically apply to New Zealand citizens.

However, there exists a potential for visa application fees from other countries to also undergo increases.

Updates and Insights on Thailand’s Tourism and Visa Policies

The Royal Thai Embassy in Wellington advises individuals intending to enter Thailand to remain vigilant regarding announcements from respective embassy offices.

Chai Watchaong, spokesperson for the Prime Minister’s Office, disclosed that Thailand granted visa-free entry to 60 countries in 2023 and intends to expand this privilege to more nations in the future to bolster Thai tourism.

New Zealand is not included in the Thai government’s tourism stimulation plan. Recently, Thailand approved permanent visa-free travel for Chinese nationals and extended a visa-free program for Kazakh citizens until August of the current year to further promote Thai tourism.

Chinese tourists continue to be a primary focus for the country, with Thailand anticipating the arrival of 8 million Chinese visitors this year. Efforts to increase flight connections between Thailand and China are underway to facilitate tourism.