Over the past week there has been a lot of discussion around proposals for an Electronic Travel Authorization system to enter Thailand. A lot of confusing and mixed information has come out, including some travel blogs that claimed it was already in effect (It is not, at least for most countries) and that it was a surefire thing to arrive in December. (Also a no.)
Therefore, The Pattaya News with our friends at Anglo Siam Legal that also grand opens this week in Pattaya would like to set the record straight. It's important to note all this information is a proposal and preliminary and as such highly subject to change, especially with a brand new government in place. We can't be any more clear that it's too early to panic over this and that like many things in Thailand, this could suddenly change.
The proposed Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system for Thailandrepresents a significant update to the country's immigration and tourism policies, aimed at enhancing security, managing visitor flows, and simplifying entry processes for foreigners. Here's an overview based on the information available up to September 8th, 2024. Again, this is a proposal, not a set in stone, guaranteed to happen plan:
– Purpose and Scope: The ETA system is designed to act as a pre-arrival security check for foreigners who are currently eligible for visa-free entry into Thailand. This includes nationals from over 100 countries. The system's introduction is part of a broader strategy to manage and monitor the influx of tourists while ensuring national security, according to the Thai government.
– Implementation Timeline: The ETA system is currently set for a limited pilot launch by December 2024, with full implementation expected by June 2025. This phased approach allows for testing and refinement before a complete rollout. These dates, as noted, could suddenly change and as December is the busiest month of the year we feel that it very well may.
– Functionality: Unlike a visa, the ETA is more akin to a digital authorization that must be obtained before travel. It's not a physical document but a digital approval that facilitates entry through automated passport gates at immigration checkpoints. The application for an ETA will be processed online via Thailand's official e-Visa website. Thailand claims the process will be simple, fast, and hassle free…but anyone who has had experience with prior systems like Thailand Pass during Covid or even the Immigration online 90 day check-in system has been skeptical about this promise.
– Application Process: While specific requirements for the ETA application are yet to be fully disclosed, including if longer term visa holders coming and going may need one, it's anticipated that travelers might need to provide proof of accommodation, outbound travel, and possibly other personal details. The ETA is expected to be free of charge, distinguishing it from other countries' systems where fees might apply. Again, it's too early for one to speculate or panic over the requirements.
– Impact on Travel: This system will in theory require all visa-exempt foreigners entering Thailand by air, land, or sea to obtain an ETA. It's designed to be a one-time authorization per entry, meaning travelers would need to apply for a new ETA for each visit to Thailand, unlike some other ETA systems that offer multi-entry over several years. Again, however, this could change.
Many countries, we note, have similar systems that work fairly well, like Malaysia and Singapore or the US. The concern from many of our readers however is Thailand over complicating the system and requiring excessive steps, information, details, etc. There are also concerns about the security of personal information and possible technical failures such as mystery rejections, as seen with Thailand Pass during Covid or the Immigration online check in system.
For now, we emphasize once again that it is too early for people to worry about this in detail regarding their future trips and Thailand is well aware that putting any barriers to tourism or making things difficult for tourists will hurt their ever important tourism industry.
As more information is released we will let you know all that we learn here at TPN Media and Anglo Siam Legal.
Consider reaching out to Anglo Siam Legal for assistance with any problems you may have had or questions regarding legal matters, including legal issues around visas.
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