# Thailand and China “visa-free era” begins

- Link: https://www.thailand-business-news.com/tourism/128977-thailand-and-china-visa-free-era-begins
- Published: 2024-03-02T15:46:48+07:00
- Author: Zhang Fang

A permanent visa-free agreement between Thailand and China, took effect on March
1. This agreement is expected to significantly ease travel for citizens of both 
countries.

## Key Takeaways

 * The permanent visa-free agreement between Thailand and China is expected to significantly
   boost tourism and benefit Thai passport holders by saving visa application costs
   and time.
 * The agreement has already led to an increase in Chinese tourists visiting Thailand,
   benefiting local businesses and the overall economy.
 * The Thai government aims to negotiate similar visa-free agreements with European
   countries in order to further enhance the country’s international image and tourism
   industry.

Tourists and business owners have expressed their appreciation for the convenience
and cost savings that this agreement will bring. It is also viewed as a positive
step in rebuilding the confidence of Chinese tourists in Thailand, with expectations
of an increase in tourism and revenue.

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[Chinese tourists](https://www.thailand-business-news.com/tourism/108848-chinese-visitor-arrivals-still-below-pre-covid-levels)
were the largest group before the pandemic and accounted for a significant portion
of Thailand’s tourist arrivals. The visa exemption aims to enhance people-to-people
exchanges and is expected to stimulate the post-pandemic recovery.

The agreement has significantly increased tourism and strengthened bilateral relations.
Chinese tourists have shown great enthusiasm for visiting Thailand multiple times.
The Thai government has observed a sharp rise in Chinese tourist arrivals and anticipates
further growth with the visa waivers in place. The agreement is considered a milestone
in Thailand-China relations and is expected to enhance people-to-people exchanges
and mutual trust between the two countries.

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The Thai government is also trying to negotiate similar agreements with European
countries.

Thailand has established visa-free agreements with several countries, allowing travelers
to enter without a visa under certain conditions. Here are some key points:

 * **Tourist Visa Exemption Scheme**: Passport holders from **64 countries** can
   enter Thailand without a visa for up to **30 days** when entering through an 
   international airport or land border checkpoint.
 * **Extended Stays**: Travelers from **Korea, Brazil, Peru, Argentina, and Chile**
   can stay for up to **90 days** under the Tourist Visa Exemption Scheme.

These agreements facilitate travel and tourism, contributing to the mutual benefit
of Thailand and its partner countries.