Thailand’s New Tourist Tax: What You Need to Know
Not long ago, we covered the introduction of an access tax for day-trippers visiting Venice. And now, the topic is back in the spotlight: another country is joining the list of destinations where foreign visitors must pay an entry fee—not for a visa or airline ticket, but simply for crossing the border.
This time, it’s Thailand. The Southeast Asian kingdom plans to implement a tourist tax for all foreign travelers by the end of 2025.
How Much Will Thailand’s Tourist Tax Cost?
On Thursday, February 27, Thailand’s Minister of Tourism and Sports, Sorawong Thienthong, announced the upcoming tourist tax. He stated that the scheme is expected to take effect during Thailand’s peak tourist season later this year. While the details remain unclear, the ministry is working on integrating the tax with the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) to streamline the collection process.
“If collection is complicated, it will be inconvenient. Our aim is to make the process as smooth as possible,” said Minister Sorawong Thienthong, as reported by Euronews.
Starting May 1, all foreign visitors must complete a digital arrival card (TM6 form) before entering Thailand. This mandatory online form applies to travelers from both visa-exempt and visa-required countries, regardless of their mode of entry—air, land, or sea.
When filling out the TM6 form, travelers must provide personal and travel details, including passport information and their accommodation address in Thailand. Importantly, the TM6 form is free of charge.
As for the tourist tax, the fee will be 300 baht (approximately $8.76) per trip for air travelers. Those entering by land or water will also be charged 300 baht, but their entry will be valid for multiple visits within 30 to 60 days, according to Minister Sorawong.
Will the New Tax Affect Tourism?
The Thai government does not expect the new fee to deter visitors, as the cost remains relatively low compared to similar taxes in other destinations. For example, Bhutan charges a daily tourist tax of $100 per visitor.
However, given Thailand’s immense popularity, the revenue could be substantial. The government projects that in 2025, around 40 million foreign tourists will visit Thailand, generating an estimated 3.5 trillion baht in tourism-related revenue.
Where Else Do Tourists Pay an Entry or Stay Tax?
Thailand’s new tourist tax is part of a growing global trend where governments implement fees to manage tourism sustainably and fund infrastructure. Several other countries have similar tourist taxes, varying by region and type of visitor. Here’s a list of some of them:
Europe
- Austria – Accommodation taxes vary by province.
- Belgium – Some cities impose tourist taxes.
- Croatia – Seasonal tourist taxes, averaging €1.33 per night.
- Czech Republic – Prague charges around CZK 50 ($1.97) per night.
- France – Paris has a high-end tax of up to €14.95 per night; a new nationwide system in 2025 will adjust rates based on accommodation type.
- Germany – Cultural and bed taxes add around 5% to hotel bills.
- Greece – Hotel taxes range up to €8 per day in peak season.
- Hungary – Budapest imposes a 4% nightly tax.
- Iceland – A nationwide $4.36 per night tourist tax applies to all visitors.
- Italy – Venice charges €5 for day visitors and €1-€5 per night for overnight stays. The city also plans a €10 entry fee for non-staying tourists.
- Netherlands – Amsterdam’s tourist tax is 12.50% of accommodation costs. Additional charges for cruise passengers will take effect in 2025.
- Portugal – Lisbon and Porto charge €2 per night in high season and €1 in low season.
- Romania – 1% tax on hotel room rates, with additional fees in some areas.
- Slovenia – Around €3 per night, depending on location.
- Spain – Barcelona’s tourist tax can reach €7.50 per night.
- Switzerland – Varies by location, typically 2.50 Swiss francs per night.
Asia
- Bhutan – A daily tourist tax of $100 supports sustainable tourism.
- Indonesia – Bali introduced a $9.59 entry fee in February 2024.
- Japan – A departure tax of ¥1,000 (approximately $9.25) applies to all foreign visitors.
Americas and Oceania
- Caribbean Islands – Tourist taxes vary by island, often included in hotel rates or charged separately upon check-in.
- New Zealand – International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy of NZD $100 per person.
- USA – Various occupancy taxes apply in different states. Houston has the highest at 17%.
* This AI-assisted list of tourist taxes worldwide is accurate as of early March 2025, though policies may change over time.
Why Are More Countries Introducing Tourist Taxes?
Tourist taxes are increasingly common worldwide as destinations grapple with overtourism, infrastructure strain, and environmental concerns. Governments argue that these fees help fund public services, maintain historical sites, and improve sustainability efforts.
While Thailand’s $8.76 fee may seem minor, it aligns with a broader trend of countries charging visitors to support tourism management. For travelers, this means checking entry requirements before booking a trip and factoring tourist taxes into travel budgets.
Would a small tourist tax influence your decision to visit a country? Let us know your thoughts.
