Thailand’s government has confirmed that the long-anticipated travel fee for international visitors will not be introduced in two thousand twenty-five as previously planned, but will instead be implemented in the second or third quarter of two thousand twenty-six, officials said, preserving fee-free access for visitors through next year.

The decision reflects ongoing assessment of global tourism demand and broader economic conditions as authorities seek to balance revenue goals with the need to sustain the nation’s vital travel and hospitality industry.

The proposed levy, widely referred to as the “Kha Yeap Pan Din” or “stepping onto Thai soil” fee, was sanctioned in principle by the Cabinet with charges set at three hundred baht for air arrivals and one hundred and fifty baht for those entering by land or sea.

Revenues are intended to support enhancements to tourism infrastructure, visitor insurance schemes and other services to strengthen Thailand’s competitiveness as a destination.

Officials, including the Assistant Minister for Tourism and Sports, have emphasised that the postponement will allow for further analysis of international arrival trends and finer calibration of the fee’s structure and collection mechanisms.

The delay follows observations of softer international visitor numbers than anticipated and external uncertainties affecting global travel patterns.

In the period ahead, the Ministry of Tourism and Sports and related agencies will continue preparations, including consultation with stakeholders on the operational details of the travel fee, such as whether it will be collected at the point of booking, check-in or arrival, and how digital systems can be integrated to streamline the process.

The government’s approach underscores its commitment to maintaining Thailand’s appeal to global travellers while ensuring that the policy, when enacted, contributes effectively to sustainable tourism development.

As the new timeframe for the fee’s introduction draws nearer, authorities say they will provide further guidance to industry partners and visitors on compliance and anticipated impacts on travel plans.

Until the fee’s launch, arriving travellers can continue to enjoy Thailand’s offerings without the additional levy, reinforcing the country’s position as a welcoming and accessible destination for international tourists.