Visa-free Scheme for Chinese and Kazakh Nationals
A visa exemption policy for Chinese and Kazakh nationals is anticipated to bring a surge of Chinese tourists to Thailand. The policy, which was announced in the Royal Gazette on September 19, allows citizens of China and Kazakhstan to stay visa-free for 30 days. The scheme will be in effect until February 29 next year.
Increased Tourist Arrival Projections
The Airports of Thailand (AOT) predicts that over 120,000 Chinese visitors will arrive at Don Mueang and Suvarnabhumi airports during the first week of the visa exemption period, starting Monday. AOT President Kerati Kijmanawat expects a significant increase in the number of incoming tourists between September 25 and October 1.
Flight and Passenger Estimates
During the first week of the visa-free policy, Suvarnabhumi Airport is expected to host 674 flights from China, averaging 96 flights per day. In addition, 130,593 Chinese visitors are projected to fill incoming and outbound flights, with 65,584 arriving while 65,009 departing.
Simultaneously, there will be six flights between Thailand and Kazakhstan from September 25 to October 1. The AOT anticipates that the number of Kazakh passengers will increase to 1,338 from 853 passengers during the week before the visa exemption.
Don Mueang Airport Projections
Don Mueang Airport is expected to have 414 flights to and from China between September 25 and October 1, equating to approximately 60 flights per day. This marks an increase from 326 flights in the previous week. The number of Chinese passengers is projected to increase to 57,549 from 43,783 the week before the visa exemption.
Tourism Boost for Thailand
From January 1 to September 17, there were 10,333 flights from China to Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang airports, with 1.6 million passengers traveling between the two countries. Since March 26, 22 Chinese and three Thai airlines have operated between the two Bangkok airports and 23 airports in China.
Government spokesman Chai Wacharonke stated that the visa-free policy, endorsed by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, is expected to yield positive results. Mr. Chai believes the policy will boost both Chinese and Kazakh tourist numbers during the five-month period, helping Thailand achieve its target of 5 million Chinese visitors for the year.
Key Takeaways
- Visa exemption policy for Chinese and Kazakh nationals in effect until February 29 next year
- Over 120,000 Chinese visitors expected to arrive during the first week of the visa-free period
- Suvarnabhumi Airport to host 674 flights from China during the first week
- Don Mueang Airport to have 414 flights to and from China during the same period
- Thailand aims to attract 5 million Chinese visitors this year
