The Thai Government will allow extended stays for tourists, up to 9 months with a “Special Tourist Visa” 

Starting in October, the Thai Government will allow extended stays for tourists, up to 9 months with a “Special Tourist Visa” 

Special Tourist Visa (STV) will allow tourists to enter Thailand, starting in October, in order to assist the tourism sector. Due to the covid-19 pandemic, many countries and industries have been affected. With Thailand being a popular tourist destination, the impact has been huge. The government has announced that they will allow long-stay tourists to enter the country starting in October, 2020. This means that tourists that qualify for the STV must comply with the Thai Public Health measures for quarantine, and show evidence/proof of stay. For foreigners returning to Thailand, they must show proof of residence, such as a purchased condominium or lease agreement. The visas will cost 2,000 baht, which last for 90 days. The Immigration Office will allow the visas to be extended twice, which is equivalent to 9 months in total. The exact date for October has not been announced yet. 

For those looking to visit Thailand for a short-term or long-term stay, contact the Thai Embassy in your country for more information, to make sure you follow the proper guidelines required to enter and stay in Thailand. 

Although the number of local infections has remained low in Thailand, due to risk of transmission from travelers overseas, it’s important to practice proper hygiene to protect yourself and others from COVID-19. Following proper procedures, and checking travel restrictions will help us, as a community, to prevent the further spread of the virus.