Thailand news: simplified visas, lucrative investments and tax deductions in November-December 2024
Welcome to the flow of positive news from Thailand! This country, like the brightest lotus on the mirror surface of the river, continues its journey towards development and prosperity. Here you can learn about fresh developments that will warm the soul and be useful, whether you are a tourist, a resident or just someone planning a move to the land of smiles.
Pocket Visa: ETA for Russian and CIS citizens
It has become much easier for Russian and CIS citizens to get into Thailand thanks to the introduction of the ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) system. This electronic system, available on the ETA website, allows you to apply for a travel authorization to enter the country completely online, without a visit to a consulate or visa center. All that is required is to fill out a simple form, upload copies of the required documents, pay the fee and wait for approval, which in most cases comes within 24 hours.
ETA is available for short-term travel (up to 30 days) for tourist purposes. To apply, you need to provide a valid passport, an e-ticket with a return date, and proof of financial means. This innovation saves time and allows travelers to plan a trip to Thailand without hassle.
According to Thailand's Ministry of Tourism, since the launch of ETA in November 2024, the number of applications has already exceeded 100,000, which confirms the convenience and demand for this system. The innovation aims to simplify tourism and attract visitors to the Land of Smiles, and demonstrates Thailand's openness to international travelers.
More and more travelers from Russia and the CIS will be able to learn how easy it is to register on the ETA website. Now getting an entry permit to Thailand is easier than ordering a cab to the airport. To enter, all you need to do is fill out an application online and wait just a few hours for a decision.
Booming tourism: as you read this, 100 more people are flying into Thailand!
Passenger numbers at Suvarnabhumi Airport reached 4.8 million in December 2024, comparable to 2019 levels. This indicates a recovery in tourism, as well as a growing interest in Thailand as a leisure and business destination.
Investment in tourism infrastructure continues, with three new resort complexes opening in the country in the last two months alone, including a $120 million luxury hotel in Phuket. In addition, major airport and transportation network development projects, such as the extension of the Bangkok metro line, are making the country even more convenient and attractive to tourists and investors.
Taxes and tax deductions for residents
In 2024, tax returns in Thailand must be filed by March 31, including those with resident status. This applies to foreign nationals living on a long-term visa (LLV), permanent residence, or working in the country. Applications are accepted online through the official Revenue Department Thailand portal - Revenue Department Thailand.
Residents who rent real estate, receive income in Thailand or abroad are required to declare their income. Among the tax deductions available are education expenses, medical expenses, life insurance, and investments in pension funds. For example, a landlord can reduce the taxable amount for apartment maintenance expenses and working residents can reduce the taxable amount for charitable donations.
Using the online filing system saves time and allows residents to easily manage their financial obligations. For more information and to submit the form, visit the Revenue Department Thailand website.
Loy Krathong Festival: A Thai fairy tale
The Loy Kratong Festival, held in November 2024, attracted more than 500,000 participants across the country and was an unforgettable event. According to the Ministry of Tourism, more than 100,000 people attended the festival in Bangkok alone, enjoying the magical spectacle of thousands of glowing kratongs decorating rivers and canals.
Highlights included large-scale concerts, dance shows in traditional costumes and the launching of aerial lanterns that lit up the night sky. In Chiang Mai, the capital of Lanna, the celebration was accompanied by unique parades and cultural events, attracting tens of thousands of tourists from overseas.
