India Waives 30-Day Double-Entry E-Tourist Visa Fees for Thais

India Introduces Visa Fee Waiver

India has announced a visa fee waiver for Thai citizens applying for 30-day double-entry e-tourist visas, a strategic move to stimulate tourism from Thailand. This exemption will be in place until 31 December 2027.

The initiative specifically targets electronic tourist visas, allowing Thai nationals to undertake two visits to India within a 30-day timeframe without incurring the usual application costs.

This policy adjustment highlights India's focused efforts to enhance its appeal as a travel destination for visitors from Southeast Asia, particularly after recent fluctuations in visitor numbers.

Application Process and Growing Ties

Thai travellers intending to benefit from the fee waiver must still complete their application through the Indian government's official e-visa portal. It is a mandatory requirement to secure the visa before beginning any travel to India. This development unfolds amidst a period of strengthening tourism ties between Thailand and India, as reported by India's NDTV news site.

Both nations have observed consistent growth in reciprocal visitor exchanges, making such policy changes relevant for both leisure and business travel segments seeking to capitalise on easier access.

Visitor Statistics and Air Connectivity

Official Indian tourism data indicates that Thailand was among India's top 15 sources for international tourists in 2024. During that year, 140,489 Thai nationals travelled to India, accounting for 1.41% of all foreign tourist arrivals.

While 2025 recorded a slight downturn, with approximately 130,000 Thai tourists visiting India — a 7% decrease from the previous year, according to the Indian Embassy in Bangkok — the broader trend suggests significant engagement.

Air travel infrastructure also supports this relationship, with Thailand directly connected to over 15 Indian cities via more than 500 weekly flights, subject to seasonal schedules.

Implications for Thai Travellers and Regional Tourism

The abolition of visa fees is expected to render travel to India more accessible and financially attractive for Thai visitors. This measure is designed to further boost tourism flows and fortify the wider cultural and people-to-people connections between these two Asian countries.

For Thai travellers, the initiative presents a direct financial incentive, likely leading to increased demand for flights and accommodation across India. The policy demonstrates a targeted strategy by India to recover and expand its tourism market within key Asian regions, responding to recent changes in visitor statistics.