Thailand & Kazakhstan Introduce Visa-Free Travel to Drive Tourism Growth – New Agreement Set to Boost Tourist Arrivals

In a significant move to enhance tourism, Thailand and Kazakhstan have reached a visa-free travel agreement, allowing their citizens to visit each other’s countries without a visa for up to 30 days per visit, with a maximum of 90 days within any 180-day period. Approved by Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s cabinet on April 18, the agreement was signed during the visit of Kazakhstan’s Foreign Minister Murat Nurtleu to Bangkok on April 23, 2024, and will take effect 30 days after internal procedures are completed.

This initiative is part of Thailand’s broader strategy to attract more tourists, complementing existing measures such as the temporary visa waiver programme, which has significantly increased Kazakhstani tourist visits. During the first quarter of 2024, Thailand welcomed about 9.4 million tourists, with China, Malaysia, and Russia leading the influx. The Thai government is optimistic about reaching its goal of 35 to 40 million foreign visitors by year-end, generating substantial revenue. This visa-free policy, alongside the appeal of destinations like Bangkok resort the likes of Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort, positions Thailand as a prime location for international tourism.