southeast Asian Nations Explore Schengen-Style Visa Program to Boost Tourism

Posted on 2024-04-09 14:38:02 UTC by Musafirmediahub

Thailand, alongside Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, and Vietnam, collectively hosted approximately 70 million tourists last year, setting the stage for an anticipated tourism surge in the coming years. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin of Thailand is spearheading an initiative to establish a Schengen-type visa program encompassing these six neighboring countries in Southeast Asia. This visionary move aims to facilitate seamless mobility for travelers across borders, attracting a greater influx of long-haul and high-spending tourists. According to a Bloomberg report, Srettha has engaged in discussions with regional counterparts, receiving predominantly positive responses to the concept of a single visa. Marisa Sukosol Nunbhakdi, former president of the Thai Hotels Association, highlighted that the extension of visa validity to 90 days, from the standard 30-day period, would enhance the attractiveness of the initiative, potentially encouraging more travelers to explore the region. Bill Barnett, managing director of hospitality and property consultancy C9 Hotelworks, emphasized that if executed effectively, the benefits of visa-free travel would extend beyond tourism, positively impacting business travelers and trade. While the single visa initiative represents the pinnacle of Srettha's tourism agenda, it is envisioned as a long-term endeavor. In 2023, the six Southeast Asian nations collectively welcomed 70 million foreign tourists, with Thailand and Malaysia leading the tally, generating around $48 billion in tourism revenue, according to official data.