Paul Crosio Partner @ Silk Legal | Notary Public and Practicing Lawyer
In recent years, an increasing number of countries have begun implementing Electronic Travel Authorizations (ETA) for visa-exempt travelers. Thailand is the latest nation to announce plans for a mandatory ETA system, affecting citizens from 93 countries, including Uk, Australia and USA. This move is part of a broader trend as countries aim to enhance security, raise revenue and manage tourist inflow. An ETA is a digital pre-screening process that allows travelers to obtain permission to enter a foreign country without the need for a traditional visa. ETAs are typically easier and quicker to obtain than visas, which often require extensive paperwork and in-person visits to processing centers. Applicants for ETAs can generally submit their requests online, with approvals often granted within hours or even minutes. Countries such as Australia, Canada, and the United States have long utilized ETA systems, with the U.S. version known as the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). In addition to Thailand, upcoming ETA implementations include the United Kingdom, which will require ETAs from non-European nationals starting January 8, 2025, and from European nationals beginning April 2, 2025. Japan is also set to introduce its ETA, while the European Union is developing the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS). Why an ETA system? The reasons for implementing ETAs are varied. Primarily, they enhance national security by allowing governments to screen applicants for prior visa violations, criminal history, and other checks such as tax status. A visa-free arrangement does not guarantee the character of every traveler from a given country. Additionally, ETAs provide a mechanism for governments to collect fees from travelers, which can be a significant revenue source. For example, Australia charges THB500 (approximately) for its ETA, while the U.S. and the UK charge THB700 and THB450 (approximately ), respectively. As countries increasingly adopt ETAs, travelers may face a shift toward more structured and planned travel experiences, potentially reducing the spontaneity of international trips. Also, travelers spending extended periods in Thailand may be identified for visa violations and tax liability negating the former practice of visa runs and undeclared work. Thailand likely planned its upcoming ETA to simplify processing the proposed tourism tax of THB300 per traveler but it would also be logical to use this process to implement the new residency tax requirements as well as cut down on visa violations. A trial of the system is schedule for the end of this year and full implementation in 2025.