In a bid to boost its tourism sector, Thailand is embarking on a mission to drastically reduce tourist visa processing times from a lengthy seven working days to a mere three. This ambitious endeavour is currently underway, following the successful integration of crucial tourist information across various government agencies.
Recently, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), the Department of Consular Affairs, and the Department of Tourism inked a memorandum of understanding, solidifying their commitment to integrate visitor information for travellers heading to Thailand.
Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT’s Governor, underscored the collaborative efforts between key government agencies, with a laser focus on optimizing visa procedures, screenings, and overall travel convenience. The primary objective? To reinvigorate tourism and ensure effective visitor oversight throughout Thailand.
Notably, TAT Governor highlighted the agreement’s significance as it represents a united effort between the Department of Consular Affairs, the Department of Tourism, and TAT to create a tourist information linkage system through an advanced API.
At present, TAT is in the midst of implementing the cutting-edge VISA Pre-Scan System (VPSS) Gateway. This innovative system is poised to expedite preliminary screening and information verification for travellers intending to explore Thailand. Its most profound impact will be on the e-Visa application process, a change set to greatly benefit Chinese tourists and enhance the overall speed and efficiency of travel to Thailand. This forward-looking development is poised to stimulate tourism, attracting a higher number of Chinese visitors to choose Thailand as their preferred destination and aligning seamlessly with Thailand’s aspiration to generate revenue and drive economic recovery.
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TAT is committed to providing the Department of Tourism with detailed tourist data and travel specifics. This wealth of information will be cross-referenced with travellers’ original details, encompassing flight tickets, accommodations, and insurance particulars. This comprehensive dataset will be seamlessly shared with both the Department of Tourism and the Department of Consular Affairs through the efficient e-Visa system. The central objective of this meticulous data verification process is to reinforce tourist security, thus safeguarding the nation’s overall safety.
Ruj Thammanon, Director-General of the Department of Consular Affairs, revealed that this collaborative effort will expedite tourist visa processing, slashing the waiting period from 7 working days to a mere 2-3 working days. This monumental improvement directly benefits tourists and businesses in the tourism sector, mirroring the government’s determination to boost tourism numbers and revenue.
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As this partnership matures, it will extend its data-sharing collaboration to encompass pivotal government agencies, including the Immigration Bureau and the Tourist Police. This expansion aims to further fortify the integration of tourist information, prioritizing safety and the overall quality of the tourist experience in Thailand. The ultimate goal? To elevate Thai tourism standards, with a robust target of attracting 25-30 million tourists by year-end.
In addition, Jaturon Phakdeewanit, Director-General of the Department of Tourism, clarified his department’s role, which involves verifying information for licensed tour operators. This verification process will enhance communication with international partners designated by the Department of Consular Affairs, facilitating data links between the Job Order Information System and the VISA Pre-Scan System (VPSS) Gateway, managed by TAT. Furthermore, it interfaces with the electronic visa (e-Visa) stamping system of the Department of Consular Affairs.
Looking ahead, this collaboration will expand data linkage to key government agencies such as the Immigration Bureau and Tourist Police. This extensive integration will further streamline and enhance tourist data management, prioritizing both safety and the overall quality of the tourist experience in Thailand. The long-term vision is to elevate the standard of Thai tourism, targeting an impressive 25-30 million tourists by year-end.
Moreover, data integration will empower retrospective data checks, significantly aiding oversight efforts of relevant government agencies. This initiative aligns seamlessly with the government’s recognition of tourism’s pivotal role as a key driver of the Thai economy. Thus, ensuring system readiness and fostering confidence in security measures stand as pivotal factors in Thailand’s economic recovery through tourism.
