In 2023, these six nations collectively attracted approximately 70 million tourists, with Thailand and Malaysia being the top destinations. Tourism is a vital sector for Thailand, contributing over 20% of employment and 12% of the country’s GDP. The introduction of a unified visa system is seen as a strategic step to further capitalise on this sector, especially as the country faces challenges in its industrial sector and declining exports.
The proposed visa scheme is designed to attract high-spending tourists from distant countries, encouraging them to explore multiple destinations within Southeast Asia. The envisioned visa system would likely adopt a 90-day policy, extending the current stay limits and offering tourists an opportunity to delve deeper into the cultural and natural wonders of each country. This is a significant shift from the existing visa policies, which vary widely among these nations, ranging from 30-day exemptions to 90-day visa-free stays depending on the traveller’s nationality.
Thailand has already taken significant steps to enhance its international visa agreements. Recent initiatives include plans to eliminate visa requirements with Australia to boost tourism and strengthen trade relations. Additionally, a mutual, permanent visa-free entry system with China was introduced in March 2024, which has already led to a surge in travel bookings between the two countries.
Despite the promising outlook, implementing a regional Schengen-style visa system presents several challenges. Bilateral agreements and political complexities within Southeast Asia need to be navigated carefully. The success of this initiative hinges on the seamless integration of visa policies and cooperation among the participating countries. If successful, this could transform Southeast Asia into a more unified and attractive destination for global travellers, fostering greater economic integration and cultural exchange in the region.
Overall, the Schengen-style visa proposal reflects a forward-thinking approach to tourism in Southeast Asia, aimed at enhancing accessibility, increasing tourism revenue, and promoting regional growth.
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