Thailand proposes new 1,000 baht departure tax for air travelers

Thailand’s Finance Ministry has introduced a draft Departure Tax Act that proposes a 1,000 baht fee for all travelers leaving the country by air. Unlike previous legislation from 1983, which targeted specific nationalities, the new proposal would apply to both Thai and foreign nationals. The draft is currently undergoing public consultation until October 29, 2026.

Under the proposed law, airlines or ticket agents would collect the tax alongside the flight fare. While the initial rate is set at 1,000 baht, ministerial regulations could later increase this amount up to a statutory ceiling of 5,000 baht per departure. Land and sea departures are initially excluded from the plan. Exemptions are expected for children under two, transit passengers remaining in secure areas, and certain high-ranking officials and members of the royal family.

The proposal comes alongside existing and planned fees. Travelers already pay a passenger service charge of 1,120 baht at major airports. Additionally, the government is considering a 450 baht entry fee for foreigners arriving by air, potentially starting in 2027. The Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA) has noted that the combination of these fees could result in total additional costs of approximately 2,570 baht per foreign traveler.