The Prime Minister of Thailand, Srettha Thavisin, has reached out to German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier during his official visit to Thailand, requesting Germany’s assistance in securing a visa-free travel agreement with the European Union. Prime Minister Thavisin made the case that by allowing Thai nationals to enter the Schengen Area without a visa, it would greatly boost tourism numbers to the region.
Thailand currently allows citizens of Germany and other Schengen Member States to enter the country visa-free for up to 30 days, and Prime Minister Thavisin emphasized the importance of reciprocity in visa-free travel arrangements. He highlighted the significant number of German tourists who visited Thailand without the need for a visa last year, demonstrating the mutual benefits of visa-free travel for both countries.
While the response of President Steinmeier to the visa-free travel request was not disclosed, a government spokesperson stressed the importance of approval from all Schengen member states in making such a decision. The process involves evaluating irregular migration risks and fulfilling certain criteria before nationals of a third country can be exempt from the visa requirement.
In addition to discussions about visa-free travel, President Steinmeier expressed Germany’s support for sustainable development initiatives in Thailand, particularly in reducing carbon emissions and promoting renewable energy projects. Business representatives accompanying President Steinmeier also expressed interest in organizing trade fairs in Thailand and supporting the country’s recycling industries.
Currently, Thailand’s passport ranks 109th on the VisaGuide Passport Index, enabling holders to enter 42 countries without a visa. However, Thai nationals still need visas for 119 countries, including the Schengen Member States, and must provide various documents when applying for a Schengen visa, including proof of accommodation, sufficient funds, and a roundtrip itinerary. The efforts to secure visa-free travel for Thai nationals continue as they advocate for ease of travel and reciprocal arrangements with their European counterparts.
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