Thailand launches Tourism and Sports Year 2025 and eVisa for all

2025 has been declared Thailand’s Grand Tourism & Sports Year, an ambitious campaign unveiled by Thailand’s Tourism authorities. This initiative aims to strengthen Thailand’s position as a world-renowned tourism hub and boost its economy, which faced challenges in recent years.

The campaign sets an impressive target of 40 million international tourists in 2025, which the  Minister of Tourism and Sports, Sarawong Thiengthong says “will drive Thailand’s tourism sector forward.”

Can Thailand achieve 40 million visitors?

While the target is ambitious, it’s well within reach for a destination as globally beloved as Thailand. Known for its world-class cuisine and culture, Thailand continues to be a top choice for travellers worldwide.

In 2024, the kingdom welcomed 35 million tourists, generating 2.6 trillion baht in revenue (approximately $75 billion USD). The upward trend gives the country strong momentum to hit its 2025 goals.

Thailand aims to achieve its vision with five key pillars: high-value tourism, market diversification, enhanced travel experiences, soft power promotion and sustainable travel. 

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Game-changer: eVisa for all travelers

Central to achieving the ambitious tourism goals is Thailand’s introduction of a universal eVisa system starting January 1, 2025. This was previously available to select nationalities. Now, visitors from countries including Nigeria, can apply for their Thailand visas online without visiting embassies or consulates.

The process is straightforward:

1. Visit the official Thailand eVisa portal.
2. Create an account.
3. Fill out the application form.
4. Upload the required documents.
5. Pay the visa fee.
6. Receive your eVisa within five working days, though delays may occur in rare cases.