The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has confirmed the country’s current visa exemption provision has been extended from 30 to 60 days, with an option for visitors to extend it for a further 30 days.

It has also expanded the scheme to nationals from a further 36 countries, meaning it is now available to travellers from 93 countries. The UK and Ireland were among the original 57 countries on the list.

"Thailand is such a diverse country with so much to explore," said TAT director Sadudee Sangnil. "The option to stay for up to three months provides an opportunity for visitors to travel at a more leisurely pace, and to see and experience more,” 

Sangnil said expanding the visa scheme was an opportunity for agents to promote new regions, cities, resorts and itineraries to their clients, and open up new markets, and stressed TAT would support agents with updates to inspire their clients.

"The over-50s traveller continues to be the strongest market," she continued. "This new visa option is ideal for retirees looking to travel for longer, particularly over the winter months where they can stay in Thailand where it is warm and offers excellent value for money.

"This is a great sales opportunity for agents, to sell longer trips filled with more experiences and tours."

Last year, Kew Bridge Travel became the Pacific Asia Travel Association UK and Ireland chapter’s first-ever travel agent committee member. Founder John Coles welcomed the development, telling TTG is was a "very smart move" by he destination.

"Any visa requirement is a disincentive to a person travelling as it’s an additional cost and a hassle to understand the rules,” he said. “Extending the visa-free exemption is a very smart move as it encourages people to stay longer in the country, see more of the country and even work remotely from that country.

“In this digital nomad era, it’s smart to encourage that."

Authorities in Thailand have also increased the number of countries whose nationals can apply for a visa on arrival from 19 to 31, and created a new visa for digital nomads, remote workers and freelancers.

Destination Thailand visas last for 180 days over a five-year period and are valid for multiple entrances. They can also be extended for another six months.

Applicants must be able to provide proof of funding or a guarantee of no less than 500,000 Thai baht (£11,000) for the duration of their stay, with the visa costing around 10,000 baht (£220).