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Thailand has taken a monumental step forward in cementing its status as a premier destination for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE). In a landmark announcement at the Hyatt Regency Sukhumvit Bangkok Hotel, the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB), alongside three significant organizations, unveiled the “Thailand MICE One Stop Service” initiative. This comprehensive program aims to significantly streamline the process for international MICE travellers, offering unprecedented visa benefits.

Pioneering Collaboration for Enhanced Access

The collaboration features the Department of Consular Affairs, Airports of Thailand (AOT) Public Company Limited, and Immigration Division 2. Key figures spearheaded this initiative: Mr. Worawoot Pongprapapant, Director-General of the Department of Consular Affairs; Mr. Kerati Kijmanawat, President of AOT; Pol Maj Gen Choengron Rimpadee, Commander of Immigration Division 2; and Mr. Chiruit Isarangkun Na Ayuthaya, President of TCEB.

Groundbreaking Visa Measures

Central to the initiative are the new visa measures designed to facilitate longer stays for MICE visitors and organizers:

MICE Visitor Visa: Grants a 60-day stay, extendable by 30 days.
MICE Organizer Visa: This visa provides a 90-day stay, with potential extensions allowing for a maximum stay of one year.

These measures are set to transform the landscape of MICE travel to Thailand, making it more accessible than ever before.

Expanded Visa Exemptions and E-Visa Services

Thailand has also expanded its visa exemption policy to 93 countries and territories, up from the previous 57. This change allows for stays of up to 60 days for tourism, business, or urgent work purposes. The visa-on-arrival service has been extended to 31 countries compared to the previous 19.

To further streamline the process, e-visa services are currently available at 48 Thai embassies and consulates, with plans to cover all 94 embassies and consulates worldwide by the end of the year.

Enhanced Airport Services and Technology

To improve the overall travel experience, 330 additional officers will be stationed at every airport checkpoint during peak hours. AOT has introduced a new automatic passport control system, doubling the processing rate to four persons per minute. The implementation of the Thailand Immigration System (TIS) and the Advance Passenger Processing (APPS) system ensures quicker, more accurate identification and prevents the entry of blacklisted individuals.

Moreover, the AOT application offers travellers convenient access to transport services, further enhancing their travel experience.

Special MICE Lane Services

Special lanes dedicated to MICE groups are now operational at Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang Airports in Bangkok. TCEB, in collaboration with AOT and Immigration Division 2, plans to extend these services to Phuket and Chiang Mai airports next year and to Udon Thani airport by 2026 in preparation for the International Horticultural Expo Udon Thani 2026.

Aligning with Government Policies

This joint announcement aligns with the Thai government’s strategy to position the country as a top destination for international exhibitions and global festivals. The measures are designed to attract more international attendees and visitors, boosting Thailand’s status on the global MICE stage.

TCEB President Mr Chiruit Isarangkun Na Ayuthaya emphasized, “These initiatives are not only about easing entry for MICE travellers but also about showcasing Thailand as a global hub for major events. We are prepared to welcome attendees for prestigious upcoming events, including the IDF Diabetes World Congress 2025, the IMF and World Bank Group Annual Meeting in 2026, the Global Sustainable Tourism Conference 2026, and the International Horticultural Expo 2026.”

A Vision for the Future

Thailand’s new MICE visa initiative is set to revolutionize the industry, offering unparalleled benefits to visitors and organizers. This forward-thinking approach ensures that Thailand remains at the forefront of the global MICE industry, attracting more events, conferences, and exhibitions and thereby driving economic growth and international recognition.

For more information on Thailand’s MICE One Stop Service and visa details, visit TCEB’s official website.

By enhancing visa policies and improving airport services, Thailand is opening its doors wider and setting a new benchmark in the global MICE industry. This initiative promises a seamless experience for MICE travellers, ensuring Thailand remains a preferred destination for international events.