Thailand's Finance Ministry favours a THB1,000 departure tax

The THB5,000 figure is a proposed legal ceiling

The headline rate came from Finance Ministry permanent secretary Lavaron Sangsnit, who said on 13 October that THB1,000 would be reasonable in current economic conditions. The ministry's preferred collection method is to add the charge to the airline ticket price, according to The Nation.

The proposal also contains a THB5,000 maximum per departure. That number describes the upper limit contemplated by the legislative framework, not the rate officials have proposed for its initial operation. If the legislation advances, the applicable amount would be set through a ministerial regulation. No such new tax has been approved.

Lavaron also suggested using revenues, through the ordinary state budget, to support domestic tourism. That is the ministry's policy argument, not a guarantee that receipts would be automatically reserved for a particular programme.

For practical context, see Thailand economy and finance. This development also connects with Thailand consults on proposed 450-baht foreign visitor fee.

Who could be charged when leaving Thailand?

Nationality would not determine liability under the principles being discussed. Thai citizens and foreign nationals, including visitors and long-term residents, would all potentially fall within the scheme. For the opening phase, however, the proposed THB1,000 rate concerns air departures; exits over land or by sea would initially be exempt.

Collection would normally take place when the flight is booked, through the airline or ticket agent. The consultation principles also contemplate exceptions for certain travellers, including qualifying transit passengers and young children. Their exact treatment will depend on the rules ultimately adopted.

Another potential charge, an entry fee for foreign tourists, is being considered separately. It has a different purpose and approval process. Travellers should not mistake the two proposals for taxes already included in today's fares.

Public comments close on 29 October

The Revenue Department's consultation began on 30 September 2026. Its official notice invites travellers, transport businesses and other interested parties to comment on the proposed departure-tax principles until 29 October. The Finance Ministry's statement on 13 October is a development within that process, not the start of collections.

The principles contemplate commencement 180 days after an enacted law is published in the Royal Gazette. Because the legislation has not been enacted or published, there is no confirmed start date. They also propose protecting tickets purchased before commencement, even if the passenger travels later. Until the final rules are settled, neither the THB1,000 charge nor those transitional protections should be treated as operative law.