The cabinet approved an edict of the Interior Ministry today (Tuesday) extending the period of stay, from 30 to 45 days, for tourists from countries and territories entitled to visa exemptions and from 15 to 30 days for those eligible for a Visa on Arrival.

The extension is, however, only temporary, from October 1^st until end of March next year, to coincide with the traditionally tourism high season in Thailand, when more tourists, especially from Europe and the US, are expected to escape the cold weather and head to Thailand.

Currently, though, most foreign arrivals in Thailand are from Malaysia and India.

The extension of stays confirms the decision of the Centre for COVID-19 Situation Administration in late August, based on the proposal of the Tourism Authority of Thailand.

The cabinet also decided to remove COVID-19 from the list of forbidden diseases among foreign visitors, making it possible for foreigners infected with COVID-19 to enter Thailand.

According to Government Spokesman Anucha Burapachaisri, about five million foreign tourists have arrived in Thailand so far this year, including about one million this month alone.

The Thai government has set a target of welcoming at least 10 million foreign arrivals this year.