After the downturn of 2020–2023, tourist flows from Russia to Thailand are showing steady growth. According to Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), over 185,000 Russian tourists arrived in the first two months of 2025 — 32% more than in the same period of 2024.
Revival of Russian Interest in Thailand
Thailand remains a top destination for Russians. In 2024, 980,000 Russian citizens visited — 85% of the pre-crisis 2019 level (1.15 million). Experts predict the flow could exceed 1.2 million in 2025.
Key drivers include:
- Restored charter network from 15+ Russian cities
- Stable RUB-THB exchange rate
- Increased number of direct flights
- Growing demand from digital nomads and long-stay travelers
Visa Updates: What’s New in 2025?
Despite rumors about a 6-month multi-entry visa with unlimited entries, such a visa has not been officially introduced. However, Thailand is actively simplifying entry for foreigners.
Current visa options for Russian citizens:
- e-Visa (Tourist) — up to 60 days, extendable by 30 days. Online application, 3–5 days processing.
- Multiple Entry Visa — valid for 6 months or 1 year, 60 days per stay. Fee: ~6,000 RUB.
- D-I Visa (Digital Nomad & Investor) — up to 5 years with residency, requires 500,000 THB investment or $2,500/month income.
- Visa-Free Regime (in discussion) — TAT confirms final-stage talks with Russia. Possible launch by December 2025.
Charters and Direct Flights
The 2024–2025 winter season includes 17 Russian cities: Moscow, St. Petersburg, Novosibirsk, Yekaterinburg, Krasnodar, Kazan, Barnaul, etc. Main destinations:
- Phuket (top choice)
- Bangkok
- Pattaya
Airlines: Azur Air, Red Wings, Royal Flight, Smartavia.
Why Russians Choose Thailand?
According to surveys by Rostourism and TAT, key reasons:
- Affordable prices (from $1,200 for 10-night package)
- Warm climate year-round
- High service standards
- Safety and local hospitality
- Long-stay options for digital nomads and retirees
Outlook for 2025–2026
Thailand aims for 1.5 million Russian visitors annually by 2026. Plans include:
- Launching a visa-free regime (under discussion since 2023)
- Expanding charter routes
- Promoting new destinations: Chiang Mai, Koh Samui, Hua Hin
- Developing medical and culinary tourism
Conclusion
Tourist flows from Russia to Thailand are recovering strongly. While a 6-month multi-entry visa isn’t live yet, Thailand is steadily easing entry. A visa-free regime, likely from December 2025, could be a game-changer for bilateral tourism.
Sources:
— Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), 2025
— Royal Thai Embassy in Russia
— RATA-News, Tourist Flow Report, February 2025
— TASS: "Russia and Thailand Discuss Visa-Free Regime"
— Bangkok Post: "Thailand Eyes 1.5 Million Russian Tourists by 2026"
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