Japan and Thailand have successively raised fees that effectively function as departure taxes on foreign tourists. Both governments said the increases are aimed at securing funds to expand infrastructure and address overtourism amid a surge in visitors.
According to Kyodo News on Monday, the Japanese government plans to triple its international tourist tax, or departure tax, from the current 1,000 yen (about 9,500 won) to 3,000 yen (about 28,500 won) starting July 1.
The international tourist tax is levied on foreign tourists and departing passengers leaving Japan. Airlines and travel agencies include it in airfare prices, collect it, and then remit it to the government. The tax revenue will be used for overtourism measures such as easing congestion at tourist destinations and preventing environmental damage.
However, transit passengers departing within 24 hours of arrival and infants under the age of two are exempt from taxation. In principle, passengers who purchase tickets before June 30 will be subject to the existing rate of 1,000 yen.
Japan is also sharply raising visa issuance fees. On June 19, the Japanese government decided to increase the fee for single-entry visas for foreigners fivefold, from the current 3,000 yen to 15,000 yen, starting in July. The multiple-entry visa fee will also rise from 6,000 yen to 30,000 yen. It is the first increase in visa fees since 1978.
"We do not expect this measure to have a significant immediate impact on the inflow of foreign tourists," Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi said at a press conference.
Thailand has also increased the burden on international passengers. Airports of Thailand (AOT) raised the international Passenger Service Charge (PSC) from the previous 730 baht (about 34,033 won) to 1,120 baht (about 52,214 won) starting June 20. The increase of 390 baht (about 18,182 won) represents a 53.4% rise from the previous level.
The PSC is a charge included in airfare and effectively resembles a departure tax in nature. It applies to international passengers using six international airports operated by AOT, including Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport and Don Mueang Airport, Chiang Mai Airport, Mae Fah Luang-Chiang Rai Airport, Phuket Airport, and Hat Yai Airport. The domestic PSC will remain at the existing 130 baht (about 6,061 won).
AOT plans to invest the funds secured from the increase in airport infrastructure expansion, security system enhancement, and the establishment of automated processing systems. The plans also include expansion projects for the south terminal and satellite terminal (SAT-1) of Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport.
