- Thailand launches crypto payment scheme for tourists.
- Allows conversion of Bitcoin and Ethereum to Thai baht.
- Facilitates easy transactions for tourists in local markets.
Thailand’s government financial authorities and Ministry of Tourism are set to launch the TouristDigiPay crypto payment scheme on August 18, 2025, facilitating crypto-to-baht conversions for tourists nationwide.
The initiative aims to enhance tourism by providing crypto payment options, while also aligning with digital visa reforms, signaling a pivotal embrace of cryptocurrency by Thailand’s tourism sector.
Thailand’s TouristDigiPay System
Thailand’s TouristDigiPay system, launching on August 18, 2025, allows tourists to convert cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin and Ethereum to Thai baht for QR code-based payments. This initiative is part of Thailand’s tourism incentives and digital reforms.
The initiative is led by Thailand’s government financial authorities, supported by the Ministry of Tourism. The project is part of a government-managed “crypto sandbox” aimed at integrating cryptocurrency use in tourism.
Streamlining Travel with Crypto
The TouristDigiPay aims to streamline travel by allowing tourists to make local purchases with crypto. The system represents Thailand’s effort to embrace digital currency and potentially attract more crypto-using travelers.
The project impacts Bitcoin and Ethereum directly, facilitating legal crypto-to-fiat conversions. This step signifies an advancement in Thailand’s digital economy, although further impacts will be observed post-launch.
Economic Impacts and Future Prospects
The launch does not support governance tokens or other crypto assets immediately. Tourists can expect to see enhancements in overall payment convenience while the potential for increased tourist spending could bolster Thai industries.
Past examples like Dubai have shown that crypto payment systems can boost local economic activity. Thailand’s integration might encourage more countries to explore similar regulatory frameworks to capitalize on cryptocurrency users.
“All foreigners looking to travel to Thailand under the visa exemption scheme will be required to enroll in it from June 2025 onwards. … The government is implementing this and other public security measures to better track foreigners without a registered visa.”– Thailand Government Travel Portal
