Thailand Departure Fee: Indonesians Now Pay Rp 608,000 to Return Home
Indonesian travelers returning from Thailand will now face an additional financial burden, with the Thai government implementing a new departure fee of 608,000 Indonesian Rupiah (approximately $38.60 USD as of March 25, 2026). The fee, which went into effect February 23, 2026, applies to all outbound passengers from Thai airports.
The new charge has prompted concern among Indonesian tourists and travel agencies. Reports indicate the fee is intended to fund airport infrastructure improvements, but the timing and amount have raised questions about potential impacts on tourism. According to Kompas.com, travelers should prepare for the additional expense when planning their return journey.
While the exact mechanism for collecting the fee remains unclear, initial reports suggest it will be levied directly upon departure. The fee is separate from any existing airport taxes or airline charges. BeritaSatu.com reported the fee is an additional cost on top of existing travel expenses.
Currency exchange rates fluctuate, but as of 10:32 UTC on March 25, 2026, 1 Indonesian Rupiah equals 0.00193068 Thai Baht, according to Xe.com. Wise.com currently lists the mid-market exchange rate as Rp1 IDR = 0.001930 THB. This means the 608,000 Rupiah fee translates to roughly 1,173.52 Thai Baht.
The Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has not yet issued a formal statement regarding the new departure fee. It remains to be seen whether the Indonesian government will seek clarification from Thai authorities or negotiate for a potential exemption or reduction for Indonesian citizens.
Travel agencies in Indonesia are advising clients traveling to Thailand to factor the new fee into their budgets. The fee is expected to particularly affect budget travelers and those with tightly planned itineraries.
