Southeast Asian governments are increasingly exploring the feasibility of a unified visa system inspired by the European Schengen model, which would allow seamless travel across multiple countries with a single visa. Thailand, a key advocate, emphasizes that such an arrangement could significantly boost tourism, trade, and regional cooperation. The proposed framework aims to include six nations within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), fostering easier mobility for tourists, business visitors, and expatriates while reducing bureaucratic hurdles and entry delays.

Key potential benefits of the joint visa proposal include:

  • Enhanced Economic Integration: Streamlined access will promote cross-border investment and expand tourism revenue.
  • Improved Regional Security: Coordinated immigration protocols would bolster border control and data…