By Lin Zhuowei

(ECNS) — China and Thailand permanently exempted visa requirements for each other's citizens on March 1, right after a temporary visa waiver for Chinese visitors that commenced last September expired on Feb. 29.

The new deal is expected to facilitate tourism and economic recovery in both countries.

Under the new arrangement, Chinese passport holders are granted visa-free travel and a maximum stay of 30 days per entry in Thailand and vice versa. A total of 90 days stay is allowed in case of multiple entries within 180 days.

A booster for tourism and economic recovery

Thailand's promotion of a visa-free policy is regarded as a way to lift the tourism industry and national economy by enticing more Chinese travelers.

Maya Bay, the world-famous beach in the film "The Beach" starring Leonardo Dicaprio, is located in Phi Phi Ley, Thailand. (Photo/Agencies)