Thailand intends to shorten 93 countries' visa-free stays from 60 to 30 days.
Thailand is getting ready to reverse a tourism-friendly policy that was implemented in 2024 by reducing visa-free stays for visitors from 93 countries from 60 days to 30 days. According to officials, the action is intended to address worries about illicit labor and abuse of extended visitor stays.
According to several reports quoting Thai government sources, Thailand is getting ready to reverse its extended visa-free stay policy, lowering the allowed stay from 60 days to 30 days for visitors from 93 countries.
The proposed action is a significant reversal of the tourism-friendly policy that was implemented in the middle of 2024, when Thailand increased the duration of visa-free stays in an effort to draw in more foreign tourists and aid in the nation's tourism revival.
The extended 60-day stay, according to officials, has sparked worries about some foreign nationals abusing it by entering as tourists and participating in illicit work and business operations.
The 60-Day Visa-Free Policy in Thailand Could End Soon
According to reports, Thailand's Ministry of Foreign Affairs is getting ready to submit the request for Cabinet approval. Once authorized, visitors from nations that currently offer 60-day visa-free travel would once more be restricted to 30-day stays.
The current 60-day visa-free program is available to passport holders from 93 nations and territories, including popular travel destinations like:
India
The United States
United Kingdom
Canada
Australia
Japan
China
South Korea and EU nations
GCC countries, such as Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates
Prior to the government's July 2024 expansion, Thailand's typical visa exemption duration was a shorter 30-day stay.
Why the Rule Is Being Reversed in Thailand
The decision, according to Thai authorities, is related to growing worries about foreigners using the extended visa-free period for purposes other than travel.
Local reports state that authorities noted instances of "grey business" activities, including unlawful hiring, unregistered commercial operations, and abuse of tourist status. Reducing the stay term, according to the administration, might promote tourist arrivals while strengthening immigration monitoring.
Things Travelers Need to Know
The policy change has not yet been formally put into effect. Although Thailand has declared its intention to reinstate the 30-day limit, the idea still needs official Cabinet approval before it can be implemented.
It is recommended that travelers who want to visit Thailand later this year keep an eye out for updates from Thai embassies and immigration authorities to confirm the final regulations and the date of implementation.
For qualified travelers, the current 60-day visa-free entrance period is still in effect.
Countries Most Likely to Be Impacted
Travelers from all 93 nations now covered by Thailand's expanded visa exemption program would be affected if the amendment is granted.
Thailand continues to be one of Asia's most popular travel destinations, drawing millions of foreign visitors each. Any modifications to the country's visa laws are anticipated to have a big effect on frequent tourists, digital nomads, and long-term travelers who are planning lengthy vacations.
