Key points
- Thailand plans to reduce visa-free stays from 60 to 30 days
- The change would affect visitors from 93 countries currently eligible for 60-day stays
- The government says the move aims to prevent criminal activity
- Travelers who want to stay longer can apply for an extension
The government says the change aims to prevent loopholes exploited by foreign criminals
Thailand is planning to reduce visa-free stays from 60 to 30 days for visitors from 93 countries. A new committee set up by the prime minister is expected to approve the change, Bangkok Post reported.
The Tourism and Sports Ministry said it agreed in principle to the reduction to prevent loopholes that could be exploited by foreign criminals or individuals intending to commit illegal activities in the country.
Permanent tourism and sports secretary Natthriya Thaweevong said:
“This change should not impact tourism, as foreign tourists on average stay in Thailand for 21 days at most. If they want to stay longer than 30 days, they can simply apply for an extension as normal.”
Why Thailand is making the change
The 60-day visa-free scheme for visitors from 93 countries began in mid-2024. Tourism operators have been pushing for the reduction since last year, seeking to curb foreign criminal activity and promote a safer image for the industry.
The ministry said it provided supporting research to the committee reviewing visa measures.
Caretaker government to approve
Thaweevong noted that the caretaker government has the authority to approve the policy change, as the new government has not yet been formed.
