Thailand to cut tourist visa-free stays from 60 to 30 days

Thailand is set to reduce tourists' visa-free stays to 30 days, down from the current 60 days.

The Thailand Tourism and Sports Ministry said that the move aims to impede the exploitation of its visa exemption scheme by illegal businesses, reported Bangkok Post.

Concerns over illegal activities

Passport holders from 93 countries are currently permitted to enter without a visa for up to 60 days for tourism purposes.

This policy has been in force since July 2024.

The adjustment aims to address concerns raised by tourism operators regarding the extended visa-free period.

Long-haul tourists typically stay between 14 to 21 days, while short-haul travellers average around seven days per trip.

The extended 60-day allowance has reportedly led to an increase in unauthorised work and illegal business operations by some visitors, reported Bangkok Post.

The Association of Thai Travel Agents highlighted a growing number of foreigners engaging in illicit activities, and the Thai Hotels Association noted a rise in illegal condominium rentals attributed partly to the longer visa-free stays.

Government response

In response to these issues, a special joint operational centre has been established to investigate such activities in key tourist destinations, including Phuket, Chiang Mai, Pattaya, Hua Hin, Koh Samui, and Bangkok.

While the reduction in visa-free stay duration has been agreed upon in principle, further details are still under discussion and will be announced and implemented formally in due course.

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