Thailand Revises Visa-Free Stay Duration for Tourists
Thailand is significantly reducing the length of visa-free stays for tourists from over 90 countries as part of efforts to address crimes involving foreign nationals, officials announced on Tuesday.
Tourism plays a crucial role in the economy of the Southeast Asian nation, yet the number of foreign visitors has not returned to pre-Covid levels.
Recently, there have been several high-profile arrests of foreigners linked to drug offenses, sex trafficking, and operating businesses such as hotels and schools without proper permits.
Current and New Visa Policies
Under the existing tourism scheme, travelers from more than 90 countries—including the United States, the United Kingdom, the 29-nation Schengen area in Europe, and Australia—are allowed to visit Thailand for up to 60 days without a visa.
On Tuesday, Thailand's cabinet approved a reduction in the visa-free stay duration for travelers from these countries.
The new visa-free period will be determined on a country-by-country basis. Most foreign nationals will be granted stays of up to 30 days, while some may receive only 15 days, according to Tourism Minister Surasak Phancharoenworakul.
A government spokesperson informed Agence France-Presse that tourists will have the option to renew their visas once by visiting an immigration office.
“The 60 days was automatic but the renewal will be decided by the officer and tourists will have to explain why they are staying longer,”
she said.
Government's Position on Crime and Visa Abuse
Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow stated last week that the plan to reduce visa-free stays is part of a crackdown on transnational crime.
He emphasized that the policy is not targeting any specific country but rather individuals who abuse the visa system by committing crimes within Thailand.
A government spokesperson told reporters on Tuesday,
“Tourists provided ‘benefits, such as boosting the economy, but the current scheme has allowed some people to exploit it.’”
Background and Economic Impact
Previously, the visa-free period was capped at 30 days but was extended to 60 days in July 2024 as part of government efforts to stimulate tourism and the economy.
Tourism contributes more than 10% to Thailand’s GDP, although visitor numbers remain below pre-pandemic figures.
According to government data, foreign arrivals decreased by approximately 3.4% in the first quarter of this year compared to the same period in 2025, with visitors from the Middle East declining by nearly one-third.
The government expects about 33.5 million foreign tourists in 2026, an increase from nearly 33 million visitors last year.
