Thailand is preparing to shorten the visa-free stay period for foreign tourists from 60 days to 30 days. The move is aimed at addressing concerns over criminal activities and misuse of visa exemptions by some visitors.
Thailand plans to tighten visa-free rules
Thailand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs is expected to seek Cabinet approval to reduce the visa-free stay duration for travellers from 93 countries. If approved, tourists who currently enjoy a 60-day visa-free stay will only be allowed to remain in the country for 30 days, per a report by NDTV.
Also Read | Covid-19 reboot? WHO warns countries to prepare for more hantavirus cases after cruise ship outbreak
The proposed measure comes less than two years after Thailand expanded visa-free access to encourage tourism and support the country’s economic recovery after the pandemic. Under the current system, visitors from eligible countries can stay for up to 60 days without a visa and may also apply for an extension.
Authorities cite misuse of tourist visas
Thai authorities said the proposed reduction is linked to concerns about people misusing tourist privileges. According to officials, some foreign nationals were found using visa-free entry for activities not permitted under tourist rules.
Thailand’s tourism and immigration officials have reportedly increased scrutiny of travellers after cases involving unauthorised work, overstays, illegal businesses, and other unlawful activities surfaced.
“Thai authorities will check visa types to ensure compliance with their intended purpose,” NDTV reported, citing official information.
Thailand's MFA to propose reducing visa-free stay for foreign tourists from 60 days to 30 days to curb transnational crime. pic.twitter.com/MYQswZu4Rk
— PR Thai Government (@prdthailand) May 12, 2026
Change likely to affect travellers from 93 countries
The proposed rule change would apply to tourists from 93 countries currently covered under Thailand’s visa exemption programme. Indian travellers are among those who presently enjoy visa-free entry into Thailand.
Earlier this year, Thailand expanded travel benefits for Indian tourists, allowing them to stay visa-free for up to 60 days, with an option to extend the stay by another 30 days.
Officials, however, believe the shorter visa-free duration will have a limited impact on tourism because most international travellers stay for much shorter periods.
Also Read | Scottish man who went to Ukraine as trainer gets over 8 years jail for working as Russian spy
No implementation date announced yet
Thailand has not yet announced when the revised visa-free policy will come into effect. The proposal still requires Cabinet approval before it can be formally implemented.
Authorities have advised travellers to follow updates issued through official government channels and Thai diplomatic missions before planning long stays in the country.
