Thailand Reduces Visa-Free Stay to 30 Days

Thailand Reduces Visa-Free Stay to 30 Days to Prevent Abuse

​Thailand plans to reduce its visa-free stay period from 60 days to 30 days to address the misuse of visa exemptions for illegal business activities. This decision, led by the Tourism and Sports Ministry, follows discussions with various stakeholders, including the Foreign Ministry, which acknowledged the issue.

Since July 2024, travelers from 93 countries have been allowed to enter Thailand without a visa for up to 60 days, an increase from the previous allowance for 57 countries. However, tourism operators have raised concerns, noting that most long-haul tourists typically stay between 14 to 21 days, while short-haul visitors average about one week. The extended visa-free period has reportedly led to illegal work and business activities by foreigners, with some engaging in unauthorized operations, including the illegal rental of condominiums. 

In response, the Thai government plans to enforce the Tourism Business and Tourist Guide Act more rigorously. A special joint operational center, involving six agencies such as the Tourism Department and Tourist Police, is actively investigating illegal activities in popular tourist destinations like Phuket, Chiang Mai, Pattaya, Hua Hin, Koh Samui, and Bangkok. In 2024, licenses of 40 tourism companies were revoked for misconduct, including unauthorized alterations of company directorships or shareholding structures.

By shortening the visa-free stay duration, Thailand aims to deter illegal business operations while maintaining its appeal as a premier tourist destination. Further discussions are ongoing before the official announcement of the policy change.