Thailand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has yet to finalize a decision on shortening the visa-free period for foreign tourists from 60 days to 30 days, with discussions ongoing. Ministry spokesperson Nikorndej Balankura assured that no new regulations are in place, and tourists are not affected by the potential change at this time.
The deliberation stems from concerns about balancing Thailand’s appeal as a tourist destination with issues related to security and the potential for illegal activities among foreign visitors. Since July 2024, nationals from 93 countries have been allowed to enter Thailand without a visa for up to 60 days, with the possibility of extending their stay up to 90 days.
This extended visa-free period was initially introduced to stimulate tourism, encouraging visitors to immerse themselves in Thai culture and spend more time contributing to the local economy. However, there have been growing concerns that some foreigners may be using the visa exemption to engage in unauthorized work or business activities.
Industry groups, such as the Thai Travel Agents Association, note that the majority of tourists typically stay for 21 days or fewer, suggesting that a reduction in the visa-free period may not significantly impact the average traveler.
As the government continues to weigh the pros and cons of the change, Balankura emphasized the importance of aligning tourist policies with national safety concerns. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is reviewing feedback from various agencies, and any updates will be submitted to the visa policy committee before potentially reaching the cabinet for approval.
In response to inquiries, Balankura encouraged the public to contact the Immigration Bureau or the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for more details, ensuring transparency and ongoing dialogue as the discussions unfold.
