Thailand is preparing to roll back its expanded visa-free stay policy, reducing the permitted stay from 60 days back to 30 days for travellers from 93 countries, according to multiple reports citing Thai government officials.

The proposed move marks a major reversal of the tourism-friendly policy introduced in mid-2024, when Thailand doubled the visa-free stay period to attract more international visitors and support the country’s tourism recovery.

Officials now say the longer 60-day stay has raised concerns over misuse by some foreign nationals engaging in illegal work and unauthorised business activities while entering as tourists.

Thailand’s 60-Day Visa-Free Policy May Soon End

Thailand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs is reportedly preparing to submit the proposal for Cabinet approval. Once approved, travellers from countries currently enjoying 60-day visa-free access would again be limited to 30-day stays.

The existing 60-day visa-free scheme applies to passport holders from 93 countries and territories, including major tourism markets such as:

• India
• United States
• United Kingdom
• Canada
• Australia
• Japan
• China
• South Korea
• EU countries
• GCC nations, including the UAE and Saudi Arabia

The shorter 30-day stay was Thailand’s standard visa exemption period before the government expanded it in July 2024.

Why Thailand Is Reversing the Rule

Thai authorities say the decision is linked to increasing concerns over foreigners using the longer visa-free period for activities beyond tourism.

According to local reports, officials cited cases involving illegal employment, unlicensed business operations, and misuse of tourist status under what authorities described as “grey business” activities.

The government believes reducing the stay period could help tighten immigration oversight while still supporting tourism arrivals.

What Travellers Should Know

At the moment, the policy change has not yet been formally implemented. Thailand has announced plans to restore the 30-day limit, but the proposal still requires official Cabinet approval before taking effect.

Travellers planning trips to Thailand later this year are advised to monitor updates from Thai immigration authorities and embassies for confirmation of the final rules and implementation date.

For now, the current 60-day visa-free entry remains in place for eligible travellers.

Countries Likely To Be Affected

If approved, the change would impact travellers from all 93 countries currently covered under Thailand’s expanded visa exemption scheme.

Thailand remains one of Asia’s most visited destinations, welcoming millions of international tourists each year. Any visa policy changes are expected to have a significant impact on long-stay travellers, digital nomads, and frequent visitors planning extended holidays in the country.

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