Top News

Thailand is planning to shorten the visa-free stay for foreign tourists from 60 days to 30 days, according to officials quoted in reports by the Bangkok Post. The proposal comes after authorities reviewed how the current policy is being used and found that the longer stay may be creating gaps that allow misuse.

The idea is simple. Most tourists do not need two full months in the country. Officials believe a 30-day visa-free period is enough for holidays, short trips, or family visits. Travellers who want to stay longer will still be able to apply for a 30-day extension.

Why Thailand Wants to Reduce the Stay Period

The current 60-day visa-free stay was introduced to support tourism recovery and make travel easier. Tourism plays a big role in Thailand’s economy, so longer stays were seen as a way to encourage visitors to spend more time and money in the country.

However, authorities say the longer period has also created problems.

Foreign Affairs Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow said businesses in Phuket reported cases where foreigners were using tourist visas to run businesses that are normally restricted to Thai nationals. Some cases also involved property being held through local nominees.

Authorities Raise Concerns Over Misuse of Tourist Visas

Officials also flagged concerns that some individuals linked to online scam operations had entered Thailand using tourist visas. According to the review committee, the longer stay may make it easier for people to remain in the country for reasons not related to tourism.

Put simply, the government wants to keep travel easy for genuine visitors while limiting loopholes.

What the New Proposal Means for Travellers

If approved, the policy would allow eligible travellers to stay in Thailand for 30 days without a visa. Those who want more time could request an extension for another 30 days.

Key points travellers should know:

• Visa-free stay may be reduced from 60 days to 30 days
• An extension of 30 days will still be possible
• The policy is not aimed at any specific nationality
• The focus is on preventing the misuse of tourist visas

Officials also noted that some travellers were using longer visa-free periods to move between neighbouring countries while carrying out activities outside the scope of tourism.

Thailand Still Welcomes Tourists

Authorities stress that Thailand remains open to international visitors. The proposed change is about tightening rules where needed, not discouraging tourism.

For most travellers, the change is unlikely to affect trip plans. A 30-day stay is already enough for popular itineraries covering Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai, Krabi, and the islands.

The government says the goal is balance. Make travel simple for genuine tourists, while ensuring the system is not used for business activity or illegal operations.