Thailand Cuts Visa-Free Stay from 60 to 30 Days to Tackle Illegal Activities
The policy change, supported by multiple ministries, aims to curb misuse of visa-free stays while maintaining Thailand's appeal to tourists.
- Thailand has officially reduced the visa-free stay for tourists from 60 days to 30 days, effective immediately.
- The decision targets illegal activities such as unauthorized condominium rentals and foreign businesses exploiting legal loopholes.
- Law enforcement efforts will be intensified in tourist hubs like Phuket, Pattaya, and Koh Samui to address these issues.
- Tourism remains a key economic driver, with Thailand aiming to attract 39-40 million visitors in 2025 despite the policy change.
- Industry representatives report that most tourists typically stay 7 to 21 days, making the reduced visa-free period sufficient for the majority.