Thailand to Reduce Visa-Free Stay Duration to 30 Days
The decision reverses a policy introduced eight months ago to boost tourism, citing concerns over misuse for illegal activities.
- The reduction affects tourists from 93 countries, including Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, but an implementation date has not been announced.
- Thailand introduced the 60-day visa-free policy in July 2024 to revive its tourism sector after the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Authorities cite concerns about visitors using the extended stay for illegal business activities rather than tourism as the reason for the change.
- Tourists seeking longer stays can apply online for a 60-day tourist visa or the 'Destination Thailand Visa,' which allows up to 180-day stays with extensions.
- The 'Destination Thailand Visa' is valid for five years and costs 10,000 Thai Baht, approximately 270 Euros.