Thailand has approved a new policy to shorten visa-free stays for tourists from more than 90 countries as part of efforts to address rising concerns over crimes involving foreign nationals.
The decision was approved by the country’s cabinet on Tuesday, according to Tourism Minister Surasak Phancharoenworakul, who briefed reporters in Bangkok.
Under the existing system, travellers from over 90 countries — including the United States, Israel, European nations, and the Schengen area — can stay in Thailand visa-free for up to 60 days.
However, under the revised plan, visa-free stay durations will be adjusted on a country-by-country basis. Most visitors are expected to be granted stays of up to 30 days, while some may be limited to 15 days, the minister said.
Officials stated that the move comes in response to a rise in criminal incidents involving foreign nationals, including cases related to drug offences, illegal business operations, and trafficking activities.
Previously, Thailand had extended its visa-free stay period from 30 to 60 days in July 2024 to support tourism recovery and economic growth. The latest reversal signals a more cautious approach to visitor regulation.
Tourism remains a key pillar of Thailand’s economy, contributing more than 10% to GDP, although visitor numbers have not yet fully returned to pre-pandemic levels.
Data from the tourism ministry shows a slight decline in foreign arrivals in the first quarter of this year compared to the previous year, with notable drops from Middle Eastern markets.
Despite the policy change, Thailand is still projecting around 33.5 million international arrivals this year, slightly above last year’s figures.
