Thailand has approved a new plan to reduce visa-free stay periods for Tourists from more than 90 countries. The move is part of broader efforts to control crimes involving foreign nationals and improve security monitoring.
The decision was approved by Thailand’s cabinet on Tuesday. Tourism Minister Surasak Phancharoenworakul confirmed the development while speaking to reporters in Bangkok.
Under the current policy, Tourists from over 90 countries can stay in Thailand for up to 60 days without a visa. This includes travelers from the United States, Israel, South American nations, and countries within Europe’s Schengen area.
However, the government has now decided to revise the policy. The updated visa-free stay period will be decided separately for each country.
According to officials, most Tourists will likely be allowed to stay for up to 30 days. Some travelers may receive a shorter visa-free period of only 15 days.
Thai authorities said the policy change comes after an increase in cases involving foreign nationals. These incidents include arrests linked to drug-related crimes, human trafficking, and illegal business operations.
Officials also highlighted cases involving hotels and schools operating without proper legal permits. Authorities believe tighter visa controls will help reduce such activities.
Thailand had earlier increased the visa-free stay period from 30 days to 60 days in July 2024. That decision was made to support tourism and strengthen economic recovery after the pandemic.
Tourism remains a major part of Thailand’s economy. The sector contributes more than 10 percent to the country’s gross domestic product.
Despite this importance, foreign arrivals have not yet fully returned to pre-pandemic levels. Government data showed that international arrivals fell by around 3.4 percent in the first quarter of this year compared to the same period in 2025.
The decline was more noticeable among visitors from the Middle East. Arrivals from the region dropped by nearly one-third during the same period.
Thailand still expects to welcome around 33.5 million foreign Tourists this year. This would be slightly higher than the nearly 33 million visitors recorded last year.
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Economic experts believe the new visa rules could help improve oversight while maintaining tourism growth. They say balancing security and visitor convenience will remain important for Thailand’s travel sector moving forward.
