Tourists are seen inside the Grand Palace, one of the favorite tourist spots in Bangkok, Thailand, May 20, 2025. Photo by Reuters
Thailand has established a committee to review its visa measures, with considerations to shorten the visa-free stays from 60 days to 30.
Natthriya Thaweevong, permanent secretary of The Tourism and Sports Ministry, said a committee established by the prime minister is reviewing visa measures, including the 60-day visa-free scheme granted to visitors from 93 countries, Bangkok Post reported.
She said the ministry had submitted research to the committee supporting the plan to halve the visa-free stay duration, insisting that it will not hurt the tourism sector.
“This change should not impact tourism, as foreign tourists stay in Thailand for 21 days on average,” Natthriya said as quoted by Bangkok Post.
“If they wish to remain longer than 30 days, they can apply for an extension as usual.”
The visa-free policy has been in force since July 2024.
Officials reported cases of foreigners misusing the privilege by working illegally or using Thailand as a transit route for crimes in neighboring countries, Khaosod English newspaper reported.
With 32.9 million international arrivals in 2025, Thailand ranked as Southeast Asia’s second most visited country after Malaysia, which received over 42 million, marking the second consecutive year the kingdom has relinquished its regional tourism crown.
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