Thailand is reviewing its visa-free entry scheme for tourists, with authorities considering reducing the current permitted stay from 60 days to 30 days. The proposed move comes amid growing concerns that some foreigners may be exploiting the system for non-tourism activities, including illegal work and activities linked to national security risks.
According to reports, Thailand’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Sihasak Phuangketkeow, confirmed that the government is urgently reviewing the policy during a Cabinet meeting held in Bangkok on May 12.
The minister explained that Thailand currently offers multiple visa categories, and officials believe the existing 60-day visa-free period may be too generous for genuine tourism purposes. Authorities are concerned that some visitors are entering the country under tourist privileges while engaging in activities unrelated to tourism.
Government Wants Tighter Immigration Controls
Speaking at Government House in Bangkok, Sihasak said the review had actually been planned earlier during the first administration led by Anutin Charnvirakul, but was delayed due to elections.
The Thai government now intends to proceed with the review quickly, especially after several recent incidents involving foreign nationals drew public attention. Although Chinese visitors were mentioned during discussions, the minister stressed that Thailand is not targeting citizens from any specific country.
Instead, the government says the objective is to ensure tourists comply with the original purpose of their visa conditions. Officials believe shorter tourist stays could help reduce abuse of the visa-free programme while strengthening border security and immigration enforcement.
Thailand has become one of the most popular travel destinations in Asia for international tourists, including many visitors from Singapore, due to its affordable holidays, vibrant nightlife, luxury hotels, and medical tourism sector. The current visa-free arrangements have also been viewed positively by the tourism and airline industries, which rely heavily on foreign arrivals.
Review Could Affect Long-Stay Travellers And Digital Nomads
The proposed changes may impact digital nomads, remote workers, retirees, and long-stay travellers who frequently use visa-free access to remain in Thailand for extended periods. Over the past few years, Thailand has introduced several visa schemes aimed at attracting wealthy foreigners, foreign experts, and investors as part of its economic growth and soft-power strategy.
However, Thai authorities now appear to be reassessing whether some visa categories are truly necessary or whether they overlap excessively. The government is reportedly considering consolidating or streamlining certain visa programmes.
Sihasak added that tourist visas should be granted for a period that appropriately matches tourism activities, which he suggested should likely not exceed 30 days.
The review process will involve consultations between the Cabinet Secretariat and relevant government agencies before any final decision is made. At this stage, no official implementation date has been announced.
Thailand remains one of Southeast Asia’s strongest tourism economies, and any visa policy adjustment could have a significant impact on airlines, hotels, travel insurance providers, and tourism-related businesses across the region.