Thailand is set to tighten its visa-free policy, reducing the duration of stay for foreign tourists from 60 days to 30 days. This move is aimed at tackling the growing misuse of the extended stay privilege by individuals who engage in unlicensed business or employment activities while in the kingdom.

Previously introduced in July 2024, the 60-day visa-free stay was part of a broader post-pandemic recovery strategy to boost tourism. However, Thai authorities have observed a surge in cases where foreign nationals remain in the country for longer stays without proper work authorisation, disrupting fair business competition, particularly in the hospitality and real estate sectors.

As a result, the government is rolling back the visa-free window to its previous 30-day period. While the exact implementation date has not yet been finalised, officials have indicated there may be a transitional grace period for travellers with existing bookings.

Crackdown on Unauthorised Work and ‘Undercover’ Business Activity

According to Thai immigration officials, some visitors under the 60-day allowance were found offering freelance services or illegally subletting properties — all without holding valid permits. Such practices not only violate immigration and employment laws but also place undue pressure on Thai SMEs and legally operating businesses.

The Ministry of Tourism and Sports has clarified that the aim is not to deter genuine tourists but to tighten control over foreign employment rules. The reduced period for visa-free entry is seen as a necessary step to ensure sustainable tourism and uphold lawful conduct within the country’s booming travel industry.

Visitors who intend to stay longer than 30 days will now be required to apply for a valid visa — such as a Digital Nomad Visa, Retirement Visa, or Education Visa — each of which comes with stricter eligibility criteria and documentation requirements.

Digital Nomads and Retirees Encouraged to Explore Visa Alternatives

The policy shift could significantly affect digital nomads and long-term travellers who previously benefited from the 60-day visa-free privilege. According to ForwardKeys, over 7% of all bookings to Thailand in early 2024 were for stays beyond 22 nights, many by individuals working remotely or living semi-permanently in cities like Chiang Mai, Phuket, and Bangkok.

With this update, long-stay tourists will need to plan ahead and apply for suitable visas. The Digital Nomad Visa may be attractive for remote workers earning foreign income, while retirees may prefer long-term non-immigrant visas catered to older individuals.

Tourists planning short holidays of less than 30 days are unlikely to be impacted. But those aiming for extended stays must now consider added visa processing times, costs, and compliance obligations.

Tourism Sector Faces New Balancing Act

Tourism remains a pillar of Thailand’s economy, contributing nearly 20% of GDP and supporting millions of jobs in hotels, transport, food services, and entertainment. While authorities insist the visa changes are necessary to preserve economic fairness, some industry observers worry it may deter high-spending tourists and remote professionals.

Thailand is targeting 40 million foreign arrivals in 2025. As part of that goal, the government is shifting focus from quantity to quality — prioritising lawful, high-value tourism over volume-based metrics.

Travellers are urged to check for updates from the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) or Thai embassies before finalising their travel plans. Applying for the correct visa category will help avoid complications at immigration checkpoints and ensure a smooth stay.

A Regional Trend Toward Tighter Borders

Thailand’s move reflects a broader global pattern. Other countries have similarly begun reviewing visa-free access due to concerns over illegal employment, housing inflation caused by foreign renters, and over-tourism. By reinstating a 30-day cap, Thai officials aim to strike a balance between welcoming visitors and protecting local livelihoods.

In the long run, this measured approach may enhance Thailand’s reputation as a responsible, well-regulated destination, where both locals and tourists can coexist within a fair, sustainable framework.