Bangkok, May 20 (V7N) — The government of Thailand has decided to reduce the maximum duration foreign tourists can stay in the country without a visa under a revised immigration framework approved by the cabinet on Tuesday (May 19).
The visa-free policy had been expanded in 2024 as part of efforts to revive Thailand’s tourism sector following the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Under the previous arrangement, citizens of 93 countries—including the United States, Israel, several South American nations, and 29 countries within Europe’s Schengen zone—were allowed to remain in Thailand for up to 60 days without a visa.
However, Thai authorities now say the facility has been misused by some visitors for unauthorized activities and long-term stays beyond tourism purposes.
A government spokesperson said the revised framework aims to strengthen oversight and prevent abuse of immigration privileges.
Under the new policy, the standard visa-free stay period will be reduced from 60 days to 30 days. Authorities also announced that nationals from certain countries may face an even shorter limit of 15 days based on crime prevention and security considerations.
The Thai government says the revised measures are intended to balance tourism growth with national security and immigration control.
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