Thailand Plans New Visa Restrictions Amid Concerns Over Illegal Activities

The Thai government is preparing to reduce the visa-free stay period for tourists from 93 countries from 60 days to 30 days as authorities move to tighten immigration controls and address concerns over criminal activity linked to extended stays.

Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkaeow said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs would submit the proposal to the Cabinet for approval, although no official implementation date has yet been announced. The current 60-day visa-free arrangement was introduced in July 2024 to help revive Thailand’s tourism industry after the COVID-19 pandemic.

Authorities say the proposed changes are aimed at preventing misuse of tourist visas, including illegal business operations, unauthorized work, cybercrime, and other unlawful activities allegedly involving some foreign nationals. Thai officials also indicated that other visa categories, including long-term residency and student visas, may face stricter scrutiny.

Thailand remains heavily dependent on tourism, which is one of the country’s key economic drivers. According to official figures, the country recorded about 12.4 million foreign visitors between January and May 2026, representing a slight decline compared to the same period last year. Before the pandemic, Thailand welcomed nearly 40 million tourists in 2019.

The proposed reduction is expected to affect travelers from countries including India, the United Kingdom, the United States, China, and several European nations currently eligible for visa-free entry. Travelers intending to stay longer than 30 days may need to apply for visa extensions or alternative visa categories if the policy takes effect.

Thai officials have insisted that the country is not abandoning its visa-free tourism policy entirely but is instead seeking a balance between promoting tourism and maintaining security and regulatory oversight.