Thailand Joins Indonesia, Vietnam, Malaysia, Kazakhstan and Others in Tightening Visa-Free Policies, Reducing Stay from Sixty to Thirty Days to Prevent Overstay Abuse Without Impacting Travel and Tourism : Here’s What Travelers Need to Know Now

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Thailand Joins Indonesia, Vietnam, Malaysia, Kazakhstan and Others in Tightening Visa-Free Policies, Reducing Stay from Sixty to Thirty Days to Prevent Overstay Abuse.

Tourists planning their next trip to Thailand may soon have to adjust their expectations regarding visa-free stays. The Thai government is moving toward a proposal that would reduce the visa exemption period from 60 days to just 30 days for nationals of 93 countries. The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sihasak Phuangketkeow, confirmed that this proposal will be submitted to the government in the near future.

At a press briefing on March 20, 2026, the Minister shared details of the upcoming change, which is designed to better align with the actual travel behaviours of most visitors. The 60-day visa exemption policy, introduced in July 2024, has been praised for boosting tourism. However, as travel patterns have evolved, the Thai government believes it’s time to reconsider the policy and adjust it accordingly.

A Shift in Policy Based on Travel Trends

The Thai government’s decision is based on an analysis of the typical stay durations of tourists. Authorities have observed that most tourists only stay for around 30 days, which they deem sufficient for their travel needs. By reducing the visa-free stay period to 30 days, the government aims to make the system more consistent with actual tourism patterns, while also curbing potential misuse of the visa exemption.

Travelers who wish to stay longer than 30 days will still have the option to extend their stay by another 30 days, which would bring the maximum duration to 60 days—still a generous amount of time for most tourists.

This change aims to address concerns over non-tourist activities being conducted under the current visa exemption system. While tourism in Thailand remains robust, there have been rising concerns that the 60-day period has allowed some visitors to extend their stay indefinitely or engage in activities beyond the scope of tourism.

Addressing Concerns Over Visa Exemptions

Authorities have expressed concerns about certain abuses of the current visa exemption regime. In particular, there have been reports of foreign nationals entering Thailand for non-tourist purposes, such as starting businesses in sectors that are meant to be reserved for Thai nationals or acquiring real estate through nominee arrangements. This has raised alarms, particularly in popular destinations such as Phuket, where the tourism industry is a significant part of the local economy.

In addition to this, the government has cited findings from recent operations targeting online scam networks, where individuals arrested for fraudulent activities had entered Thailand under the visa exemption scheme. This has further highlighted the need for regulatory changes to prevent misuse and ensure that the visa exemption policy continues to serve its intended purpose—facilitating tourism.

Tourism Remains a Priority: Flexibility and Extensions Still Available

While the reduction in the visa-free stay period may seem like a step towards tighter restrictions, authorities have emphasised that the goal is not to diminish Thailand’s appeal as a tourist destination. In fact, the government has clarified that tourists who wish to remain in Thailand for more than 30 days will still be able to apply for a 30-day extension. This means that visitors will still have the flexibility to stay in the country for up to 60 days, as long as they follow the proper procedures.

Tourists planning to visit Thailand in the future can rest assured that the country remains committed to maintaining its position as one of the most attractive travel destinations in Asia. The proposed change to the visa exemption period is not intended to limit tourism but to regulate longer stays more effectively, ensuring that tourists continue to visit Thailand for the right reasons.

Impact on Tourism Destinations

As one of Southeast Asia’s most popular tourist hubs, Thailand offers a wealth of attractions that draw millions of visitors each year. From the vibrant city life of Bangkok to the tranquil beaches of Phuket, Koh Samui, and Krabi, tourists flock to the Kingdom for a wide range of experiences. Whether it’s exploring the temples of Chiang Mai, sampling street food in Bangkok, or relaxing on the pristine islands, Thailand has something for everyone.

Despite the proposed reduction in the visa-free stay period, the country’s tourism sector is expected to remain strong. With over 93 countries eligible for visa-free entry, Thailand continues to be an accessible and attractive destination for travellers worldwide. However, this change may encourage some visitors to plan shorter trips or make arrangements for visa extensions if they wish to stay longer.

What’s Next for the Proposal?

At this stage, the proposal to reduce the visa-free stay period from 60 days to 30 days is still in the planning phase and has yet to be approved by the Thai government. While the minister has confirmed that the proposal will soon be submitted for consideration, there has been no official timeline for when the policy change may be enacted.

For now, travelers planning to visit Thailand in the near future can continue to benefit from the existing 60-day visa exemption, but it is advisable to stay informed about the potential changes. If the proposal is approved, it’s likely that the changes will be implemented gradually, with sufficient time for travelers to adjust their plans.

Conclusion: Planning Your Trip to Thailand

As Thailand moves to reduce the visa-free stay period for foreign nationals, potential visitors need to stay up to date on the latest regulations. While the proposal to shorten the exemption period may seem significant, it does not mark a drastic change in Thailand’s overall tourism strategy. The government remains committed to attracting tourists and providing flexible options for those wishing to stay longer.

If you’re planning to explore Thailand, whether it’s the lively streets of Bangkok or the idyllic beaches of Phuket, make sure to keep an eye on the latest travel updates. With beautiful destinations and an abundance of experiences awaiting you, Thailand remains a top destination for travellers worldwide.