Thailand is set to shorten its visa-free stay period for foreign tourists from 60 days to 30 days in an effort to tackle the growing issue of foreigners engaging in illegal business activities. The decision, approved by multiple ministries, aims to balance Thailand's efforts to boost tourism while preventing misuse of its visa policies.
The move follows concerns raised by the Association of Thai Travel Agents and the Thai Hotels Association regarding a rise in foreigners using extended visa-free stays to operate illegal businesses, including unregulated condominium rentals to foreign guests. A report by an English-language daily newspaper published in Bangkok highlighted that the 60-day visa-free period, implemented in July 2024, contributed to this trend.
From July 2024, Thailand allowed passport holders from 93 countries to stay for 60 days for tourism purposes. However, with this revision, the stay period will be reduced to 30 days.
India continues to be a significant source of tourists for Thailand. In December 2024, the Royal Thai Embassy in New Delhi announced the implementation of Thailand's Electronic Visa (E-Visa) across India, effective January 2025. Despite the upcoming reduction in visa-free stay for most countries, the 60-day visa exemption for Indian passport holders might remain in effect.
In 2024, India became Thailand's third-largest source of tourists, with a record 2.1 million Indian visitors—a 30 per cent increase compared to 2023, surpassing pre-pandemic levels. The visa-free policy has been a major factor contributing to the surge in the number of Indian tourists to Thailand.
Tourism remains a key driver of Thailand's economy, with the government aiming to attract a record 40 million tourists in 2024. Between January and 9 March 2025, Thailand welcomed 7.66 million foreign tourists, reflecting a 4.4 per cent year-on-year increase.
(With inputs from multiple news reports)
