Thailand has announced a major change to its visa‑free entry rules, reducing the permitted stay for tourists from more than 60 countries — including India, China, the US, and Schengen nations — from 60 days to 30 days starting 15 September. Bangkok says the move is aimed at curbing crime and preventing abuse of the visa system, following a series of cases involving foreign nationals.
The current visa‑free scheme allows visitors from over 90 countries to stay for up to 60 days without a visa. According to Thailand’s Foreign Ministry, the shorter stay is part of a broader tightening of immigration controls amid a crackdown on foreigners involved in drug offences, sex trafficking, and operating unlicensed businesses such as hotels and schools.
Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow said the government is targeting individuals who exploit visa‑free entry to commit crimes. The Cabinet has approved the new rule, though tourists will still be able to extend their stay once, subject to an immigration officer’s discretion.
While the stay duration is being reduced for many countries, Thailand is simultaneously increasing visa‑free stays to 90 days for visitors from Peru, Brazil, and South Korea, signalling a selective approach to tourism partnerships.
Visa‑free arrangements for around 20 other countries remain unclear, with officials declining to comment. Tourism continues to be a key pillar of Thailand’s economy, but arrivals have dipped slightly — with 20.9 million foreign tourists visiting so far this year, down 3% from the same period in 2025.