Thailand is set to implement a major change to its visa rules, particularly affecting tourists from over 90 countries including citizens of the UK. As of now, travelers have enjoyed a 60-day visa-free stay since July 2024 as part of the government's initiative to boost the economy post-Covid pandemic. However, a recent government approval has reduced this stay period to 30 days due to security concerns and complications arising from the existing visa system.
This decision was announced by Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, who indicated that the revisions were necessary to align with the current economic context and national security considerations. The Foreign Ministry explained that these measures also aim to minimize the confusion that arises from several visa exemptions that had made entry procedures perplexing for visitors.
As a result of the new policy, nationals from many countries—including Australia, China, France, Germany, India, Italy, Spain, and the US—will need to apply for a visa if they wish to stay longer than the new 30-day limit. The duration may vary based on reciprocal agreements with individual countries, but many will face the new restrictions in the coming weeks.
The change in policy comes in light of increasing incidents of crime involving foreign nationals in Thailand, including drug-related offenses. Official reports indicate a clear rise in such cases, necessitating a reevaluation of the prior approach to tourism and security.
The revised visa clauses are expected to take effect 15 days after publication in the Royal Gazette, where government legal notices are documented. This reform is seen as pivotal for Thailand, which relies heavily on tourism—a sector that has endured significant challenges throughout recent years. In 2019, Thailand welcomed nearly 40 million visitors, a record that plummeted during the pandemic but has shown signs of recovery with nearly 12 million tourists recorded so far this year.
