Thailand steps up scrutiny of foreigners making back-to-back visa-free visits

Thailand’s Immigration Bureau has stepped up measures to stop foreigners who repeatedly enter the country using the visa-free scheme, often known as “visa runs,” to extend their stay without proper authorization.

Deputy Immigration Bureau chief Pol Maj Gen Choengron Rimpadee told Bangkok Post that officials would now question foreigners making a third consecutive visa-free entry. Each visa-free stay allows a maximum of 90 days, but authorities have noticed patterns of repeated long stays, including cases where individuals remained in the country for at least 45 days on previous visits.

“These foreigners do not visit Thailand for tourism. Many of them work or operate business with Thai nominees as their front. They use the visa-free scheme to avoid official visa requests before travelling, and their data is not included in Thailand’s systems controlling occupations and taxation,” he said.


According to Pol Maj Gen Choengron, some visitors have completed as many as seven consecutive visa runs, accumulating over 200 days of stay. Immigration officers will now deny such repeated entries to prevent scammers from relocating illegal operations to Thailand after fleeing crackdowns in neighbouring countries.

He also noted that false claims were being circulated, suggesting that the immigration crackdown targets specific nationalities such as Chinese visitors. “The measures are applied fairly to all nationalities and do not affect genuine tourists,” he said.

The deputy chief emphasized that real tourists typically stay about 15 days per visit and can provide clear information about their accommodation, travel plans, and departure dates. “Immigration police welcome real tourists,” he added.

What are the visa rules for Indians?
Indian citizens are currently eligible for visa-free entry into Thailand for short-term visits. Under the visa-exemption scheme, travellers from India can stay in Thailand for up to 60 days without obtaining a visa in advance. This facility applies to those visiting for tourism or short business trips. Travellers must carry a passport valid for at least six months, a confirmed return or onward ticket within the 60-day period, and meet standard immigration requirements on arrival.

For those planning to stay beyond the visa-exempt period, a tourist visa is required. Indians can apply for either a single-entry or multiple-entry tourist visa through the Royal Thai Embassy or Consulates in India. The Thai government is also introducing an e-Visa system for Indian nationals starting 1 January 2025, allowing online applications to simplify the process.

All visitors, including those entering under the visa-exemption scheme, must complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) online within 72 hours before their flight. Additionally, travellers may be asked to show proof of sufficient funds—typically 20,000 Thai Baht per person or 40,000 Baht per family—to confirm their ability to support themselves during their stay.

Even with visa-free access, immigration officers may question visitors to confirm the purpose of their trip, especially if they suspect non-tourist activities such as employment or business operations. Visitors should be prepared to present accommodation details, travel itineraries, and proof of departure.