Thailand to reduce visa-free stay for foreign tourists to 30 days

Thailand is set to cut the maximum duration of visa-free stays for foreign tourists from 60 days to 30 days as part of efforts to curb illegal business activities, Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong said. The decision, which has been agreed upon in principle by multiple ministries, is expected to impact passport holders from 93 countries who were previously allowed to stay in Thailand for up to two months without a visa.

According to Bloomberg, the move follows concerns raised by the Association of Thai Travel Agents regarding the rise in foreigners engaging in unauthorized work and businesses. Additionally, the Thai Hotels Association has linked the extended visa-free period to an increase in illegal condominium rentals to foreign visitors, as reported by the Bangkok Post.

Tourism plays a crucial role in Thailand’s economy, which is the second-largest in Southeast Asia. The government aims to attract over 40 million foreign visitors in 2024, surpassing the record set in 2019. As of March 9, Thailand has welcomed 7.66 million international travelers, marking a 4.4% year-on-year increase.


The new regulation is expected to impact long-term travelers and digital nomads who often take advantage of visa-free stays to work remotely. Businesses catering to long-term visitors, including co-working spaces and rental services, may also experience changes in customer demographics.

Authorities are expected to announce the implementation date of the revised visa-free stay policy soon, with further details on possible exemptions or transitional measures for affected travelers.