Thailand plans to reduce visa-free stays to 30 days: a balance between tourism and security
24-03-25
Thailand, Southeast Asia's second-largest economy, is considering halving the visa-free stay period for tourists from certain countries, reducing the current 60-day limit to 30 days. The move, which could come into effect in the coming months, seeks to balance a boost to international tourism with growing concerns about security and illegal immigration.
Currently, visitors from 93 countries can enter Thailand without visas, many of them thanks to more relaxed policies adopted after the pandemic to stimulate economic recovery through tourism. However, this greater openness has also brought with it some unintended side effects, such as an increase in extended stays for illegal work or criminal activities.
According to Thai officials, the move to reduce visa-free stays to 30 days aims to maintain the country's attractiveness as a tourist destination, while at the same time strengthening control mechanisms over those who try to take advantage of the system. In particular, cases have been identified of foreign nationals using visa extensions to stay in the country for long periods and engage in activities not permitted by their immigration status, such as working without permission or participating in illegal networks.