PUBLISHED: 17 Mar 2025 at 17:29
The Thai government is set to implement a significant change in its visa-free policy, reducing the allowed stay from 60 days to 30 days—an initiative prompted by growing concerns over illegal business activities exploiting the visa exemption scheme, according to the Tourism and Sports Ministry.
Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong confirmed that all relevant authorities recognized the urgency of this issue after extensive discussions with stakeholders.
The decision to shorten the visa-free period aims to enhance regulatory compliance and address rising illegal employment and business operations by foreigners. Specific details and official announcements regarding this regulation adjustment are expected to follow soon.
Since July 2024, Thailand has allowed travelers from 93 nations to visit for tourism without a visa for up to 60 days. Initially, this program covered only 57 countries.
However, industry representatives have expressed apprehension regarding the extended stay, suggesting that long-haul tourists typically visit for 14 to 21 days, while short-haul visitors average less than two weeks per trip.
The Association of Thai Travel Agents previously raised concerns over the visa waiver extension, alongside issues of foreigners engaging in unauthorized business activities. The Thai Hotels Association noted that this situation has contributed to a rise in illegally rented accommodations.
In response to mounting pressure from former parliamentarians advocating for stricter regulations, the ministry has directed the Tourism Department to enforce the Tourism Business and Tourist Guide Act more rigorously.
Additionally, a special task force comprising six authorities, including tourism officials and police, has been actively investigating unlawful operations in tourist hotspots like Phuket, Chiang Mai, Pattaya, Hua Hin, Koh Samui, and Bangkok.
As part of these efforts, the department revoked licenses for 40 companies in 2024 that were found guilty of breaching regulations concerning director qualifications and ownership disclosures.
In Phuket alone, 15 tour companies had their licenses revoked, highlighting issues of transparency and compliance within the industry.
