Thailand Shortens Visa-Free Stays to Combat Crime

Thailand plans to cut the visa-free stay for tourists from 93 countries from 60 days to 30 days. This measure aims to curb criminal activities associated with extended stays. The Foreign Ministry will present this plan for Cabinet approval. The tourism sector remains a vital part of the economy.

In a bid to combat potential criminal activity, Thailand is taking steps to shorten the visa-free stay for tourists from 93 countries, reducing it from the current 60 days to 30 days.

Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkaeow announced that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will propose this change to the Cabinet for formal approval. The current visa-free scheme has been in place since July 2024.

This initiative seeks to address issues regarding visa misuse and their link to criminal activities. The change comes amid a slight reduction in tourist numbers, with 12.4 million foreign visitors recorded from January to May 2026. The tourism industry remains a critical component of Thailand's economy, having attracted nearly 40 million arrivals in 2019.