Thailand will halve the visa-free stay for foreigners.

Thailand is amending its visa-free stay regulations for foreign citizens, halving their duration. Effective September 15 of this year, the permitted visa-free stay in the country for citizens of eligible countries will be reduced from 60 to 30 days.

This decision, which cancels the special 60-day visa-free regime in effect since the summer of 2024, was officially published by the Ministry of Home Affairs in the Royal Gazette. The document emphasizes that the purpose of the amendment is to adapt immigration regulations to the current situation, strengthen national security, and optimize the management of tourist flows.

The new regulations will take effect on September 15, 15 days after the publication of the notice. It is important to note that these changes will not affect entry conditions stipulated by Thailand's separate bilateral agreements with other countries; citizens of these countries will continue to enjoy their existing conditions.

For travelers requiring a longer stay, a one-time extension of an additional 30 days remains possible. To do this, you will need to contact your local immigration office.

The changes will only apply to those entering Thailand from September 15 onward. Tourists arriving before this date will be able to use the full 60-day stay granted to them upon entry.

The proposal to reduce the visa-free stay from 60 to 30 days was approved by the Thai government back in May. At the time, it was reported that the restriction would affect citizens of more than 90 countries. The Minister of Tourism and Sports of Thailand attributed this decision to the increase in violations by foreigners, including cases of illegal employment, fraud, and other offenses.