Thailand has announced stricter immigration rules by reducing visa-free stay periods for travelers from more than 90 countries, including the United Kingdom, citing growing security concerns and misuse of the existing system.
WEBDESK – MediaBites News
The Thai government approved the new measures on Tuesday, reversing part of a policy introduced in July 2024 that had allowed visitors from 93 countries to stay in Thailand for up to 60 days without a visa.
Under the revised policy, many tourists will now only be allowed to remain visa-free for 30 days, while travelers planning longer stays will need to apply for formal visas.
Thai authorities said future visa exemptions may vary depending on reciprocal agreements with different countries, meaning stay durations could differ by nationality.
The changes are expected to become effective 15 days after official publication in Thailand’s Royal Gazette.
Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul said the decision was taken to better align immigration policy with current economic realities and national security concerns.
Officials pointed to rising cases of visa misuse, unauthorized employment, and criminal activities involving foreign nationals as major reasons behind tightening the rules.
In recent months, Thailand has witnessed several high-profile cases involving foreign visitors allegedly linked to drug trafficking, illegal work operations, and sex trafficking networks.
Authorities also cited confusion caused by overlapping immigration exemptions and concerns that tourists were exploiting long-term visa-free entry for unofficial employment and extended stays.
Countries previously benefiting from the 60-day visa-free policy included the United Kingdom, the United States, China, India, Australia, France, Germany, Italy, and Spain.
Thailand remains one of Asia’s leading tourism destinations, with tourism contributing heavily to the national economy.
Before the COVID-19 pandemic, Thailand welcomed nearly 40 million international visitors annually. Tourism numbers have gradually recovered in recent years, with nearly 12 million foreign arrivals recorded so far this year.
Industry experts say the tighter rules may particularly impact digital nomads, long-stay visitors, and repeat travelers, although Thai authorities insist the policy is necessary to improve immigration control and public safety.
The government added that immigration policies would continue to be reviewed regularly to balance tourism growth with national security priorities.
