- Thailand confirmed it will halve visa-free stays from 60 to 30 days for tourists from more than 60 countries, effective September 15.
- The Notifications of the Interior Ministry were published in the Royal Gazette on August 13, formalizing the 30-day visa exemption for citizens of 60 countries.
- From September 15, most foreign tourists will be limited to 30-day visa-free stays, with re-entry restricted to twice a year for most.
- The idea of cutting visa-free stays was initially floated by Thailand back in May.
- Tourism is vital to Thailand's economy, accounting for more than 10% of its GDP.
- The new visa rules come amid concerns over security issues involving foreign nationals.
Thailand is set to halve the visa-free stay duration for tourists from over 60 countries, including EU nations, from 60 days to 30 days starting September 15. This decision, confirmed in the Royal Gazette, follows a rise in high-profile crimes involving foreign nationals, prompting concerns over security.12345
The Thai foreign ministry has indicated that the new rules will limit re-entry under the visa exemption scheme to no more than twice a year, with exceptions for travelers from Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore. Tourism is crucial to Thailand's economy, contributing over 10% to its GDP. Despite the new restrictions, the private sector has expressed support for the changes, emphasizing the need for clear guidelines for immigration officers to avoid confusion among tourists.7
The Thai Hotels Association president, Thienprasit Chaiyapatranun, stated, “The new visa rules are appropriate for the current context as security issues have become more prominent.” He also noted that 30 days is sufficient for tourism purposes, reflecting a shift in tourist behavior.8
While most tourists will face the new 30-day limit, some countries, including Brazil and Peru, will see their visa-free stays extended to 90 days. Applicants for the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) must show proof of at least 500,000 baht (approximately €13,000) in a bank account and employment outside Thailand. The changes are part of a broader effort to manage tourism and security in the country.
“The new rule, published in the Royal Gazette on Aug 13, also restricts re-entry to twice a year for most visitors, except those from Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore. Meanwhile, Brazil, Peru, South Korea, Argentina and Chile will get 90-day reciprocal stays, and the Destination Thailand Visa allows up to 180 days per entry.”
Euronews.com
