The widely discussed reduction of Thailand’s visa-free stay has now moved from speculation to decision.
The Thai government has confirmed that the permitted stay under the visa-exemption scheme will be reduced from 60 days to 30 days, Pattaya Mail reports.
The decision, announced by the Thai government in early 2026, marks a policy shift back to the previous 30-day framework. Authorities say the aim is to ensure that visa-free entry supports short-term tourism rather than extended stays.
Since July 2024, travellers from 93 countries have been allowed to stay in Thailand visa-free for up to 60 days. The expansion was introduced to stimulate tourism after the pandemic.
According to officials, the longer stay period has increasingly been used for purposes beyond holiday travel. Tourism operators have raised concerns about illegal employment, unregistered businesses and foreign-run tour companies operating without proper permits.
By reverting to 30 days, the government says it wants to restore the visa-exemption system to its original intent.
Travellers who wish to stay longer than 30 days are expected to still be able to apply for a 30-day extension at a Thai immigration office. The list of 93 eligible countries is not expected to change.
No exact implementation date has yet been announced. Until the new regulation takes effect, the current 60-day visa-free stay remains in place.
