Thailand is once again considering reducing the length of visa-free stays for foreign tourists less than two years after expanding the scheme to 60 days.
Tourism and Sports Minister Surasak Phancharoenworakul said on May 11 that authorities are preparing a proposal that could shorten visa-free entry periods for travellers from the 93 countries currently covered by the programme.
No final decision has been made, and the proposal still needs Cabinet approval.
Norwegians stay the longest
According to the minister, the review is based on data showing that most foreign tourists stay in Thailand for an average of just over nine days.
He also said the proposed changes are aimed at preventing foreigners from allegedly misusing tourist entry schemes to stay in Thailand for other purposes.
Surasak added that even if Thailand reduces visa-free stays to 30 days, it would still cover the needs of most travellers.
Norwegian visitors were specifically mentioned during the announcement, with Thai authorities saying they currently record the longest average stay at 21 days.
Tourism fee also still on the table
Thailand introduced the current 60-day visa-free entry scheme in July 2024 to help revive tourism after the pandemic.
The government also said plans for a 300-baht tourism fee for foreign arrivals are still expected to move forward.
