Thailand has approved a plan to reduce the length of visa-free stays for tourists from more than 90 countries as part of efforts to curb crimes involving foreign nationals.
The decision was approved by the country’s cabinet on Tuesday, Tourism Minister Surasak Phancharoenworakul told reporters in Bangkok.
Under the current scheme, travellers from more than 90 countries, including the United States, Israel, several South American countries, and Europe’s 29-member Schengen area, can stay in Thailand for up to 60 days without a visa.
However, the new visa-free stay period will be decided on a country-by-country basis. Most foreign visitors are expected to be allowed to stay for up to 30 days, while some may receive only 15 days, according to Surasak.
The move comes amid a recent rise in high-profile cases involving foreigners. These include arrests linked to drug offences, sex trafficking, and the illegal operation of businesses such as hotels and schools without proper permits.
Thailand had previously allowed visa-free stays of up to 30 days. The period was extended to 60 days in July 2024 to support tourism and boost the economy.
Tourism contributes more than 10% to Thailand’s GDP, although foreign arrivals have yet to return to pre-pandemic levels.
According to tourism ministry data, foreign arrivals declined by around 3.4% in the first quarter of this year compared to the same period in 2025. Arrivals from the Middle East fell by nearly one-third.
Thailand expects to receive around 33.5 million foreign tourists this year, slightly higher than nearly 33 million recorded last year.
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