The Southeast Asian nation has revised its visa-free policy for 54 countries and territories, reducing stays from 60 days to 30 days, following reports of tourists overstaying, engaging in criminal activity, and participating in vandalism and disorderly conduct.
Authorities cited these incidents, along with broader national security concerns, as the reason for the policy change.
The Cabinet approved the measure on May 19, 2026, to streamline entry rules and prevent tourists from using short-term stamps as long-term work permits.
The decision follows a 2024 policy easing that had extended visa-free stays to 60 days to revive the tourism sector after the coronavirus pandemic severely impacted the economy.
Tourism remains a key contributor to Thailand’s GDP, attracting nearly 33 million international visitors in 2025, according to official statistics.
Cabinet auth orities said they are working to balance continued visitor growth with safety and regulatory oversight, while protecting the integrity of the country’s visa system.
Africa and Global Travelers Affected
Visitors from countries including the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, and South Africa, Africa’s largest economy by GDP, will now receive a 30-day visa-free stay, while some nations must obtain visas on arrival or have shorter exemptions.
Among those affected, Seychelles, Africa’s wealthiest country by GDP per capita, along with the Maldives and Mauritius, will have 15-day visa exemptions, while countries such as Azerbaijan, Belarus, Serbia, and India now require visas on arrival, down from previous arrangements.
European countries affected include France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, Sweden, and the United Kingdom.
In Asia and Oceania, the list covers Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand, Singapore, South Korea, Australia, China, Hong Kong, Macau, Laos, Mongolia, Russia, Kazakhstan, Timor-Leste, and Vietnam.
Middle Eastern countries benefiting from the exemption include Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, while Canada and the United States are included from North America.
Thailand’s Foreign Ministry said authorities had observed growing misuse of the 60-day policy, with some visitors overstaying, working illegally, or engaging in criminal activity.
Viral reports on social media of vandalism, bar fights, and arrests for drug and human trafficking offences reinforced the need for stricter enforcement and monitoring.
Countries retaining 90-day exemptions, including Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Peru, and South Korea, continue to enjoy longer stays, reflecting bilateral agreements and established tourism patterns.
