(Image source from: Businesstoday.in)

Thailand plans to shorten the visa-free stay duration for visitors from 93 nations from 60 days down to 30 days in order to address issues with crime, according to the foreign minister. On Tuesday, Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkaeow mentioned that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will present a proposal to the Cabinet to gain support for this change regarding the duration for foreign tourists in Thailand, reducing it to 30 days from 60. He did not provide a specific date for when this will take effect.

Since July 2024, Thailand has provided a visa-free stay option for tourists from 93 countries. Additionally, Thai officials will review other types of visas to ensure that people entering the country are following the reasons for their visits. These actions aim to tackle issues related to the improper use of long-term visas and the participation of certain tourists in unlawful activities. Between January 1 and May 10, 2026, Thailand welcomed 12.4 million international visitors, which is a drop of 3.43% when compared to the same timeframe last year.

Tourism plays a vital role in the economy, with foreign visitor numbers reaching almost 40 million in 2019.