Thailand To Shorten Visa-Free Stays To 30 Days
The revised visa policy will apply to Malaysians.
Cover image via Achadthaya Chuenniran/The Bangkok PostThailand has announced that visa-free stays will be shortened from 60 days to 30 days
This decision aims to curb illicit activities, as some foreigners are exploiting the visa exemption to engage for unauthorised work and business ventures, according to The Bangkok Post.
The revised visa policy will apply to citizens of visa-exempt countries, with further details to be released before its implementation.
Since July last year, tourists from 93 countries, including Malaysia, Singapore, and Indonesia have been allowed to stay in Thailand visa-free for up to 60 days.
There may be exemptions or transitional measures for travellers with existing bookings.
Image via Chanat Katanyu/The Bangkok Post
By halving the visa-free period, the Thai government aims to prevent misuse while preserving tourism
The Thai Hotels Association had highlighted that the 60-day stay contributed to a rise in illegal apartment rentals, particularly in Phuket and Bangkok.
Tourism operators also argued the 60-day period was unnecessary, as most tourists stayed for only seven to 21 days.
The Tourism Authority of Thailand and the Tourist Police are actively combating illegal activities involving foreign tourists in popular destinations like Phuket, Chiang Mai, Pattaya, Koh Samui, and Bangkok.
