Thailand May Cut Visa-Free Stays
Thailand is considering shorter visa-free stays for tourists from more than 90 countries as officials respond to crimes involving foreign nationals. The current 60-day visa-free period, introduced in March 2025 to support tourism, could be reduced to 30 days for some visitors. Reports suggest the government may assess countries individually, with some travellers possibly receiving only 15 visa-free days.
The proposal has not yet been fully confirmed, but it would mark a clear shift in Thailand’s post-pandemic tourism policy. Tourism remains central to the economy, accounting for more than 10% of GDP, yet arrivals have not fully returned to pre-pandemic levels. Foreign arrivals reportedly fell by about 3.4% in the first quarter compared with the same period in 2025.
Longer-Stay Options
If the change goes ahead, Thailand may return to a system where 30-day visa-free visitors can request a further 30-day extension for 1,900 baht, or about €50. Longer stays are also possible through the Destination Thailand Visa, which offers:
- Five-year multiple entry
- Up to 180 days per entry
- One 180-day extension
- Bank funds of 500,000 baht
The change would affect how visitors plan longer beach stays, remote-working periods and multi-stop trips across Thailand. Shorter visa-free stays may push travellers to plan tighter itineraries around Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Krabi and the islands, or use paid extensions for slower journeys. The Destination Thailand Visa may become more relevant for digital nomads, Muay Thai students and cooking-course travellers.
The likely impact is not about short holidays, which often fit within 15 or 30 days anyway. The pressure falls on people who use Thailand for longer winter breaks, flexible travel or remote work. If the rules change, checking entry conditions before booking will matter more, especially for travellers planning open-ended trips or moving around Southeast Asia.
