Thailand to slash tourist visa-free stays | Tourism News
Thailand to Revise Visa Policy for Tourists
Published: May 19, 2026
Thailand’s cabinet has approved significant changes to its visa-free entry system for travelers from more than 90 countries. The decision, announced on Tuesday, marks a departure from the 60-day visa exemption introduced in July 2024, which aimed to revitalize the tourism sector following the pandemic. Previously, this exemption applied to nationals from countries, including the United States, Israel, and members of the Schengen Area.
Under the new policy, Thailand will implement a tiered visa system. Tourists will now be limited to a maximum stay of 30 days without a visa, while travelers from certain countries will have their stay restricted to 15 days.
Government spokesperson Rachada Dhanadirek emphasized the need for security reforms, citing instances of misuse of the existing scheme. “Tourism is crucial to our economy, but safety concerns must take precedence,” she said during a press briefing in Bangkok.
Officials have noted that the previous 60-day allowance inadvertently created loopholes, leading to an increase in illegal activities, including unauthorized foreign workers and online scams. The government now believes that the 30-day limit will better accommodate legitimate, high-value tourists.
This policy shift follows a series of arrests involving foreign nationals linked to drug trafficking and human smuggling, as well as unauthorized businesses such as hotels and language schools.
Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow stated the new policy is not aimed at specific nationalities but at individuals exploiting the visa system to avoid law enforcement.
To mitigate systemic abuse, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will enforce a limit of two visa-free entries per calendar year at land borders for those qualifying for the standard 30-day allowance. This decision reinstates regulations similar to those in place prior to the 2024 expansion.
The timeline for the implementation of these changes has yet to be announced. The adjustments come at a critical time for Thailand’s economy, where tourism contributes over 10% to the nation’s gross domestic product. Recent government data indicated a 3.4% decline in foreign arrivals in the first quarter, largely attributed to a nearly 30% drop in visitors from the Middle East.
Despite these challenges, officials remain steadfast in their goal to attract 33.5 million international tourists this year.
