Thailand to review 60-Day ‘visa-free’ policy due to security concerns

Tourism and Sports Minister Surasak Phancharoenworakul has revealed that the Thai government is reconsidering the 60-day pre-travel visa exemption policy, following the identification of security loopholes and reports of the behaviour of some visitors which has tarnished the country's image.

Surasak stated yesterday that the government is likely to revoke the experimental policy, which provides a visa on arrival rather than applying at a consulate prior to travel, currently granted to citizens of 93 countries and territories.

The proposed reversal comes after a joint evaluation, by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, security agencies and the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, identified a number of negative impacts regarding national security and tourism standards.

Authorities have seen an increase in foreign nationals exploiting the extended stay to engage in illegal activities.

Key concerns include public disturbances, such as nuisances in convenience stores and reckless driving, alongside more serious threats like transnational criminals using the 60-day window to hide within Thailand.

Additionally, officials noted some negative economic impacts, including foreigners working illegally, competing for local jobs and operating through prohibited nominee-owned business structures.

Minister Surasak also highlighted that statistical data suggests the current 60 days without needing to extend a stay in the country may be longer than is necessary for genuine travellers.

“Data shows that over 90% of quality tourists stay in Thailand for between 1 and 30 days. Only 10% stay beyond 30 days and it is within this small minority that we find individuals surreptitiously engaging in non-tourist or illegal activities," the Minister explained.

By reducing the duration of stay, to align with actual travel patterns (likely returning to a 30-day standard), the government aims to tighten the screening process and prevent the policy from being exploited as a loophole to achieve long-term illegal residency.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is currently meeting to finalise the details before presenting a formal proposal to the Cabinet.

The goal is to amend the previous resolution granting the 60-day stay.

While the government remains committed to economic stimulus through tourism, officials emphasised that the priority must shift back to attracting who contribute significantly to the economy while respecting Thai laws, rather than prioritising volume at the cost of public safety and national order.