Thailand plans to scrap visa-free stay, cut duration
Thailand is scrapping its 60-day visa-free entry scheme and cutting permitted stays to focus on longer-staying, higher-spending tourists and prevent visa misuse.
BANGKOK — 25 April 2026, Thailand is considering scrapping its 60-day visa-free entry scheme for foreign visitors and reducing permitted stays, as authorities shift focus towards higher-spending, long-stay tourists, officials said.
Tourism and Sports Minister Surasak Phancharoenworakul said the government is reviewing the policy after a trial period and is preparing to submit proposed changes to the Cabinet soon.
The measure currently allows travellers from 93 countries and territories to enter Thailand without a visa for up to 60 days. Officials now plan to scrap the blanket scheme and revert to country-specific arrangements, while exploring new visa options tailored to different markets.
Surasak said the changes aim to better reflect actual travel patterns and curb misuse of the system.
"More than 90% of tourists stay between one and 30 days, while only about 10% remain longer," he said. "Allowing extended stays may enable some individuals to work illegally or engage in improper activities."
He said the revised approach would prioritise "quality tourists" who stay longer and contribute more to the economy, while serving as a screening mechanism for undesirable visitors.
The Foreign Ministry has already discussed the proposal, which will require Cabinet approval to amend the original resolution.
Separately, authorities are also pushing ahead with plans to introduce a 300-baht tourism fee for foreign arrivals by air. The levy would fund tourism development, safety measures and infrastructure improvements.
Surasak said such fees are common internationally, citing Japan's departure tax as an example, and insisted the measure would not deter visitors but help strengthen Thailand's tourism sector in the long term.
