Thailand Revises Visa-Free Policy, Cuts Stay from 60 to 30 Days

On July 14, Deputy Prime Minister Spokesperson Ploytalay Laksameesangjan announced that the cabinet has approved a review of Thailand's visa exemption and entry clearance procedures to align tourism facilitation with current conditions while strengthening security. The key change eliminates the 60-day visa exemption for tourism, short-term work, and business visits for 93 countries and territories, as the extended stays were seen as potential channels for illegal activity or purposes inconsistent with tourism. The new measures grant 59 countries a 30-day visa-free stay, including six nations newly added: India, Croatia, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Malta, and Maldives, which ensures all 27 EU member states receive equal treatment and strengthens diplomatic and economic relations. Mauritius and Seychelles will receive a 15-day visa-free stay based on high visitor numbers and spending levels, while India's average stay of 7.17 days per visit was also a key consideration. Visa on Arrival will be available for Azerbaijan, Belarus, and Serbia, with India's VoA cancelled due to the new 15-day exemption to avoid duplication. A total of 65 countries will receive visa benefits under the revised measures, with five related Ministry of Interior announcements taking effect 15 days after Royal Gazette publication. Foreigners who entered before the new rules take effect may complete their stay under the original privileges. Security agencies will enhance the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) system to better screen travelers and link databases across agencies to assess risks and ensure privileges are used as intended. Officials stressed the review maintains tourism growth and international relations while preventing visa policies from becoming channels for illegal activity.