Thailand has announced changes to its visa-free entry policy, reducing the duration of stay allowed for foreign tourists under its visa exemption scheme. The move is part of a broader effort to tighten immigration rules and address concerns over overstays and unauthorised work in the country.
Under the revised policy, travellers from eligible countries will now be allowed to stay for a shorter period compared to earlier rules. Authorities said the decision was taken after reviewing travel patterns and increasing cases of visitors extending their stay beyond permitted limits or engaging in activities not covered under tourist visas.
Officials stated that the update is intended to strike a balance between supporting tourism and ensuring better regulation of foreign visitors. Thailand, one of the world’s most popular travel destinations, has relied heavily on tourism for economic growth, but has also faced challenges in managing long-term stays and compliance with visa conditions.
The new restrictions are expected to affect a wide range of travellers, including tourists from Europe, Asia, and other regions who previously benefited from longer visa-free stays. While the government has not changed the list of eligible countries, the shorter duration means visitors will need to plan trips more carefully or apply for extensions if they wish to stay longer.
Travel industry stakeholders believe that this decision may have a short-term impact on travel planning, especially for digital nomads and long-stay tourists who often rely on flexible visa arrangements. However, they also note that Thailand continues to remain a highly attractive destination due to its affordability, infrastructure, and global tourism appeal.
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