Thailand tightens visa rules for tourists, citing crime by foreigners
Summary
Thailand will shorten the time tourists from over 90 countries can stay without a visa to help reduce crimes by foreigners. The new allowed stays will mostly be 15 to 30 days, replacing the current 60-day visa-free period.Key Facts
- Thailand currently allows tourists from over 90 countries, including the US and Europe, to stay visa-free for 60 days.
- The Thai government has decided to reduce this visa-free stay to mostly 30 days or sometimes 15 days.
- Tourists can ask to extend their stay once by applying at an immigration office and explaining their reason.
- The change aims to fight crimes such as drug offenses, sex trafficking, and illegal business operations by foreigners.
- Thailand’s tourism industry is important, making up more than 10% of its economy.
- Tourist numbers are still below pre-Covid levels, with a slight drop in visitors during early 2026 compared to 2025.
- The visa-free stay had been extended to 60 days in July 2024 to encourage more tourists.
- Officials say the policy targets individuals abusing the visa system, not any specific nationality.
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