Thailand to Reduce Visa-Free Stay from 60 to 30 Days to Crack Down on Illegal Businesses – News18
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Thailand is reducing its visa-free stay from 60 to 30 days to curb illegal business activities, a move that could impact long-term visitors like digital nomads and retirees.
While Thailand remains a welcoming destination for tourists, the government is reinforcing stricter visa regulations to prevent prolonged stays without proper authorization.
Thailand is tightening its visa policies, reducing the maximum visa-free stay from 60 days to 30 days in an effort to curb unauthorized business activities, Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong announced. The policy change, approved in principle by multiple ministries, will affect passport holders from 93 countries who previously enjoyed extended stays.
Why the Change?
The move comes in response to concerns from the Association of Thai Travel Agents about the rising number of foreigners engaging in unregulated work and business operations while on long-term visa-free stays, according to a Bloomberg report. Additionally, the Thai Hotels Association has linked extended stays to illegal condominium rentals, which they argue disrupt the formal hospitality sector.
Impact on Thailand’s Tourism Goals
Tourism plays a crucial role in Thailand’s economy, which is the second-largest in Southeast Asia. The country aims to attract over 40 million international visitors in 2024, surpassing pre-pandemic levels. As of March 9, Thailand had already welcomed 7.66 million foreign travellers, marking a 4.4% increase year-over-year.
However, the visa policy shift could affect long-term visitors such as digital nomads, remote workers, and retirees, many of whom rely on visa-free stays for extended periods. Businesses catering to these groups—such as co-working spaces and long-term rental providers—may experience shifts in demand as visitors adjust to the new regulations.
What’s Next?
Authorities are expected to announce an official implementation date soon, along with potential exemptions or transitional measures for affected travellers. While Thailand remains a welcoming destination for tourists, the government is reinforcing stricter visa regulations to prevent prolonged stays without proper authorization.
