The Tourism and Sports Ministry insists the government's plan to reduce visa‑free stays from 60 to 30 days should not impact tourism, as most foreign tourists on average stay for less than a month.
Natthriya Thaweevong, permanent tourism and sports secretary, said a new committee set up by the prime minister plans to revise visa measures, including 60‑day visa‑free stays for visitors from 93 countries.
She said the Tourism and Sports Ministry provided supporting research for the committee, which is expected to reduce visa-free stays to 30 days.
The ministry agreed in principle to reduce the number of days to prevent loopholes that could be exploited by foreign criminals or individuals intending to commit illegal activities in the country.
"This change should not impact tourism, as foreign tourists on average stay in Thailand for 21 days at most," said Ms Natthriya. "If they want to stay longer than 30 days, they can simply apply for an extension as normal."
She said the caretaker government has the authority to approve this change, as the new government has not yet been formed.
The visa‑free scheme, allowing foreigners from 93 countries to stay in Thailand for up to 60 days, began in mid‑2024.
The rule change was proposed by tourism operators since last year, seeking to reduce foreign criminal activity and promote a safer image for the industry.
