Thailand: reduce visa-free period for foreign tourists

Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong announced that Thailand will reduce the maximum visa-free stay for foreign tourists to 30 days in an effort to curb illegal business activity. The decision has been reached in principle between multiple ministries and is expected to affect passport holders of 93 countries, who were previously allowed a stay in Thailand up to two month without a Visa.

Bloomberg reports that the Association of Thai Travel Agents raised concerns about the increase in foreigners engaged in illegal work and businesses. Bangkok Post reported that the Thai Hotels Association had linked the extended visa-free periods to an increase of illegal condominium rentals by foreign visitors.

Thailand’s economy is the second largest in Southeast Asia. Tourism plays a vital role in this economy. The government wants to attract 40 million foreigners in 2024. That will be a record-breaking number, surpassing that of 2019. As of March 9, Thailand welcomed 7.66 millions international travelers, a 4.4% increase year-on-year.

The new regulation will likely impact long-term travellers and digital nomads, who often use visa-free stays for remote work. Businesses that cater to long-term guests, such as co-working spaces or rental services, could also see changes in their customer demographics.

Soon, authorities are expected to announce a date for the revised visa-free travel policy. They will also provide further details on any exemptions and/or transitional measures that may be available for affected travelers.