The updated regulations revoke the visa leniency introduced in July 2024, when Thailand broadened visa-free entry to 93 countries as part of efforts to restore tourism following the Covid-19 pandemic.
With the new regulations, foreign visitors, including those from India, can now stay in Thailand visa-free for a maximum of 30 days instead of the previous 60 days. Travelers wishing to extend their stay will need to seek extensions at immigration offices or consider other visa types.
Thai officials indicated that the decision stemmed from concerns that some foreigners were purportedly exploiting the visa exemption for unlawful work, unauthorized business activities, visa violations, and criminal behavior. National security issues and confusion from overlapping visa policies were also highlighted.Also Read: Planning a long drive? These Indian road trips are perfect before monsoon hits
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul mentioned that the government reassessed the policy to align it “more appropriately with the current circumstances” regarding both economic factors and national security.
The foreign ministry of Thailand stated that stay lengths under the updated system will now be determined individually for each country, with certain nations receiving shorter or longer exemption times depending on reciprocal agreements.
The revised visa framework will become effective 15 days after its official publication in the Royal Gazette, where legal and regulatory announcements are made.
Thailand has affirmed its commitment to promoting long-term visa initiatives, such as the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV), which is a five-year multiple-entry visa designed for remote workers, freelancers, and digital nomads.
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