Thailand proposes reducing visa-free stay from 60 days to 30
What's the story
Thailand is planning a major revision to its visa-free policy. The change, if implemented, would cut the maximum duration of stay from 60 days to 30 days. This comes after reports of foreign tourists abusing this concession to run illegal businesses in the country. Last year, Thailand had expanded its visa-free scheme, offering visitors from 93 countries and territories a longer stay than earlier.
Business concerns
Concern over illegal business operations
Sorawong Thienthong, Minister of Tourism and Sports, said several ministries and stakeholders have tentatively agreed to this reduction. The main issue is the increasing number of travelers allegedly conducting illegal business in Thailand. In some cases, condominium units are being illegally rented out to visitors. Industry representatives point out that most tourists tend to spend only seven to 21 days in Thailand.
Economic impact
Thailand's tourism revenue and future goals
In 2024, Thailand welcomed more than 35 million tourists and earned a whopping $46 billion in tourism revenue. The country is now focusing on wooing 39 million foreign guests this year. To fulfill this ambitious target, it plans to take major steps including improving safety and airport infrastructure, promoting wellness tourism, and pushing for eco-friendly practices.
Enforcement measures
Crackdown on foreign companies exploiting loopholes
A tourism ministry has said that they will soon launch a crackdown on foreign companies that are exploiting legal loopholes and the visa-free rule. Enforcement will be strengthened in popular tourist areas including Phuket, Pattaya, and Koh Samui. The government also warned that promoters who engage in unlawful short-term rentals will face legal action and a 20,000 baht (US$595) penalties.