Thailand’s Cabinet has approved the cancellation of the 60-day visa-free entry scheme for travellers from more than 90 countries and territories, reverting instead to the previous arrangements that mostly allow stays of around 30 days. The move marks a significant shift in the country’s tourism policy, with authorities citing security concerns and the need to focus on “quality tourists” rather than visitor numbers alone.
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Tourism and Sports Minister Surasak Phancharoenworakul said after the Cabinet meeting on 19 May 2026, that the government had agreed to scrap the 60-day visa exemption measures, including special privileges granted to countries with more than one visa arrangement. He said the government would now return to the original bilateral agreements already in place with each country.
The minister said the revised policy would be forwarded to the relevant agencies before full implementation, with the Visa Policy Committee reviewing the final details country by country. Authorities will consider which visa categories are suitable for each nation, taking into account both economic benefits and national security concerns.
The 60-day visa-free scheme was originally introduced to stimulate tourism and economic activity, but security agencies later raised concerns that it had created loopholes. Officials reportedly found that some foreign nationals had used the system to establish illegal nominee businesses, work without permits, and operate transnational criminal activities, including call-centre scam networks.
According to data from the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, most foreign tourists visiting Thailand stay for an average of only nine days. Authorities therefore believe reducing the maximum visa-free period to 30 days will have limited impact on the country’s main tourism markets.
The Visa Policy Committee is also expected to review whether some countries should receive only 15-day visa-free entry in future as part of a broader restructuring of the system. The government said the revised framework would better reflect current diplomatic and security conditions.
Komchadluek reported that officials said travellers from the original group of 93 countries and territories would no longer automatically receive 60-day stays. Further announcements and further details are expected once the committee completes its country-by-country review.
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Adapted by ASEAN Now Komchadluek 19 May 2026
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