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Officials Review Impacts of 60-Day Visa-Free Policy

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The average number of paid holidays for Europeans is 29 days per annum. Americans have zero government sanctioned vacation days. More than 30 days and who would come? Encourage tourists with 30 days visa free and treat others with suspicion.

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  • They need to review the impact of DTV it's attracting too many undesirables and insufferable vloggers trying to make the rent money off the same worn out themes on YT and thick tok. If there is a bigg

  • What is wrong with a visa free entry for 30 days? Like it was for many years. Who on earth would think that someone coming to Thailand for 60 days really is a tourist?

  • To unsettle people and to  cause problems for people planning their  holidays in Thailand? They have the  strategic problem solving capabilities of special ed students. What is so difficult in ad

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8 hours ago, Georgealbert said:

 

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Picture courtesy of Department of Consular Affairs

 

Senior officials have met to discuss the potential impacts of Thailand’s 60-day visa-free measure, which allows foreign visitors to enter the country for tourism, urgent work or short-term business engagement without a visa. The meeting, held on 22 October 2025, was chaired by Minister of Tourism and Sports Mr. Atthakorn Sirilatthayakorn and attended by Deputy Director-General of the Department of Consular Affairs Mr. Bancha Yuenyongchongcharoen and Mr. Sunh Arunrugstichai, Director of the Visa and Travel Documents Division. Representatives from the Ministry of Interior, the National Security Council, the Immigration Bureau and the Tourism Authority of Thailand also took part.

 

The participants examined both the advantages and disadvantages of the visa-free measure across different sectors. The discussion focused on its economic benefits for tourism and trade, as well as the possible implications for national security and immigration management. The Department of Consular Affairs presented data and key observations reflecting the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ perspective on the policy’s implementation and its broader effects.


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Deputy Director-General Bancha informed the meeting that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is currently preparing a proposal for the Prime Minister to issue an order to re-establish the Visa Policy Committee. The committee, once reinstated, will oversee and coordinate national visa policy, ensuring that new measures are consistent with government priorities and security protocols. This follows the ministry’s ongoing review of visa facilitation frameworks to balance openness to visitors with effective immigration controls.

 

The meeting marked an important step in inter-agency coordination on Thailand’s visa policies. Attendees emphasised the need for continued collaboration between tourism and security agencies to maximise the measure’s benefits while managing any risks. Inputs and recommendations from this meeting will be formally submitted to the new Visa Policy Committee once established, allowing for a comprehensive reassessment of the 60-day visa-free scheme in line with the government’s overall tourism and economic strategies.

 

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Key Takeaways

 

• Officials from key ministries met on 22 October 2025 to discuss the impacts of the 60-day visa-free policy.

• The Ministry of Foreign Affairs will propose the re-establishment of the Visa Policy Committee to review the measure.

• Meeting outcomes will guide future policy decisions to align with government objectives.

 

Related Stories

 

Thailands-visa-shake-up-threatens-retiree-paradise

 

Visa-crackdowns-alarm-Pattaya-expats

 

 

image.png  Adapted  by  Asean  Now from MFA 2025-10-27

 

 

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So they held a meeting to discuss the impacts of the 60 day entry and came away with no recommendations only that they will set up another committee to review the policy and impact. But they were proud that they can continue to work together between agencies ?

To Newbee2022 and Nofarang, you couldn't be more incorrect. I have been coming here for many years. Twice a year for 6 weeks when I was working and now for 90 days once a year now that I am retired.

2 hours ago, Jack Hammer said:

I live in Australia. I come to Thailand every year June to September  to escape the cold  winter here. I rent a condo, mind my own business, civil, and courteous to everyone. I don’t cause any problems. I spend a reasonable amount of money whilst In Thailand. Being an Australian citizen, I am automatically granted a 60 day visa and whilst in Thailand I extend for another 30 days. A lot of people from the northern hemisphere do the same thing October to February to escape the cold

Then why would getting a 3 month Visa be a problem?  It is not about people that do that - it is about the blow-ins causing social and criminal problems.  The 'Security' Agencies have officially told/informed the Tourism' Agencies that they are causing too many problems to the country by these 'open border' Visas/Entries. 

 

Next they will meet a few more times and discuss further - and then agree to form a Committee - and they will meet a few times and discuss - then a draft recommendation will be made to Cabinet - who will think about it and it they agree in principle they will form another Committee to discuss it further - then they will send a set of final recommendations made back to Cabinet - who will then eventually discuss the matter in Cabinet meetings for a while - then they will/might make a decision - Yes/No or Discuss more.  If Yes, then the Cabinet decision will be referred to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs who will form a Working Group - then the working group will meet a few times to work out what Regulations and Rules need to be changed - then they will direct the Department bureaucracy to draft those rule and regulation changes - they will form an Implementation Committee who will meet many times to discuss and agree the exact wording required to make the changes that are needed - then they will create a Change Proposal which will be sent back to the Implementation Committee - they will have a meeting or two to accept the proposed changes - then they will send that document back to the Working Group - they will have a meeting or two and then send the documentation to Cabinet - who will take a few meetings to discuss and if the decision if Yes they will send it to the Privy Office for Royal Assent.   Please not at any time during all that - one or more 'groups' might decide to make changes and send it all back through the 'system' again. I reckon in about 2-3 years the needed changes will be made. 

 

By the way - that same process is currently being undertaken about changing the Thailand Tax rules and regulations to implement a global taxation system as opposed to the current remittance only system, and that will probably take about the same length of time too - and could at any time also be dropped.  

6 hours ago, proton said:

They need to review the impact of DTV it's attracting too many undesirables and insufferable vloggers trying to make the rent money off the same worn out themes on YT and thick tok. If there is a bigger pest than soi dogs it's vloggers.

 

There are tens of thousands of people effectively living in Thailand on the DTV. In the past they were always specifically trying to prevent people from living on tourist visas so this new 180 reversal makes no sense to me as it's totally out of character. In theory they can start to crack down on people using entries back to back but that's yet to be seen.

working on a visa exempt entry is ok if it is urgent ?

Of course they're discussing it because it's coming towards high season.  They just want 60 days when it suits them. Can read them like a book.  They'll put it back to 30 days and say they will review it around about may/june time just as low season kicks in and put it back to 60 days again.   

It's very vague.  Are they going to have another meeting?  Are they happy to carry on with the 60 days waiver? Is it under review?   etc, etc.      

Same same one year ago and nothing happened. 

 

THey simply must stop the criminal, benidorm Brits, violent druggies coming here and ruining Thailand - this puts of tourism.

 

The irony being the whole policies of the previous administration to open up the borders to every man and their dog, to cheap tourist destinations, to allow people to stay longer has increased crime and seen a reduction in tourism.

 

People come for Thai culture, not gentrification, condos (which i believe is what the policies were really intended for). 

 

This also harms hotels, as those staying two months go into airbnb type accomodation. 

Tourists do not want to visit crime ridden, violence, druggie places. It's why Phillipines struggles alot. 

 

Thailand once seen as safe, where tourists came and went. Now you have them staying and creative chaos. 

The issue with the DTV is it is not being used by remote workers. The intentions and those behind it (if you check who implemented it) was most likely to boost the condo market. It's being abused by criminals to stay longer. 

 

The cheap visitors who stay on it for a long time, are then going around searching for work. They are not remote workers. They are workers here. Those who could afford to stay here with savings had plenty of visa options before that. 

 

The people on it are abusing the system and using it to live here, then working. 

 

The thresholds are too low, and the fact there is no criminal record check is astonishing. Every country will have a criminal record check version. Even in India if you want to go work in airport there will be a relevant body that will get you a copy of your criminal record. 

 

You have regions like Phuket, Koh Samui, Pai, that were once tourists hot spots now effectively areas for Isrealis, Russians, Brits to come and live. They are no longer Thai. 

Vietnam demands one. Thailand does not. Why ?

When Thailand scratches it's head and wonders why tourism numbers are falling - THE ANSWER STARES THEM IN THE FACE. 

9 hours ago, chawbdurian said:

What exactly is the goal here?

To discuss a U-turn or not.

So many perspectives and issues here, the only way to do this is to try it and if it doesn't work change it back. 

6 hours ago, nofarang said:

What is wrong with a visa free entry for 30 days? Like it was for many years. Who on earth would think that someone coming to Thailand for 60 days really is a tourist?

Absolutely- You should be on that committee…

7 hours ago, nofarang said:

What is wrong with a visa free entry for 30 days? Like it was for many years. Who on earth would think that someone coming to Thailand for 60 days really is a tourist?

Many people winter away from their home countries, known as snowbirds I for instance spend 5 months every year in Thailand as a genuine tourist. And have done so for many years. Probably spending money you can only dream about. 

7 hours ago, ChipButty said:

I wouldnt want my family coming to visit me for 60 days, 2 weeks is enough, 

You spelled 2 hours wrongly

Thailand 60-day tourist visa (or visa exemption + extension),  the current setup — 60 days on arrival with an optional 30-day extension — is perfect for us  UK winter travellers escaping the UK’s grey, wet months.

Before COVID, getting that visa in person at the Thai Consulate in Liverpool really was straightforward — a few forms, a photo, and you were set. Once everything went online, the eVisa system added a lot of friction: endless document uploads, strict photo specs, proof of funds, return tickets, accommodation details, etc. It’s improved a lot since the early days, it’s the people who try to game the system that end up making it harder for everyone else.

8 hours ago, nofarang said:

What is wrong with a visa free entry for 30 days? Like it was for many years. Who on earth would think that someone coming to Thailand for 60 days really is a tourist?

People who work seasonal jobs at home have long holidays. Pensioners have even longer holidays. Snowbirds as myself, come to miss the western winter months. Many jobs where you can take a month off.

I for example come for 60 days, then extend, after I do a nice trip elsewhere ( Japan, Australia, Indonesia, Sri Lanka , Laos,  Cambodia , Singapore, Malaysia, Borneo ) and then come back into Thailand for 2 months. That’s 5 months plus my extra holiday away. I’m now a pensioner and can spend my money anywhere I choose legally. 
How would immigration or any sort of visa guarantee that the people they let in are not going to be dealers/thieves/addicts/murderer ?
Its not  written  on their face * I’m dangerous * when applying for a visa  or in front of an IO. 
It’s up to the police to do their job and actually work ! I’m for making the rules known on entry, and risk of deportation. And carry it through.

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5 hours ago, Purdey said:

The average number of paid holidays for Europeans is 29 days per annum. Americans have zero government sanctioned vacation days. More than 30 days and who would come? Encourage tourists with 30 days visa free and treat others with suspicion.

Do you know the word “retirement”? It means that most people don’t have to work their whole life, and consequently have lots more time for travel than one month per year.

14 hours ago, Georgealbert said:

Deputy Director-General Bancha informed the meeting that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is currently preparing a proposal for the Prime Minister to issue an order to re-establish the Visa Policy Committee. The committee, once reinstated, will oversee and coordinate national visa policy, ensuring that new measures are consistent with government priorities and security protocols.

 

A proposal to form a committee is being worked on, so I wouldn't expect any changes in a hurry. Precious little seems to have been done since they discussed this matter earlier this year lol.

14 hours ago, Georgealbert said:

60-day visa-free measure, which allows foreign visitors to enter the country for tourism, urgent work or short-term business engagement (...)

 

Whoa, wait a minute! Since when are VFE valid for 'urgent work or short-term business engagement'? 

1 hour ago, Salford soidog said:

Once everything went online, the eVisa system added a lot of friction: endless document uploads, strict photo specs, proof of funds, return tickets, accommodation details, etc. It’s improved a lot since the early days, it’s the people who try to game the system that end up making it harder for everyone else.

 

And how about expats who don't want to travel back home just for a visa application? There are more and more limitations on tourist-visa-issuance at Thailand embassies and consulates in the region. If they reduce VFEs to 30 days again, then other destinations (Malaysia, Philippines, Cambodia, Vietnam, etc.) will become real alternatives... Bring it on, Thailand!

Overall, i think the 60 day visa exempt/VOA has been a bit of a disaster.

To the casual observer, Thailand must look like the wild west currently, the daily news reports of unruly, illegal, and bad behaviour by tourists has exploded since the 60 day rule was introduced.

 

That said, it suits me, 60 days and 30 day extension, it saves me a £35 visa fee and an hour of online applications.

13 hours ago, Nickcage49 said:

So let me get this straight. They want to increase the airport tax, but give 60 days visa free? Make up your minds guys. Which is it? Do you want tourists or don't you want tourists?

You are asking a Thai official to make up his mind? It's a high bar. If they are capable of it at all, it's only for a short time, and then they have second thoughts.... 

19 hours ago, nofarang said:

What is wrong with a visa free entry for 30 days? Like it was for many years. Who on earth would think that someone coming to Thailand for 60 days really is a tourist?

Who on earth? How many millions of people worldwide are retired and have enough money to spend 2 or 3 months in Thailand when it is noting but cold dark and snow in their home country? Just one example. Many others.

4 hours ago, Asean Tiger said:

Who on earth? How many millions of people worldwide are retired and have enough money to spend 2 or 3 months in Thailand when it is noting but cold dark and snow in their home country? Just one example. Many others.

The question everytime remains... what is a tourist?? If you come to escape the winter you are not a tourist anymore

touristin British English

noun
1. 
a. 
a person who travels for pleasure, usually sightseeing and staying in hotels
 
Personally I think that tourists stays on a holiday destination mostly not longer than 3 weeks and than move on.. But if people want to stay longer they should not be called tourists anymore.. IMO it is very expensive to stay in hotels for 60 days, even if you are retired and many times coming in and out will cost a lot of money for flights. Probably these kind of tourists have an own accomodation and therefor not real tourists and should apply for a non immigrant visa...
22 hours ago, ikke1959 said:

A normal tourist has enough for 30 days visa.. Longer stays are making more problems.. Of course if someone likes to stay longer let them apply for a 60 or 90 day visa at the Thai Embassy or Consulate in their country.. At least than there is some control and visa fee...60 day visa no extension possible not allowed to enter the kingdom again within 180 days, same for the 90 day visa..Everybody happy

for some  like me ,stay 6 month less and eneter minimum 10 time ....make visa everytime,sry no come more

 

whats like the UAE ..No visa ..you enter egate (after second entry) you can come as many as you want..and the screen shows you how many days left for you to stay  ( up to 180 days per year) ,no entry <deleted> no Digital cards, no exclusions.youalways know how much can stay..more than 180 days .go immigration...thats it

 

even india is advanced

 

5 year touris  multiplen t visa 80USD (i think thai can charge more even , can come 180days per year ,up to you how many time...stay longer,no exclusion..go immigration

 

but this stupid hikhak in thailand   is................over 30  years i here and since taxsin,the ever changing <deleted>,and thts already over 20years it started

 

 

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