New regulation in Thailand to limit visa-free stay to 30 days for tourists

Thailand is set to reduce the period of visa-free stays from 60 days to 30 days for travellers from countries granted visa exemptions, in a move aimed at curbing illegal business activities.

According to the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, this decision follows extensive discussions among relevant stakeholders, Caliber.Az reports via Thai media.

Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong announced that the Foreign Ministry has recognized the need for the change, following ongoing discussions in recent weeks. He explained that all parties involved had agreed in principle to shorten the stay for visa-exempt travellers. However, further details and discussions will take place before the official regulation change is made public.

Since July 2024, Thailand has allowed citizens from 93 countries to stay for up to 60 days without a visa for tourism purposes, an extension from the previous 57 countries eligible under this program. While this move was intended to encourage tourism, it has raised concerns within the industry. Tourism operators pointed out that long-haul tourists typically stay for only 14-21 days on average, and short-haul visitors tend to stay less than two weeks, with an average stay of around seven days.

The Association of Thai Travel Agents had previously raised concerns that the extended visa exemption period contributed to an increase in illegal businesses, including foreigners working or conducting business without proper authorization. The Thai Hotels Association linked this to the growing issue of illegal condo rentals, where properties were rented out on a daily basis in violation of regulations.

Adding to the pressure, a former member of parliament in Phuket recently called for a reduction in the visa-free stay period to 30 days and for stronger action against foreign businesses operating without compliance. In response, Natthriya Thaweevong, the ministry's permanent secretary, stated that the Ministry of Tourism and Sports has instructed the Tourism Department to enforce the Tourism Business and Tourist Guide Act more rigorously.

Thaweevong also highlighted the ongoing efforts of a special joint operational centre, which includes six authorities, such as the Tourism Department and Tourist Police, working to investigate illicit activities in popular tourism hotspots. These areas include Phuket, Chiang Mai, Pattaya, Hua Hin, Koh Samui, and Bangkok.

In 2024, the joint centre revoked the licenses of 40 companies for violations related to illegal changes in company directors and shareholding structures. In Phuket alone, 15 tour companies had their licenses revoked. Additionally, some companies were found to have registered under multiple names, further complicating efforts to enforce the law.

By Tamilla Hasanova