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THAILAND will halve the visa-free stay for visitors from 60 countries and territories to 30 days from Sept 15, as authorities step up efforts to prevent foreigners from exploiting the country's immigration system for criminal activities.
The measure, announced by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, comes as tourism remains a key contributor to Thailand's economy, despite a three per cent decline in foreign tourist arrivals compared with the same period last year.
Under the current visa-exemption scheme, citizens of more than 90 countries and territories, including 29 Schengen countries, China, India, the United States and several South American nations, can enter Thailand without a visa for up to 60 days.
From Sept 15, the 30-day limit will apply to visitors from 60 countries and territories, including Singapore, China, the United States and 27 European Union member states, according to Thailand's Ministry of Foreign Affairs' Department of Consular Affairs.
The status of visa-free arrangements for about 20 other countries remains unclear, with a Foreign Ministry official declining to comment on Tuesday.
In a separate change, visitors from Peru, Brazil and South Korea will be allowed to stay visa-free for up to 90 days, compared with 60 days previously.
Tourists will still be able to apply for a one-time extension of their stay, subject to the discretion of immigration officers, according to a government spokesman who spoke to AFP in May after the Cabinet approved the measures.
Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow said shortening the visa-free stay was part of broader efforts to crack down on individuals abusing the system to commit crimes in Thailand.
The authorities' move follows a series of recent arrests involving foreign nationals accused of offences including drug-related crimes and sex trafficking, as well as running businesses such as hotels and schools without the necessary permits.
Thailand has recorded 20.9 million foreign tourist arrivals since the beginning of the year, according to the latest official figures, down three per cent from the same period in 2025. - September 2, 2026
