Thailand has announced that it will reduce the duration of visa-free stays for tourists from various countries, including the United States. Tourists from 54 nations will now be limited to 30-day stays without a visa, a decrease from the previous 60 days.
The policy change comes after the country had extended visa-free stays since 2024 to boost tourism post-pandemic. In 2025, approximately 33 million international tourists visited Thailand, a decrease from nearly 40 million in 2019, based on data from the Bank of Thailand.
The new regulations will apply to citizens of the United States, Canada, France, Germany, Japan, Singapore, and several other countries. The Thai Embassy in Washington has confirmed the plan but has not provided details on the reasoning. However, the Bangkok Post reported concerns about unauthorized businesses and criminal activities by foreigners as potential reasons.
This new policy will become effective 15 days after its publication in The Royal Gazette, Thailand’s official record. The exact date of publication is yet to be confirmed. Those already in Thailand under the existing visa rules can stay until their current permitted period ends.
For travelers from nations not covered by the new 30-day visa program, various rules will apply. These include a 15-day visa exemption for nationals from three Indian Ocean island countries and visas on arrival for individuals from four countries, including India. Visitors needing a visa can apply through Thailand’s online visa portal.
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