September 2, 2026 | 09:18 am
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Thailand will halve the visa-free stay for tourists from dozens of countries and territories, including Singapore, China and the United States, to 30 days starting September 15, as authorities move to tighten controls over foreign visitors.
According to CNA, the Thai Foreign Ministry said on Tuesday, September 1, that the reduction applies to travelers from 60 countries and territories currently eligible for visa-free entry. The measure is part of efforts to prevent foreigners from abusing the visa system and curb crimes involving foreign nationals.
Tourism remains vital to Thailand's economy, but authorities have stepped up scrutiny following a series of arrests involving foreigners accused of drug offenses, sex trafficking and operating businesses such as hotels and schools without proper permits.
Under Thailand's current visa-free tourism scheme, travelers from more than 90 countries and territories can stay for up to 60 days without a visa. The eligible destinations include the 29 countries in the Schengen area, as well as China, India, the United States and several South American countries.
The new 30-day limit will cover 60 countries and territories, including Singapore, China, the United States and 27 European Union countries, the Thai Foreign Ministry's Consular Affairs Department said.
The visa-free arrangements for around 20 other countries and territories remained unclear. A Foreign Ministry official declined to comment on Tuesday.
While stays will be shortened for most affected travelers, Peru, Brazil and South Korea will receive more generous treatment. Citizens of those countries will be allowed to stay in Thailand for up to 90 days without a visa, up from the previous 60-day limit.
Tourists affected by the new 30-day limit will be allowed to extend their stay once, subject to the discretion of an immigration officer. The Thai Cabinet approved the measure in May.
Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow said at the time that the move was part of a broader crackdown on people using the visa system to commit crimes in Thailand.
Thailand has continued to attract millions of international visitors despite the tighter rules. Official figures show that 20.9 million foreign tourists visited the country between January and the latest reporting period this year, down 3 percent from the same period in 2025.
The government is therefore seeking to balance tourism growth with tighter immigration controls, particularly as authorities intensify efforts to address crimes involving foreign nationals.
Read: Thai Ex-Lawmaker Shoots Local Official Dead Over Loan
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