Thailand has announced a reduction in the length of visa-free stays for tourists from 54 countries, including the United States, Canada, France, Germany, Japan, and Singapore. The government’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that visitors from these countries will now be allowed to stay in Thailand for up to 30 days without a visa, down from the previous 60 days. This policy reversal contrasts with the broader relaxation of visa regulations implemented in 2024, which had extended visa-free stays for over 90 nations to encourage tourism recovery following the COVID-19 pandemic.

The new restriction aims to address concerns about foreigners engaging in unauthorized business activities and criminal behavior, according to reports citing government sources. The Thai Embassy in Washington confirmed the upcoming change but did not comment on the specific reasons behind the policy adjustment.

Implementation of the new 30-day visa exemption will begin 15 days after its publication in The Royal Gazette, the official government publication, though the date of release has not yet been announced. Tourists currently in Thailand under existing visa terms will be permitted to stay until the expiration of their allowed duration.

Thailand attracted approximately 33 million foreign visitors in 2025, a figure that remains below the nearly 40 million tourists recorded in 2019 before the pandemic. The government’s shift in visa policy may reflect attempts to manage post-pandemic tourism flows more tightly.

For travelers from countries outside the group affected by the new 30-day limit, visa requirements will vary widely. For instance, three Indian Ocean island nations will receive a 15-day visa exemption, while travelers from four other countries, including India, will need to obtain visas on arrival. Eligible visitors can apply for visas through the Thai government’s online portal.

This move signifies a notable change in Thailand’s approach to international tourism, recalibrating the balance between facilitating travel and maintaining regulatory oversight.