Thailand’s visa-free rules are under review, with possible changes for citizens of 36 countries as the government aims to favor longer stays and higher spending.
Thailand is reviewing its visa-free rules, and the discussion could lead to changes for citizens of 36 countries. For now, the current system remains in place, but travellers should watch official announcements before booking or extending a stay.
What the government is considering
Tourism and Sports Minister Surasak Phancharoenworrakun said on 22 April that the government is actively reviewing the visa-free programme. At present, citizens of 93 countries can enter Thailand without a visa for up to 60 days. That policy was introduced in July last year to support tourism and the wider economy.
Officials are now weighing whether to return to the previous list of 57 visa-free countries. Special visa arrangements are also being considered for some countries. The proposal is expected to be submitted to the Cabinet for further discussion soon.
Why the policy is being reviewed
The review follows criticism from some major tourism regions. Some residents and business operators argued that the programme encouraged illegal activity and undeclared work. There were also reports of overstays.
Another concern was that the system was attracting lower-spending visitors. The government says it wants to shift Thailand’s tourism model away from mass volume and toward longer stays and higher-value travel, with more benefit for the economy and less negative spillover.
What travellers should do now
Travellers planning a trip to Thailand should not assume the rules have changed yet. The review is still under discussion, so the existing visa-free rules remain valid unless and until the government announces a new policy.
If you are travelling under visa-free rules, check the latest entry requirements for your nationality before departure. If you expect a longer stay, it may be wise to look into the correct tourist visa in advance.
- Verify requirements on official Thai embassy or Ministry of Foreign Affairs channels.
- Monitor government announcements on visa policy.
- Check whether your passport is among the 93-country visa-free list.
- Prepare for possible changes if you are planning a future trip.
The wider travel picture
The visa-free rules review is part of a broader strategy. Thailand is also planning support for domestic tourism, including tax relief measures intended to reduce travel costs for residents.
That means the government is looking at both sides of the market at once: international arrivals and local travel demand. For visitors, the practical takeaway is simple: Thailand’s entry policy is being reconsidered, but no change has been confirmed yet.
