Thailand Eyes 30-Day Visa-Free Limit for Foreign Visitors

Thailand Eyes 30-Day Visa-Free Limit for Foreign Visitors

BANGKOK, May 11, 2026 — Thailand plans to shorten the duration of visa-free stays for foreign tourists as authorities seek to align entry rules with travel patterns and curb illegal activities conducted under the guise of tourism, officials said.

Tourism and Sports Minister Surasak Phancharoenworakul said the proposal reflects current tourism trends, noting that most international visitors stay in Thailand for an average of about nine days.

Currently, travellers from 93 countries can enter Thailand without a visa for stays of up to 60 days.

Under the proposed changes, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will prepare country-specific plans to reduce the permitted duration of visa-free stays, with a 30-day period under consideration for many visitors.

Officials said the policy adjustment was also intended to help authorities tackle illegal business activities and other violations committed by foreigners using tourist exemptions.

Surasak said the revised policy would not damage Thailand’s tourism industry, adding that even visitors from countries with the longest average stays — such as Norway, whose citizens reportedly remain in Thailand for around 21 days on average — would still have sufficient time under the proposed limits.

Thailand is also moving forward with plans to introduce a 300-baht ($8) tourism entry fee, primarily targeting air travellers.

Authorities said revenue from the fee would be used to support tourism development and infrastructure projects.

The proposed visa changes and tourism fee are expected to be submitted for further Cabinet discussion in the coming months.

Thailand remains one of Asia’s most visited tourism destinations, and officials said they were confident the new measures would not slow visitor growth.