By Sherif Lawal
Thailand has announced a major tightening of its visa-free entry rules, reducing permitted stays for tourists from more than 90 countries as part of a crackdown on foreign-linked crime.
Under the revised policy approved by the cabinet, most eligible travellers will now be granted stays of up to 30 days, while some nationalities may be limited to 15 days.
The move affects visitors from regions including Europe’s Schengen area, the United States, Israel and several South American countries, all previously allowed up to 60 days visa-free entry.
Officials say the change follows a recent rise in high-profile cases involving drug offences, trafficking, and foreigners running businesses without proper permits.
Tourism remains vital to Thailand’s economy, though arrivals have yet to fully recover to pre-Covid levels, prompting efforts to balance openness with tighter security measures.
Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow stressed the policy is not targeted at specific countries, but at individuals abusing visa rules to commit crimes.
Implementation begins immediately nationwide.
