Thailand Unveils Plan to Reduce Visa-Free Stay Duration to 30 Days
22 Mar, 2025
Thailand is set to reduce the duration of visa-free stays for many international travellers starting in April 2025. Under the new regulation, visitors from 64 countries, including many from Europe, the United States, and other popular tourist destinations, will only be permitted to stay in Thailand for 30 days without a visa, down from the current 45-day period. This decision is part of Thailand’s broader effort to better manage tourism and address concerns about overcrowding in some of its most popular destinations.
The new rule is expected to affect those who are traveling to Thailand for longer periods, as they will now need to apply for a visa or seek an extension of their stay under the existing visa conditions. Tourists planning to stay longer than 30 days will have to be more proactive in planning their trip and considering their visa options ahead of time. However, this change will have little impact on short-term tourists, as most people who visit Thailand for vacations tend to stay within the current 30-day limit.
While the new visa-free limit applies to most foreign nationals, there are some exceptions. For instance, citizens of certain countries, like China, will still have access to a longer stay under separate agreements. Thailand's authorities are aiming to strike a balance between encouraging tourism and ensuring that the influx of visitors doesn’t put excessive pressure on the country’s resources, infrastructure, and environment.
The decision to reduce the visa-free stay comes as part of Thailand’s ongoing efforts to manage its tourism sector more sustainably. The Thai government has been working to control the number of tourists arriving annually, particularly in light of the strains that over-tourism has placed on local communities, ecosystems, and historical sites. With tourism being a major contributor to the economy, Thailand is looking for ways to strike a balance between welcoming tourists and preserving the natural and cultural heritage of the country.
For those planning a longer stay in Thailand, it is advisable to familiarize themselves with the visa application process and extension procedures well in advance. As the new rules approach, it is expected that there will be an increase in demand for tourist visas, so it’s important to make necessary arrangements early to avoid any issues. Overall, the new regulations reflect Thailand’s shift toward more sustainable and managed tourism, which will shape the travel experience for many visitors starting in 2025.