New regulation due to fraud: Thailand shortens vacation stays

Bangkok (Thailand) – Anyone traveling to Thailand in the future will have to leave after 30 days. The kingdom is abolishing the 60-day visa-free entry for tourists that was introduced just two years ago.

The government decided to return to the old ways Entry rules. In the future, visitors from 54 countries, including Germany, Austria and Switzerland, will only be allowed to stay in the country for 30 days without a visa. This was reported by the Bangkok Post, citing the government.

The 60-day rule was introduced in July 2024 to stimulate the important tourism sector after the corona pandemic. However, according to the government, the relaxation led to problems. Authorities complained about increasing cases of Fraud. Foreigners would use the long stay opportunities to do business illegally or to live permanently in the country.

When do the new rules apply?

Tourism Minister Surasak Phancharoenworakul said the decision would now be sent to those responsible Authorities forwarded. An exact date for the entry into force was not initially known. However, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the changes will take effect 15 days after publication in the Thai legal gazette.

Travelers who are already in Thailand or who enter the country before the new rules come into force, can stay in the country until their previous residence permit expires. This became known after the cabinet meeting on Tuesday evening (local time).

Fewer tourists in Thailand

Thailand has been recording weaker tourist numbers for months. According to official information, international arrivals through mid-May were 3.3 percent below the previous year’s level. The government also expects a significant decline in the number of visitors for the year as a whole: 33 million foreign tourists came in 2025 Vacation in Thailand, only 32 million are expected this year.

The decline is particularly noticeable among Chinese visitors, traditionally the country’s most important tourist group. Industry representatives generally attribute the weaker interest to increased travel costs and geopolitical tensions.