Australia and travellers from 92 other countries will no longer enjoy a 60-day visa-free stay in Thailand, following new regulations approved by the Thai foreign ministry. The changes, announced this week, affect nations including the United Kingdom, New Zealand, Japan, and the United States.
Background of the 60-Day Visa Exemption
The 60-day visa exemption was introduced in July 2024 as a measure to revitalise Thailand's tourism sector after the economic downturn caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. However, Tourism and Sports Minister Surasak Phancharoenworakul confirmed that the policy would be reversed, reverting to the previous 30-day cap on visa-free stays.
Official Statement
Minister Surasak stated, "When the 60-day visa-free scheme for tourists from 93 countries and territories is cancelled, each country will return to its previous visa arrangement. In most cases, this means a 30-day visa-free stay, which is sufficient for the majority of tourists, whose average stay in Thailand is no more than nine days." It is understood that tourists can extend their stay by an additional 30 days by visiting an immigration office in Thailand.
Public Reaction
Australians, who frequently visit Thailand, expressed their disappointment online. One traveller commented, "So flights are now more expensive than ever. Giving tourists 60 days instead of 30 days is better value for their expensive flight." Another added, "Just the signal it sends, that tourists are a burden and a pain, is enough for people to look for other destinations." A third noted, "It will put off people who find it difficult to go online and obtain a visa if they want to stay longer than a month, which many older people do."
Impact on Tourism
According to Australia's Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, approximately 800,000 Australians visit Thailand annually for tourism and business. The visa change is part of a broader crackdown on transnational crime, as explained by Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow. He emphasised that no specific country is targeted, only individuals involved in illicit activities.
Special Arrangements
The Thai government is also reviewing a potential 15-day visa-free arrangement for Indian tourists, who represent one of Thailand's top three tourism markets. Under the previous system, Indian travellers required a Visa on Arrival. Additionally, the mutual 60-day visa-free agreement between Thailand and South Korea remains in place, as does the 30-day reciprocal arrangement with China, introduced in March 2024.
