Thailand is preparing to halve the visa-free stay period for tourists from 93 countries, reducing it from 60 to 30 days, due to increasing concerns over foreign nationals engaging in illegal business operations and criminal activities.
Proposal to Cabinet
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sihasak Phuangketkaeow, is set to submit a proposal to the cabinet that also includes a review of eligibility criteria for investment visas, long-term residency permits, student visas, and digital nomad schemes.
Reasons Behind the Move
The move comes amid mounting pressure over allegations that foreigners, particularly Russians and Chinese, are illegally operating businesses, often by registering companies under Thai nominees to circumvent foreign ownership laws. This has led to local resentment.
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has stressed the need to find a balance between tourism revenue and addressing illegal activities, stating that "free visas are not about unconditional entry." He has ordered crackdowns in tourist hotspots like Phuket and Koh Phangan.
Security Concerns
Security concerns have heightened following the recent arrest of a Chinese national in Pattaya who was allegedly found with military-grade weapons. Authorities have also charged 33 foreign nationals in Phuket for allegedly violating Thailand’s foreign business laws.
The proposed changes aim to curb illegal activities while maintaining Thailand's appeal as a tourist destination. The cabinet is expected to deliberate on the proposal in the coming weeks.
