The Thai Cabinet has officially approved the cancellation of its 60 day visa free entry programme for travellers from 93 countries and territories. This strategic decision reverses a highly relaxed policy introduced in July 2024 to stimulate post pandemic tourism. Under the newly approved guidelines, visitors from major countries including Australia, Singapore, and the United States will see their permitted stay shortened back to a 30 day window. 

Government officials state the tighter rules are designed to prevent foreign nationals from abusing the visa exemption system. Authorities argue the previous 60 day extension was increasingly exploited by international criminal networks and individuals engaging in illegal employment reserved for Thai citizens. Studies also revealed that the policy shift would not heavily impact genuine holidaymakers, as the average tourist stay in Thailand is just over nine days.

However, this tougher stance arrives at a difficult time for the local economy, as tourism accounts for roughly one fifth of the nation's GDP. Due to escalating Middle East conflicts driving up fuel costs and slowing down long haul arrivals, Thailand's economic planning agency has cut its annual foreign visitor forecast from 35 million down to 32 million. Relevant agencies are currently coordinating to review future entry conditions on a country by country basis.