Thailand has ended its 60-day visa-free stay policy for travellers from more than 90 countries, including India, in a move aimed at tightening security checks and tackling misuse of tourist visas.
The decision
marks a major shift in the country’s post-pandemic tourism strategy and is expected to affect thousands of Indian tourists planning longer holidays in the Southeast Asian nation.
The Thai government announced on Tuesday that entry rules would now return to original bilateral agreements for each country. Authorities said the change was necessary to improve security screening, prevent visa overstays and crack down on illegal business activities carried out by some foreign nationals using long tourist stays.
In a statement shared on X, the government said the Visa Policy Committee would review arrangements for each country separately.
“Thailand is scrapping its 60-day visa-free policy for 90+ nations. Entry rules will revert to original bilateral terms — varying by passport. Reason: tighter security screening and cracking down on overstays. The Visa Policy Committee will review each country individually,” Thailand’s Government Public Relations Department wrote.
Thailand had introduced the 60-day visa-free scheme in July 2024 as part of a major push to revive tourism after the pandemic. The policy attracted millions of visitors, but officials say it also created problems. Reports from tourist hotspots such as Phuket suggested some foreigners were using extended tourist stays to run unauthorised businesses in sectors reserved for Thai citizens.
What Changes For Indian Travellers?
For Indian travellers, the policy change is expected to mean a return to the earlier 30-day visa-free stay arrangement. Under the likely new policy, visitors will initially be allowed to stay for 30 days instead of 60. Those wishing to remain longer can apply for a further 30-day extension through a Thai immigration office by paying an extension fee.
Thailand has also introduced the Thailand Digital Arrival Card system, replacing paper immigration forms. Authorities say the digital platform will help monitor repeated short-term entries more closely.
Tourism contributes more than 10 per cent to Thailand’s economy, though visitor numbers are still below pre-pandemic levels.
