Thailand’s caretaker government is considering a reduction of the 60‑day visa‑free stay period, following numerous complaints that foreigners have been exploiting the system to engage in illegal activities or exploit local residents, according to Foreign Affairs Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow.
Reduction for 60 days to 30 days.
The minister made the comment on Wednesday while visiting Phuket, where tourism operators have been particularly vocal about the downside of the system originally intended to promote tourism.
The complainants in Phuket have also criticised a minimum requirement of a 3‑million‑baht investment in real estate to qualify a foreigner for a long‑stay visa. They say the figure is too low and could attract “non‑quality” visitors who might engage in illegal activities, as well as drive up property prices, making housing less affordable for local residents.
Mr Sihasak said the government was preparing to review the appropriateness of the visa measures, particularly the visa‑free scheme.
The visa‑free programme, which allows foreigners from 93 countries to stay in Thailand for up to 60 days, began in mid‑2024 during the administration of Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin as part of efforts to stimulate tourism.
The 60‑day period may be too long, as most visitors stay only 15-30 days on average, Mr Sihasak said.
Amid concerns over transnational crime, he emphasised that the measure must be accompanied by comprehensive security safeguards to prevent individuals with malicious intentions from using Thailand as a base for illegal activities.
A balance between boosting tourism and ensuring public safety must be maintained to protect the country in the long run, the minister said.
Foreign Affairs Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow speaks to reporters during his visit to Phuket on Wednesday. (Photo: Achadthaya Chuenniran)
According to the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, tourism operators proposed a rule change last year, and the ministry agreed that shortening the stay period would not affect tourism.
The caretaker government, led by Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul of the Bhumjaithai Party — which won the Feb 8 election — has the authority to approve the change, as the new government has not yet been formed.
Source: Bangkok Post