Thailand is preparing to reduce the maximum visa-free stay for eligible foreign visitors from sixty days to thirty days, as authorities move to strengthen immigration oversight and address emerging security concerns.

Senior officials confirmed that the change is under active consideration as part of a wider review of entry regulations introduced during the tourism recovery period.

The sixty-day visa exemption, expanded to stimulate travel and economic activity, had been welcomed by visitors and the hospitality sector.

However, authorities now say adjustments are necessary to ensure that the system remains aligned with national security priorities and long-term migration management.

The revised framework would apply to travellers from countries currently granted visa-exempt access.

Officials indicated that the change is designed to prevent misuse of extended stays and to ensure that short-term entry schemes are not used for unauthorized work or other activities inconsistent with tourist status.

Thailand’s government emphasized that the measure is a recalibration rather than a reversal of its open and welcoming tourism policy.

The country continues to promote international travel through improved airport infrastructure, digital arrival systems and streamlined visa processing for long-term visitors, business travellers and retirees.

Industry representatives acknowledged that while the sixty-day period provided flexibility, most leisure travellers stay well under one month.

Authorities have therefore assessed that reducing the visa-free allowance to thirty days is unlikely to significantly affect mainstream tourism flows, while improving compliance and oversight.

The proposed change comes amid broader efforts to modernize border management, including enhanced data-sharing systems and closer coordination between immigration, security and tourism agencies.

Officials maintain that maintaining a secure and transparent entry process strengthens Thailand’s international reputation and supports sustainable tourism growth.

Further details on implementation timelines are expected following formal regulatory approval.

Until then, the current visa exemption period remains in effect.