Thailand is planning to reduce its visa-free stay period for tourists from 93 countries from 60 days to 30 days. The move will also affect travellers from India, who currently enjoy longer visa-free stays in the country.

According to Thai authorities, the decision comes after concerns about some foreigners misusing long tourist stays for illegal business activities, scams, and unauthorised work. Thailand’s Foreign Minister, Sihasak Phuangketkaeow, said the proposal will soon be sent to the Cabinet for approval. However, officials have not yet confirmed when the new rule will officially begin.

Why Thailand Is Changing the Visa Rules

Thailand introduced the 60-day visa-free stay in July 2024 to boost tourism after the pandemic. The longer stay option helped attract more travellers, especially people who preferred slow travel, remote work, and long vacations.

Popular tourist destinations like :

  • Bangkok
  • Phuket
  • Pattaya
  • Chiang Mai

    • saw a rise in international visitors.

    But Thai officials now say some people were taking advantage of the relaxed rules by staying in the country for reasons other than tourism. Because of this, authorities want stricter checks on visitors and visa categories.

    Tourist Numbers Show Mixed Results

    Tourism is one of Thailand’s biggest sources of income. Before the pandemic, the country welcomed nearly 40 million foreign visitors in 2019.

    However, recent numbers show tourism growth has slowed slightly. Between January 1 and May 10, 2026, Thailand received around 12.4 million international tourists, which is about 3.43% lower compared to the same period last year.

    Officials believe tightening visa rules may help control misuse while still allowing genuine tourists to visit the country.

    What This Means for Indian Travellers

    For most Indian tourists visiting Thailand for holidays, shopping, beaches, or sightseeing, a 30-day stay is usually enough.

    But the change may affect :

  • Long-stay travellers
  • Digital nomads
  • Remote workers
  • People on workations
  • Backpackers planning extended trips

    • Many Indians have recently started spending longer periods in Thailand because of affordable living costs, good internet connectivity, and easy travel options. Cities like Bangkok and Chiang Mai became popular among remote workers and freelancers after work-from-home culture increased globally.

    Earlier, travellers could comfortably plan long two-month stays across islands, cafes, co-working spaces, and tourist destinations. Under the new rules, visitors may now need to monitor their stay duration more carefully.

    Can Travellers Extend Their Stay?

    Thailand’s Foreign Ministry has hinted that tourists may still be able to apply for a stay extension after entering the country. This extension would depend on immigration approval.

    If the extension process remains simple, it could help travellers who want to stay beyond 30 days. However, more details are expected once the government officially announces the final rules.

    For now, Indian travellers planning long stays in Thailand should keep checking official updates before booking extended trips.

    Stay updated with global visa rules and travel advice on Visabud