Thailand cancels 60-day visa waiver for tourists

The 60-day rule was introduced in July 2024 to boost the important tourism sector following the coronavirus pandemic. However, according to the government, the relaxation also led to problems. Authorities complained of an increasing number of cases of foreigners using the long residency options to do business illegally or live in the country permanently.

When do the new rules apply?

Tourism Minister Surasak Phancharoenworakul said that the decision would now be forwarded to the relevant authorities. An exact date for the entry into force was not initially announced. However, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the changes will come into effect 15 days after publication in the Thai Official Gazette.

However, travelers who are already in Thailand or who enter the country before the new rules come into force will be allowed to remain in the country until their previous residence permit expires. This was announced after the cabinet meeting on Tuesday evening (local time).

Tourist numbers on the decline

Thailand has been recording weaker tourist numbers for months. According to official figures, international arrivals up to mid-May were 3.3 percent below the previous year's level. The government is also expecting a significant decline in visitor numbers for the year as a whole: While 33 million foreign visitors came in 2025, only 32 million are expected this year.

The decline in Chinese visitors - traditionally the country's most important tourist group - is particularly significant. Industry representatives generally attribute the weaker interest to increased travel costs and geopolitical tensions. Higher flight prices as a result of the crisis surrounding Iran are also weighing on the tourism sector.