Thailand tightens visa rules for tourists, citing crime by foreigners
Thailand has announced a reduction in the visa-free stay period for tourists from over 90 countries, cutting it from 60 days to either 30 or 15 days. This decision aims to address concerns about crimes committed by foreign nationals in the country. The specific duration will vary by country, and the timeline for implementation remains unclear.
- ▪Thailand's cabinet approved a reduction in the visa-free stay period for tourists from 60 days to 30 or 15 days.
- ▪The changes are part of a crackdown on crimes committed by foreigners, not targeting specific countries.
- ▪Tourists will be able to renew their visas once, but must explain their reasons for an extended stay.
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Thailand cuts visa-free stay period for more than 90 countries, citing crimes by foreignersBy Angelica Silva with wiresTopic:Travel and TourismWed 20 May 2026 at 4:43pmWed 20 May 2026 at 4:43pmWed 20 May 2026 at 4:43pmThe new changes will end Thailand's 60-day visa-free stay for tourists from 93 countries. (Reuters: Chalinee Thirasupa)In shortThailand's cabinet on Tuesday approved measures to reduce the length of visa-free stays for tourists from more than 90 countries from 60 days down to 30 or 15 days.Officials said Thailand was not targeting any specific country, but rather individuals abusing the visa system by committing crimes in the country.What's next?The timeline for when the changes would come into effect is unclear.
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Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at ABC News (Australia).