Thailand reduces visa-free stay for 93 countries, including Turkey, to 30 days

In the Southeast Asian nation of Thailand, the visa-free stay period for 93 countries, including Turkey, has been reduced. With a decision taken by the Thai Cabinet today, it was decided to revert the 60-day visa-free stay policy, which had been implemented in 2024 to boost tourism following the pandemic, back to 30 days for the 93 countries, including Turkey.

Authorities cited the misuse of the long-term visa-free entry privilege for illegal activities and the exploitation of the system as the reason for the decision.

Thai Government Spokesperson Rachada Dhanadirek stated in a press release that the current system was being abused by some foreigners, noting that the long-term visa-free entry policy created security vulnerabilities for illegal employment, illicit business activities, and fraud networks. Dhanadirek also announced that immigration controls for entries and exits to Thailand would be tightened in the coming period.

It was also announced that the new regulation would impose restrictions on visa-free entries made through Thailand's land border crossings. Accordingly, under the standard 30-day policy, foreigners will be allowed to enter the country visa-free via land borders a maximum of two times per year.

It was reported that the government reviewed the policy following a recent increase in incidents involving foreign nationals, such as drug trafficking, illegal employment, and unlicensed businesses.

In Thailand, where tourism accounts for more than 10 percent of the gross domestic product, it was announced that the number of foreign tourists in the first quarter of the year fell by 3.4 percent compared to the same period last year. Despite the decline, officials stated that the target of 33.5 million foreign tourists set for this year remains unchanged.

The date on which the new visa regulations will come into effect is expected to be announced in the coming days.

News Source: 12punto