Thailand ends 60-day visa-free entry.

According to Khaosod , the Thai Cabinet has approved the abolition of the 60-day visa-free stay program for citizens of more than 90 countries and territories, reverting the policy to the previous 30-day stay limit. This information was announced by Thailand's Minister of Tourism and Sports , Surasak Phancharoenworakul, on May 19th.

Speaking at Government House, Surasak said the Cabinet also agreed to abolish the provisions that allowed for more visa benefits under the current program, restoring the old regulations that had been in place previously.

Chinese tourists were greeted by Thai dancers at Suvarnabhumi International Airport in Bangkok in September 2023. Photo: AP.

Previously, Thailand expanded its 60-day visa-free program to citizens of over 90 countries to boost tourism and economic recovery after the pandemic. Recently, Thai authorities have expressed concerns about some foreigners exploiting the policy to stay long-term or work illegally.

Besides Thailand, Italy, Canada, UAE, France, Germany, Switzerland, and Australia are also tightening their visa exemption policies to increase screening and security for travelers.

Thailand's decision to abolish the 60-day visa-free stay program for citizens of over 90 countries and territories is not expected to significantly impact the majority of Vietnamese tourists, as the average length of stay for Vietnamese visitors in the country is usually only a few days to about a week.

However, the new policy, if approved, could significantly impact groups of tourists who need to stay for an extended period.

Speaking to the media earlier this year, Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow stated that in reality, tourists usually only need 30 days to explore Thailand. Maintaining the 60-day limit could easily create opportunities for those who exploit it to stay longer for improper purposes.

In early May, the Airports of Thailand (AOT) officially announced a 53% increase in the Passenger Service Charge (PSC) for international flights, specifically from 730 baht to 1,120 baht, effective June 20, 2026, following approval from the Thai Ministry of Transport.

The adjustments to the visa waiver policy, along with the increase in airport fees, are expected to significantly impact the tourism industry and reflect Thailand's efforts to balance economic development and national security.

Source: https://tienphong.vn/thai-lan-dung-mien-visa-60-ngay-post1844681.tpo