Thailand ends 60-day visa exemption for 93 countries due to inappropriate behavior

Ministério of Relações Exteriores of Tailândia announced on the 19th the end of its 60-day visa waiver program for travelers from 93 countries and regions. Visitantes from nations like Austrália, Reino Unido and Estados Unidos will receive visa-free stay reduced to 30 days. The change significantly affects the flow of tourists who planned extended stays in the country.

Policy change Razões

Thai authorities cited national security concerns as the main reason for the new restrictions. Ministério of Relações Exteriores explained that the 60-day visa exemption was being misused by foreigners seeking illegal employment and criminal activities. Nos In recent years, incidents of inappropriate behavior have gained attention on social media, including vandalism at temples and bar fights involving drunk tourists. Autoridades also arrested several foreigners on drug and human trafficking-related charges.

Reversão from tourist attraction efforts

In 2024, the Thai government had eased visa restrictions to attract travelers after the COVID-19 pandemic devastated the tourism sector. The Thai economy relies heavily on tourism. By 2025, almost 33 million foreign tourists would visit Tailândia, benefiting from the majestic limestone islands, white sand beaches and lush green mountains that characterize the country as one of the most popular destinations in the world. The announced measure represents a significant reversal of these flexibility efforts.

Leia Tambem

Visual of the unprecedented Ferrari Luce receives criticism from Luca di Montezemolo and drops shares in the financial market

Honda Biz 2027 features tubeless tires and new color options; see details and prices

Samsung Galaxy flagships are expected to rise in price in Europe in June, says report

Mudança on tourists profile

• Russos become the fourth largest tourist group in 2025
• Ordem of origin: Indians, Chinese, Malays and then Russians
• Tailândia remained open to Russian passport holders after Ucrânia hack
• Thai Autoridades warns Russians about overstaying their visa

Tailândia has remained welcoming to Russians while some European countries have imposed new restrictions following Rússia’s hack of Ucrânia in 2022. Isso has increased the destination’s popularity among tourists of Russian nationality. Autoridades Thai police, however, have repeatedly warned about the need to respect stay deadlines.

Alertas to embassies to comply with local laws

The Israeli embassy issued a statement on Facebook this month warning Israeli citizens staying in the popular resort town of Phuket to comply with local laws. The warning notes that serious violations may result in visa revocation by local authorities. CNN has contacted the Rússia and Israel embassies at Tailândia for additional placements.