Thailand May Review Its 60-Day Visa Exemption Rule for Tourists

 

Thailand 60-day visa exemption review 2025

🇹🇭 Thailand May Review Its 60-Day Visa Exemption Rule for Tourists

What if your next Thailand trip gets shorter — not by choice, but by immigration rules?
Thailand’s famous 60-day visa exemption, which millions of travelers depend on, is now under review. Authorities are reconsidering the rule after spotting misuse and potential security risks.

So, what’s happening — and how might this affect your 2025 travel plans? Let’s break it down.

🛬 What Is the 60-Day Visa Exemption?

Introduced in July 2024, the 60-day visa exemption allowed citizens from 93 countries to stay in Thailand twice as long as before — from 30 to 60 days.
It was part of Thailand’s post-pandemic strategy to boost tourism, attract long-stay visitors, and support hotels and local businesses.

The results were immediate: more digital nomads stayed longer, bookings increased, and tourism revenue surged.
But with growth came new challenges.

⚠️ Why Authorities Are Reviewing the Policy

Officials noticed that not all visitors were behaving like tourists.
Some used the visa-free stay to work remotely, trade, or live long-term without the correct visa.
Others engaged in “border runs” — repeatedly exiting and re-entering Thailand to extend their stay indefinitely.

These patterns raised red flags for immigration officers, who also reported security concerns and border strain.
As a result, multiple government bodies — including the Ministries of Foreign Affairs, Interior, and Tourism — are now reassessing the rule.

Their key challenge: how to balance tourism growth with immigration control.

🔍 Possible Changes Under Discussion

While no official decision has been made yet, here are the changes being discussed:

• Reducing visa-free stays from 60 days back to 30 days.

• Limiting re-entries for travelers who make multiple visa runs.

• Tighter airport screenings for repeat or long-stay visitors.

• Encouraging proper visa use, such as the Digital Nomad Visa, Retirement Visa, or Business Visa.

So far, nothing is confirmed — but the review is active, and updates may come soon.

🧳 What Travelers Should Expect Right Now

As of today, the 60-day visa exemption is still valid for all eligible nationalities.
Travelers can enter visa-free and stay up to 60 days.

However, policy changes in Thailand often roll out quickly — sometimes within weeks.
If you’re planning to visit soon or stay long-term, it’s safer to apply for a Tourist Visa (TR) rather than relying solely on the exemption.

✅ Current status: 60 days valid
⚠️ Ongoing review: Changes possible anytime

💡 Why a Complete Ban Is Unlikely

Many travelers fear the exemption might disappear altogether — but that’s highly unlikely.
Tourism contributes nearly 20% of Thailand’s GDP, and a full rollback would impact the economy.

Experts believe the government will fine-tune, not cancel, the policy — possibly shortening stays or tightening eligibility.
In short, expect modifications, not elimination.

🧭 How to Prepare Before Traveling

Here’s how you can stay ready and avoid issues at immigration:

1️⃣ Check official embassy updates before booking flights.
2️⃣ Carry your return ticket and accommodation proof — they’re often required at entry.
3️⃣ Avoid back-to-back visa runs to prevent scrutiny.
4️⃣ Consider the Digital Nomad or Long-Term Visa if you plan to stay or work remotely.
5️⃣ Follow official Thai government channels for the latest updates.

A little preparation today can save you from last-minute surprises tomorrow.

🧩 Final Take

To recap:

• The 60-day visa exemption began in July 2024 for citizens of 93 countries.

• Authorities are now reviewing the rule due to misuse and security concerns.

• Possible outcomes include shorter stays and stricter entry checks.

• The exemption remains active — but changes may come in 2025.

So, if you’re planning a Thailand trip soon, stay informed, travel smart, and always check official sources before flying. Watch Here: