Cambodia has reduced the visa stay for Thai nationals to seven days, prompting Thailand to implement reciprocal restrictions and consider cutting off electricity and internet services to certain Cambodian regions, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Nikorndej Balankura, spokesperson for the ministry, told reporters on Monday that Cambodia was the first to shorten visa validity for Thai visitors.
Thai nationals entering Cambodia by land will now be allowed to stay for only seven days, down from the previous 14 days for passport holders and 15 days for those using border passes.
In response, Thailand has slashed the stay period for Cambodian visitors arriving by land. Passport holders will now receive seven-day stays instead of 60, while those entering with border passes will also see their stay cut to seven days from 15.
However, air travel allowances remain more lenient. Cambodian travellers arriving in Thailand by air may still stay for up to 60 days.
Meanwhile, Cambodia is set to increase the stay for Thai air travellers from 14 to 60 days starting Tuesday, as previously planned.
Mr. Nikorndej, who also serves as director-general of the Department of Information, said there is no fixed timeframe for how long the visa restrictions will remain in place.
“Both sides have not set how long this will continue. I think that both can discuss the extension when the situation improves. At this time, the issue is not a priority,” he said.
He also revealed that Thai security agencies would propose to the National Security Council a suspension of electricity and internet services currently supplied to areas in Cambodia known for hosting casinos and scam operations.
Further proposals include stricter control of goods that could be exploited for technological misuse or transnational crimes within Cambodian territory.
Despite rising tensions, the Foreign Ministry expressed hope that both nations would pursue peaceful and lasting solutions. The bilateral Joint Boundary Committee is scheduled to meet in five days to discuss ongoing issues.
