Thailand’s caretaker government is weighing changes to the 60-day visa-free entry scheme amid mounting criticism that the policy has been abused by some foreign visitors, Foreign Affairs Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow said this week.
Speaking during a visit to Phuket on Wednesday, Mr Sihasak acknowledged growing concern among tourism operators who argue that the visa-free arrangement, while designed to encourage travel, has also created unintended problems.
Local stakeholders have complained that certain foreigners are misusing the extended stay to conduct illegal activities or take advantage of residents.
Business groups in Phuket have also voiced opposition to existing long-stay visa rules, particularly the minimum property investment threshold of three million baht.
They argue the amount is too low, potentially attracting what they describe as “low-quality” investors, fuelling unlawful behaviour and pushing up housing prices beyond the reach of locals.
Mr Sihasak said authorities were preparing a broad review of current visa policies, with particular focus on whether the 60-day visa-free period remains appropriate.
He noted that most tourists typically stay in the country for only two to four weeks, raising questions about the necessity of such a lengthy allowance.
The visa-free scheme, which permits citizens of 93 countries to remain in Thailand for up to 60 days, was introduced in mid-2024 under the government of former prime minister Srettha Thavisin as part of efforts to revive tourism.
Against a backdrop of rising concerns over cross-border crime, the foreign minister stressed that any visa policy must be paired with robust security measures to prevent Thailand from being used as a base for illicit operations.
Maintaining a balance between economic benefits from tourism and long-term public safety was essential, he said.
Data from the Ministry of Tourism and Sports show that industry operators proposed shortening the visa-free stay as early as last year, with officials concluding that a reduction would be unlikely to deter visitors.
The caretaker government, currently headed by Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul of the Bhumjaithai Party, retains the authority to approve any amendments while the formation of a new administration remains pending following the February 8 election.
