Thailand scraps 60-day visa exemption for tourists

Thailand is rolling back a popular travel perk, reverting to shorter visa-free stays for tourists. The cabinet has decided to end the 60-day visa-free entry period that was introduced only two years ago. Starting soon, travelers from 54 nations, encompassing key European markets like Austria, Germany, and Switzerland, will once again be limited to a 30-day visa-free stay.

This move comes as a disappointment to many international travelers who had come to appreciate the extended period for exploring the Kingdom. The previous policy was seen as a significant boost to tourism, allowing visitors more time to experience Thailand's diverse attractions. The reversal suggests a shift in the government's tourism strategy or perhaps a response to concerns not fully detailed in the initial reports.

For the tourism industry, which is a vital pillar of Thailand's economy, this change could have notable implications. While the exact reasons for the reversal are still being analyzed, it marks a significant adjustment for potential visitors planning their trips. The Bangkok Post, citing government sources, reported on this decision, indicating a return to the established norms that governed international arrivals prior to the recent policy change.