Thailand to halve visa-free stays for dozens of countries, including Singapore

Thailand is sharply shortening visa-free stays for tourists from dozens of countries, saying the change will help curb crimes involving foreign nationals. From Sept. 15, visitors from 60 countries and territories will be allowed to stay without a visa for 30 days, half the current limit.

The affected list includes Singapore, China, the United States and 27 European Union countries. Travellers from the Schengen area, India and several South American countries currently qualify for stays of up to 60 days under Thailand’s tourism scheme, which covers more than 90 countries and territories.

The decision follows a series of arrests involving foreigners accused of drug offences, sex trafficking and running businesses such as hotels and schools without the required permits. Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow said the shorter stays formed part of a crackdown on people abusing the visa system to commit crimes in Thailand.

Travellers will be able to extend their stay once, at the discretion of an immigration officer. The government approved the measure in May, according to a government spokeswoman cited by AFP.

The new arrangement will not affect everyone in the same way. Visitors from Peru, Brazil and South Korea will receive 90-day visa-free stays, an increase from the previous 60-day limit. The status of about 20 other countries remained unclear, with a foreign ministry official declining to comment.

Thailand has recorded 20.9 million foreign tourists since the beginning of the year, official figures showed. That total is 3% lower than during the same period in 2025, as authorities adjust entry rules in a country where tourism remains vital to the economy.