Tourists on the beach in Thailand.Image: keystone
May 20, 2026, 07:34May 20, 2026, 07:34
Bad news for Thailand fans: The kingdom is abolishing the 60-day visa-free entry for tourists that was introduced just two years ago. The cabinet decided to return to the previous entry rules. In the future, visitors from 54 countries – including Germany, Austria and Switzerland – will only be allowed to stay in the country for 30 days without a visa, the Bangkok Post newspaper reported, citing the government.
The 60-day rule was introduced in July 2024 to stimulate the important tourism sector after the corona pandemic. However, according to the government, the easing also led to problems. Authorities complained about increasing cases of foreigners who had taken advantage of the long stay opportunities to conduct business illegally or to live permanently in the country.
When do the new rules apply?
Tourism Minister Surasak Phancharoenworakul said the decision would now be forwarded to the relevant authorities. An exact date for the entry into force was not initially known. However, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the changes will take effect 15 days after publication in the Thai legal gazette.
Travelers who are already in Thailand or who enter Thailand before the new rules come into force are allowed to stay in the country until their previous residence permit expires. This became known after the cabinet meeting on Tuesday evening (local time).
Tourist numbers are declining
Thailand has been recording weaker tourist numbers for months. According to official information, international arrivals through mid-May were 3.3 percent below the previous year’s level. The government also expects a significant decline in the number of visitors for the year as a whole: While there were 33 million foreign visitors in 2025, only 32 million are expected this year.
The decline is particularly noticeable among Chinese visitors – traditionally the country’s most important tourist group. Industry representatives generally attribute the weaker interest to increased travel costs and geopolitical tensions. Higher flight prices as a result of the crisis surrounding Iran are also putting a strain on the tourism sector. (sda/dpa)