Bangkok– The Tourism and Sports Ministry of Thailand is reportedly considering a change to its visa policy for Chinese visitors, one of the country’s largest tourist demographics. According to sources within the ministry, the current 90-day visa extension period could be slashed to just 30 days, aligning it more closely with the average length of stay for travelers from China.
The proposed adjustment aims to streamline immigration processes and better reflect the travel patterns of Chinese tourists, say Thai officials. In 2019, before the global pandemic disrupted international travel, Chinese visitors accounted for over 11 million arrivals, making up nearly 27% of Thailand’s total 39.8 million tourists that year, according to data from the Ministry of Tourism and Sports. While numbers dropped sharply during the COVID-19 years, the recovery has been robust, with 2024 seeing a resurgence of Chinese travelers thanks to relaxed visa policies and targeted marketing campaigns.
A ministry spokesperson explained that the change is under consideration following observations that most Chinese tourists spend far less than 90 days in the country. “Our data shows that the average stay for Chinese visitors is typically between two to three weeks,” the spokesperson said. “Reducing the extension period to 30 days would better match their travel behavior while maintaining Thailand’s appeal as a flexible and welcoming destination.”
The move comes as Thailand continues to balance its post-pandemic tourism recovery with administrative efficiency. Since 2023, the government has rolled out various initiatives to lure back international visitors, including visa-free entry for Chinese nationals for stays of up to 30 days, a policy introduced in September of that year and extended into 2025. The potential reduction in the extension period would apply to those seeking to prolong their visits beyond the initial visa-free window or other short-term visa categories.
Industry experts have mixed reactions to the proposal. Some argue it could simplify overstays and reduce bureaucratic strain, while others worry it might deter longer-term visitors, such as digital nomads or retirees from China, who have increasingly explored Thailand as a temporary base. “Thirty days is sufficient for most leisure travelers, but we’ve seen growing interest from Chinese professionals and seasonal residents who prefer the 90-day option,” noted a representative from the Tourism Authority of Thailand.
The ministry has yet to finalize the decision, with public consultations and further data analysis expected in the coming weeks. If implemented, the change could take effect as early as mid-2025, pending approval from immigration authorities and the cabinet.
Thailand’s tourism sector, a vital economic driver contributing roughly 12-15% to the nation’s GDP, remains heavily reliant on Chinese visitors. As the country competes with regional rivals like Vietnam and Malaysia for the same market, this visa tweak could signal a broader strategy to refine—not restrict—access for its top tourist demographic.
Thai officials also have stated that this proposed change has nothing to do with alleged increase of crimes or Chinese nationals working illegally.
