BANGKOK —
The Thai Cabinet has approved the cancellation of the 60-day visa-free entry scheme for more than 90 countries, reverting to the previous visa regulations. The decision, announced on May 19, 2026, by Tourism and Sports Minister Surasak Phancharoenworakul, marks a big shift in Thailand’s immigration policy. Importantly, the exact dates of implementation were not made clear, with the Tourism minister only saying all relevant agencies and Immigration would be informed of the decision.
Under the new resolution, all countries previously granted 60-day visa-free entry will now return to their original visa categories, which for most visitors means a 30-day stay. The Cabinet also decided to revoke multiple visa options for certain countries, streamlining the system back to its earlier framework.
Minister Surasak explained that the next step will involve notifying relevant agencies of the change, while the Visa Policy Committee will reassess visa arrangements on a country-by-country basis. The committee is expected to weigh factors of national security and economic impact before proposing new visa rules.
For now, travelers from the affected countries should expect to follow the prior entry regulations, with shorter stays permitted under the standard visa exemption program. The government stated that the review process will determine which nations may qualify for extended stays in the future, but until then, the 30-day limit will apply.
The decision to revoke the sixty day visa is due to concerns about foreigners abusing the time period to illegally work and become involved in crime, drugs, scam centers, and other ongoing issues. Additionally, the tourism ministry has stated that the average true tourist coming to Thailand stays far under thirty days and so the thirty day window is more than appropriate. Extensions and longer visas may still be available through Immigration and/or relevant consulates and embassies.
For the original version of this article, please visit The Pattaya News.
