The 60-day visa-free entry policy, which was intended to boost tourism recovery, is now under review as authorities weigh its economic benefits against security concerns. Tailored policy over blanket ruleSanga Ruangwattanakul, president of the Khao San Road Business Association, backs tightening the visa-free stay policy, saying the current scheme makes entry too easy, without adequate screening. However, she said visa-free entry itself is not a new policy and has been in place for years, with recent changes mainly involving the expansion to more countries. The issue is not the visa-free scheme itself, she said, adding the problem of illegal activities should be addressed through stricter screening measures rather than blanket restrictions. Pol Maj Gen Choengron backed reducing the visa-free stay to 30 days, saying it would help reduce incentives for misuse.

Source: Bangkok Post March 28, 2026 23:03 UTC