(Photo: supplied/Achadthaya Chuenniran)Thailand’s caretaker government is considering a reduction of the 60‑day visa‑free stay period, following numerous complaints that foreigners have been exploiting the system to engage in illegal activities or exploit local residents, according to Foreign Affairs Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow. Mr Sihasak said the government was preparing to review the appropriateness of the visa measures, particularly the visa‑free scheme. The 60‑day period may be too long, as most visitors stay only 15-30 days on average, Mr Sihasak said. Foreign Affairs Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow speaks to reporters during his visit to Phuket on Wednesday. (Photo: Achadthaya Chuenniran)According to the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, tourism operators proposed a rule change last year, and the ministry agreed that shortening the stay period would not affect tourism.

Source: Bangkok Post February 18, 2026 12:36 UTC