Australians will no longer be able to enjoy a 60-day stay in Thailand without a visa under new rules approved this week by the Thai government.
Visitors from more than 90 countries, including the UK, Germany, China, the United States, India, Japan and South Korea, have been able to enter Thailand for up to 60 days without a visa since July 2024.
The changes will largely revert to the previous 30-day cap on visa-free stays, although Thailand’s foreign ministry said some countries may receive shorter or longer visa exemptions depending on reciprocal agreements.
The Bangkok Post reported Australia would return to the 30-day arrangement.
Tourists will still be able to extend their stay once through Thailand’s immigration system by visiting a local immigration office, according to a government spokeswoman speaking to Agence France-Presse.
Thai authorities say the tougher rules are aimed at addressing growing concerns about the misuse of extended visa-free stays and the involvement of some foreign nationals in criminal activity.
A recent series of high-profile arrests involving foreigners has included alleged offences linked to drugs, sex trafficking and the operation of businesses such as hotels, bars and schools without the required permits.
Thai officials believe the longer visa-free period created opportunities for some individuals to effectively live and work in the country without proper visas.
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul said returning to the 30-day visa-free period was “more suitable for the current situation, both in terms of the economy and national security.”
Thailand has increasingly focused on tightening border controls and immigration enforcement amid concerns about transnational crime networks operating across Southeast Asia.
Thai foreign minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow said the reduction in visa-free stays formed part of a broader crackdown on organised criminal activity and abuse of Thailand’s immigration system.
He stressed that Thailand was not targeting any specific nationality, but rather individuals who use tourist exemptions to commit crimes or operate illegally in the country.
Thailand remains one of the most popular overseas destinations for Australians, according to Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) data, with strong demand for travel to Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai and Koh Samui.
Airlines continue to operate frequent direct flights between Australia and Thailand from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth.
The revised visa settings also come as Thailand introduces additional border monitoring measures.
International visitors are now required to complete a digital arrival card before entering the country, part of efforts to improve immigration tracking and security screening.
— With additional reporting by Agence France-Presse.
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