Thailand Reduces Visa-Free Stay Period: Shorter Trips Ahead for Tourists

The Thai government is set to introduce a new change for travelers. Starting in 2025, Thailand’s visa-free stay for Indians may be limited to 30 days. This new rule is meant to curb visa misuse. Let’s cover everything about the potential Thailand visa-free stay reduction and how it will change travel for Indians. 

Note: The change is in the proposal stage. 

Thailand’s Visa Free Stay To Be Capped at 30 Days

Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong has announced plans to reduce the visa-free stay period for tourists from 60 days to 30 days. This initiative will impact 93 countries, including India, that enjoy visa-free travel to Thailand. 

Indians are also required to complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) to enter. This arrival card is cost-free.

Also Read: Is Thailand Safe to Visit? Honest Travel Safety Guide 

Why is Thailand Reducing the Visa-Free Stay?

Thailand is reducing the visa-free stay duration to curb illicit business activities, visa misuse, and prevent overstaying. 

What Would a Reduction Mean for Travelers?

Travelers seeking a long-stay duration will need to opt for either a short-stay visa (valid for 3 or 6 months) or a long-stay visa (valid for up to 5 years) to enter Thailand. This means an increase in visa costs and potential flight costs for re-entering. 

How Would Travelers Adjust?

• Shorter Trip Planning: Many will condense itineraries to fit within 30 days.
• Consider Visas: Those seeking longer stays will apply for a tourist visa (60 days, extendable to 90 days).
• Digital Nomads Affected: Remote workers may switch to countries that offer longer visa-free stays. 
• Increased Scrutiny: Stricter surveillance, documentation, and potential financial checks at immigration.

Who is Affected by This Policy Change?

Citizens from 93 countries and territories, including India, who are eligible for a 60-day visa-free stay, will be affected by this policy change. Some potential long-stay tourists, digital nomads, and freelancers may need to consider countries with more favorable visa conditions.

How to Plan Your Trip Under the New Policy?

• Check Official Sources: Always visit the official Thai Embassy or Consulate website in your country to stay updated before planning your trip to Thailand. Policy changes can occur.

• Plan Accordingly: Book your stay and flights based on the confirmed visa-free period or the duration of your approved visa. If the visa-free stay is 30 days, ensure your initial travel plans do not exceed this.

• Consider Visa Extensions: If you wish to stay longer than your initial visa-free period, opt for tourist visas. Indians are eligible for single and multiple-entry visas. 

• Secure Travel Insurance: Thai healthcare can be expensive for foreigners without coverage, so get great travel insurance. It should cover medical emergencies, accidents, trip cancellations, and lost belongings.

• Calculate Your Stay Accurately: Overstaying your visa can result in significant fines (500 THB per day, up to 20,000 THB), detention, deportation, and potential future entry bans up to 5 years.

Also Read: How to Book a Thailand Visa Appointment?

Alternative Solutions for Longer Stays

Visas	Purpose	Validity	Stay and Entry	Cost
Destination Tourist Visa (DTV)	Workcation	5 years	Unlimited entries- Stay up to 180 days per visit	₹25,000
Thailand eVisa	Tourism	Single entry – 3 months	Single-entry	₹2,500
Thailand eVisa	Tourism	Multiple entry – 6 months	Multiple-entry	₹12,500

Suggested Read: Thailand Visa Rejection for Indians: Top 10 Causes 

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FAQs

Is Thailand going to reduce the visa-free stay for tourists to 30 days?

Yes, the Thai government has agreed in principle to reduce the visa-free stay for tourists, but an official implementation date is pending.

How many days can you stay in Thailand visa-free?

Currently, citizens of 93 countries can stay in Thailand for up to 60 days. It is expected to be reduced to 30 days.

What happens if I overstay 2 days in Thailand?

You will be fined 500 Thai Baht per day (total 1,000 THB) at the airport upon departure. You will also be blacklisted and banned for up to 5 years. 

Is Thailand visa-free for Indians?

Yes, Thailand offers visa-free entry to Indians for up to 60 days. This stay duration may be reduced to 30 days.

What are the new rules for tourists in Thailand in 2025?

Here are the new Thai rules for tourists: 

• The Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) is mandatory for all travelers from May 1, 2025.
• The financial proof requirement (20,000 THB) has been reinstated for tourist visa applicants and may also apply to visa-exempt entries.
• Visa-free stay is expected to be reduced from 60 to 30 days in light of increased illegal work activities.