Published：May 18, 16:00Last updated：May 20, 16:46

Thailand Reverts to 30-Day Visa-Free Policy Amid Security Concerns

May. 18, 2026 16:00

Thailand's cabinet decided to取消 the 60-day visa-free policy for citizens of over 90 countries, reverting to the previous 30-day standard. The Tourism Minister stated the policy adjustment was based on security and economic considerations. Meanwhile, China's免签 map expanded in Latin America, with Brazil announcing visa-free entry for Chinese citizens starting May 11.

Summarized

14News

11Media

May. 20, 2026 06:43

Thailand is tightening visa rules for tourists from 90 countries, including Australia, due to concerns about crimes committed by foreigners. The visa-free period will be reduced, with durations determined on a country-by-country basis.

May. 20, 2026 16:46

Thailand will reduce its visa-free entry program from 60 days to 30 days due to a surge in illegal employment and criminal activity. The decision aims to curb unauthorized work and criminal behavior among visitors. The change will affect travelers entering through Suvarnabhumi Airport, which serves Bangkok. This move reflects Thailand's efforts to address misuse of its visa-free policy.

Thailand has officially revoked its 60-day visa-free entry policy for citizens of over 90 countries, including China, Australia, and the UK, reverting to the previous 30-day standard. The decision, approved by the Thai cabinet on May 19, 2026, aims to address security concerns, such as illegal employment and criminal activities by foreign nationals, while reassessing visa policies based on economic factors. This policy reversal comes as Thailand seeks to balance tourism recovery with national security priorities, despite the sector's vital contribution to the country's GDP. The government also plans to introduce a 300 baht air travel fee to fund tourism safety and infrastructure upgrades. China.org+2

🛂 Policy Reversal Details

The Thai government will implement a country-by-country evaluation through its Visa Policy Committee, with the United Kingdom among 93 affected nations. New regulations take effect 15 days after official publication, marking a significant shift from the 2024 policy designed to boost tourism numbers. Brazil's simultaneous expansion of visa-free access for Chinese citizens highlights contrasting regional approaches to travel facilitation. Huanqiu+1

🚨 Security Motivations

Authorities specifically cited combating illegal employment and criminal activity by foreign nationals as key reasons for the change. The move follows internal reviews showing certain visa overstayers were involved in transnational crimes. Tourism Minister Surachaphan Phancharoenworalak emphasized the need to balance economic benefits with national security priorities in the revised policy framework. China.org+1

💼 Economic Implications

Thailand's tourism sector, which contributes nearly 20% to GDP, faces uncertainty as the policy change coincides with incomplete post-pandemic recovery. While the government claims the adjustment will streamline immigration processes, industry analysts warn it may deter long-stay tourists from key markets like Russia and the UK. The Thai Visa Policy Committee will continue monitoring impacts on visitor numbers and spending patterns. BBC News+1

BrazilUnited KingdomSurasak PancharoenworakulThai Visa Policy CommitteeSurachaphan Phancharoenworalak