BANGKOK – Thailand, one of the world’s most sought-after travel destinations, is planning to shorten its visa-free stay for tourists from 93 countries. The current 60-day allowance, introduced last year to boost tourism, may soon be reduced back to 30 days, with affected nations including Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. Several international media outlets have reported on the proposed regulatory change, which is expected to have a significant impact on long-term visitors.

Why is Thailand Cutting the Visa-Free Stay?

The primary reason behind the policy shift is the growing misuse of the extended visa-free stay for non-tourism purposes. According to the Bangkok Post, citing Thailand’s Ministry of Tourism, many foreigners have been exploiting the 60-day permit to engage in unauthorized business activities, particularly in sectors that are reserved for Thai nationals or legally regulated industries.

Authorities have identified several types of activities that fall under this category:

• Unlicensed Freelancing and Remote Work: Many digital nomads and foreign freelancers have been working in Thailand without the proper visas, avoiding taxation and legal employment requirements.
• Gray Market Enterprises: Some individuals have been setting up unofficial businesses, such as tour operations, real estate consulting, or online trading, without proper registration.
• Visa Runs and Loophole Exploitation: Visitors extend their stay by frequently exiting and re-entering Thailand, circumventing immigration rules that are meant to regulate long-term stays.
• Unregistered Airbnb Rentals: A growing number of foreigners have been purchasing or renting properties and illegally subletting them through platforms like Airbnb, competing with registered hotels and guesthouses.

The Thai government is tightening visa policies in an effort to curb these activities and ensure that the visa-free allowance is used for its intended purpose—short-term tourism.

Impact on Tourism and the Hospitality Industry

The move is expected to affect a large number of long-term tourists, particularly European travelers who prefer extended stays in Thailand during winter months. Many visitors from Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, who often spend several weeks exploring the country’s beaches, islands, and cultural sites, may now reconsider Thailand as their destination or opt for alternative locations with more flexible visa policies.

For the hotel and hospitality industry, this could result in a decline in long-stay bookings, particularly in cities like Chiang Mai, Phuket, and Koh Samui, which attract digital nomads and long-term visitors. Smaller boutique hotels, guesthouses, and rental apartments that cater to extended stays may see reduced occupancy rates.

Tourism analysts predict that Thailand’s hospitality sector will need to adapt by targeting short-term holidaymakers and promoting higher-value tourism experiences to compensate for the potential loss of long-term visitors. Luxury resorts and five-star hotels may benefit, while budget accommodations that rely on extended stays could face revenue losses.

Alternatives for Long-Term Visitors

Travelers who wish to stay in Thailand beyond 30 days still have options:

• Tourist Visa: Visitors can apply for a 60-day tourist visa in advance via the Thai government’s official website.
• Destination Thailand Visa (DTV): Designed for digital nomads, this multiple-entry visa is valid for five years and allows stays of up to 180 days per visit, with an extension option. The application fee is 10,000 Thai Baht (approximately €270).

Transition period expected

Although the visa reduction has reportedly been agreed upon by Thai authorities, the exact date of implementation remains unclear. The government will likely announce a transition period to allow travelers and businesses to adjust.

While the new rule aims to prevent visa misuse, it also poses challenges for Thailand’s tourism-driven economy. As neighboring countries like Malaysia and Indonesia introduce more flexible visa policies for long-term travelers, Thailand will need to balance regulatory enforcement with maintaining its attractiveness as a top global travel destination. (zai)

Foto: AT/hz