This is NOT an official government website. We are an independent resource providing information and assistance to travelers.
Is the 60-day visa-free stay in Thailand going to be reduced to 30 days?
Visa PolicyThailand VisaVisa ExemptionsVisa ChangesTourism in ThailandThai Government PoliciesImmigrationExpatriate Living
Feb 14, 2026
3 months ago
Robert ******************
ORIGINAL POSTERRumour is the 60 day visa free stay is likely to be reduced to 30 days any feed back?
TLDR : Answer Summary
There are ongoing rumors regarding the potential reduction of the visa-free stay in Thailand from 60 days to 30 days. While some community members express skepticism about the rumors, citing that the 60-day exemption is currently under review but not officially changed, others argue it could negatively impact tourism as many visitors prefer longer stays. Concerns are also raised about the government's inconsistency in visa policies, which affects tourist planning and spending. Overall, the discussion highlights the need for clarity in immigration policies to better accommodate tourists.
Pelle Eriksson★★★★★
Absolutely Bangkok's best service I highly...recently on Facebook
Luca G.★★★★★
I used this agency for my DTV Visa...recently on Google
Trusted Thai Visa Agent
OVER 100,000 EXPATS SERVED
#1 VISA AGENT IN THAILAND
Rjw *******
Government really be wanting their 1,900 p/person extension fees alot sooner than 60 days 😂
OWo ********
Write when something is certain, and don't comment on rumors. Thank you.
Sissi *******
As you said yourself, rumor.
Russ *******
Why so thai authoroties do this?
Most pathetic and unessary dung show. People dont know who to beleive.
Im in cambodia. Visa options more stable and clear.
Most pathetic and unessary dung show. People dont know who to beleive.
Im in cambodia. Visa options more stable and clear.
Ant *******
Hope so. That will spell the death of Thailand and the birth of every other Asian country. When they wake up and improve their hospitals and safety Thailand is screwed. And they deserve it.
Peter ********
I just told my friend not to go because they keep changing there shit all the way to police prices two years ago 200 now 2000
GreenPar********
As a half Thai, the Thai government need to be more stable and not make stupid rumor or changes… I feel that why soo many people don’t want to deal with the immigration since 1 person might be different to the next person rather than full consistanity
Sammy ********
oh great, i just booked, paid for and confirmed a visit for 39 days in may n june, 2026🙏
Bob *********
That is a pity
Chris ******
I'm sure the policy will change again before too long.
Fred **********
yeah...probably AI ore somebody who likes to fxckup people. I checked immigration... they know nothing about this
Frans ******
They've been "talking" about this for a year now 😄.
********************************************************************************************************************************
*******
/18/thailands-visa-free-stay-will-soon-be-cut-to-30-days-heres-what-it-means-for-touristsSimon *******
I dont care really
Shaun ****
Logic has no place here 555
Phil *********
Retirement helps
Matti **********
Rumor is rumor until Government's decision is confirmed in Royal Gazzette.
🦜
🦜
Harry **********
And the pot where this money would go goes straight to the cabinets private slush fund
Stephen **********
I got a visa before I went in January and was given 90 days visa or you can cross the border in Cambodia and return to Thailand and you get another 90 days
Philip ***********
Every day will be other rumours .. untill now, nothing changed
Mike *********
My wife and I were in the process of getting a non O retirement visa but the confusion and conflicting information leaves us no choice but to postpone this life changing decision until and if the government clarifies the process to ease our concerns
Angelo ***********
Mike Gardner What has a Non O based on retirement to do with a 60 or 30 days visa exempt?
Dianne *****
Mike Gardner how does the uncertainty over the length of visa free entries affect your retirement visa plans? The retirement visa will not be impacted by changes to visa exempt entries used by tourists or those pretending to be tourists
Reply to
Dianne *****
Reply
Alan *******
They have stated they are doing it but when is the question.
Danny *********
Based on a slew of recent headlines it wouldn’t surprise me if England gets reduced to 4 days 😆
Rory *********
It was on Bangkok news and with the election things are suppose to change
Jack *******
That will be the final straw for me, I’ll go somewhere where I am welcomed and my money is appreciated. And how on earth is the change going to stop illegal activities? We all know it’s about increasing visa fee intake and the agents business.
Bruce *****************
Cambodia sub standard medical care. Sub standard infrastructure
Richard ********
I’m getting so tired of the constant immigration changes. They keep moving the goal post it’s pathetic. That should just say we want you for a certain period of time like two weeks no more, spend your money then get out until another year or so for another visit.
Steve ********
I read an article saying they are going to continue the 60-day visa exempt. I read another article saying they are reducing it to 30. Bottom line is Thai government stories are almost always conflicting, especially when it comes to immigration. The only sure thing is to wait until policy is actually implemented.
Should not affect tourism either way. Most tourists are here less than 30 days. For those "wintering" in Pattaya, they can get a tourist visa. For those living in Thailand, it is time to figure out whether you want to finally get a visa or move somewhere else.
Should not affect tourism either way. Most tourists are here less than 30 days. For those "wintering" in Pattaya, they can get a tourist visa. For those living in Thailand, it is time to figure out whether you want to finally get a visa or move somewhere else.
Venesz *******
***************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************
*******
/13/thailand-to-slash-visa-free-stay-from-60-to-30-days-amid-security-concerns/?fbclid=IwdGRjcAP9JZFjbGNrA_0ljWV4dG4DYWVtAjExAHNydGMGYXBwX2lkDDM1MDY4NTUzMTcyOAABHrhu03ZVRzQromOC8CjjJKuf_oWJSfnhPu_YVkXAc4EIYSweunI6X-WBWy_S_aem_wSt7xhURZaTtYRt7lk6aYQJuliette ********************
We use to come for 3 weeks or so but when they changed to 60 days we increased our stay times here . Last year we did just under 3 months . This year 2 months .
Chang ******
Japan and America 🇺🇸 90 days no visa . What's wrong with Thailand 🇹🇭 ???
Tourists spend so much money helping thai economy, 💰 so do I........
Tourists spend so much money helping thai economy, 💰 so do I........
Martyn *******
The answer is simple. Wait and see
Natalie *******
Haven't they just put out a yearly visa encouraging property purchase you're either a normal tourist or longer term they must be doing away with that border run and overstayed people without money
Will ************
The average tourist stays in Thailand for between 8 and 10 days only around 3-5% max out the 60 days
Sylvester *********
@Will ***********
that would be asian countries id assume as realistically who's gonna fly from America Britain Sweden Norway etc etc for a holiday of approximately 5 to 6 days taken into account time flight takes and time of dayDianne *****
Sylvester Graydon lots of Australians visit Thailand for less than two weeks, with one week to 10 day visits being common
Sylvester *********
Dianne Lee i dunno how long the flight is from Australia I'm irish takes me over 14hrs flying time takes 3 hrs b4 I fly and 3 hrs in between so 20hrs to get there same back guts of 2 days hardly worth going for a week is it
Reply to
Sylvester *********
Reply
Will ************
Sylvester Graydon that’s the official figures for ALL tourists entering Thailand
Reply to
Will ************
Reply
Bil ******
No
Malcolm *********
The new government has not took over yet
Ian **********
They changed to 60 in the hope it would encourage more tourists - it hasn't, but it has become a tool for undesirable visitors to stay in Thailand long-term. A failed experiment
Ander******
Ian Morrison yeah the old fairytale of reducing "undesirable visitors" reducing the visa exempt days instead of checking who they are
Reply to
Ander******
Reply
David ********
Apparently the change is to further deter border runners. BUT they say it's only 3% who stay longer than 21 days. So why change it. Just limit the annual days.
Dk ****
It’s all the scum tourists they are getting in particularly around Pattaya and the Patong area of Phuket, Thai people have had enough of these cretins.
Joe **********
Dk Dk No its the scum who are trying to dodge being their legally by doing constant border runs to play the system
Good luck to the government in getting rid of these parasites. Changing back to 30 days won't affect the genuine tourists as most of them don't stay that long!
Good luck to the government in getting rid of these parasites. Changing back to 30 days won't affect the genuine tourists as most of them don't stay that long!
Sylvester *********
Dk Dk there's a simple remedy deport and blacklist sorts all that kind of behaviour out
Dk ****
Sylvester Graydon 💯 agree
Reply to
Dk ****
Reply
Andy **********
Good
Berkley *********
Yeah I never stay over 14 days, because im a tourist
Jeremy ***********
I can't decide what to have for my dinner?.
Max **********
It seems the government wants the tourists money but not the tourist!!!
Samuel *******
Max Marriott clever boy!
Reply to
Samuel *******
Reply
Mark ********
🤡🤡
Sandro-Sam *********
It's a distraction because there aren't enough distractions out there ATM
Steve *******
Oh how many times has this been talked about. Wait to see if it happens.
Robert *********
As they want more tourism ND are losing market share.
TAT will decide to make it more difficult for many tourists to stay for the whole winter .
Cambodia for example ,pay one time 300 dollars ,stay forward year .no 90 day check ins ...nothing.
TAT will decide to make it more difficult for many tourists to stay for the whole winter .
Cambodia for example ,pay one time 300 dollars ,stay forward year .no 90 day check ins ...nothing.
Timo ********
Same same every year
MD *******
Not till summer.
Ivan *********
As soon as they have the ferry to pattaya from hua hin back running the 30 days will be back
Dennis *********
Its not a visa . And ....its already 30 days
Duncan *******
Dennis Nellany visa exempt has been 60 days since July 2024 and it has not changed back to 30.
Dennis *********
@Duncan ******
last time i came through it was stamped at 30 just before xmas which was ok as I was only staying 13 daysDuncan *******
Dennis Nellany then you were stamped in incorrectly or are not from a visa-exempt country. Bangkok Post article two days ago - there is a push from the Tourism and Sports Ministry for it to drop from 60 to 30, but it's not a done deal yet.
****************************************************************************************
*****
19/shorter-visafree-stays-on-the-cardsReply to
Duncan *******
Reply
Davy ***************
I can't see any logic behind this move tbh, someone retired in the west with ties to home want to ride out the winter months, they'll just fly out to Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia or the Philippines and spend their money there, am I missing something?
John **********
@Davy **************
they could just get a tourist visa which would still give 60 daysLynnette *******
@John *********
they'd rather complain how unfair it is. And how tourists won't come. Which is unlikely to happen.Dianne *****
@John *********
plus a 30 day extension, bringing their stay to 90 daysReply to
Dianne *****
Reply
Collywobble **********
Davy Jones Locker or Bali......tho can be wet humid???
Reply to
Collywobble **********
Reply
Glyn **********
Stop spreading rumours!
Steve ****
It’s not a “rumour”
It’s actually under review by the government. Does that mean confirmed? No, but worth keeping an eye on.
Honestly, if you’re doing 2 60 day with extensions, get a visa
It’s actually under review by the government. Does that mean confirmed? No, but worth keeping an eye on.
Honestly, if you’re doing 2 60 day with extensions, get a visa
Ivan *********
Been saying this for months. One minute the Thai government is saying they want more people coming to Thailand and the next saying they will cut it down to 30 days again. How's that going to get more people and money coming into Thailand. They should be making it 90 + days that would bring more money in
Robert *********
This was just Bangkok Post re-editing a post from 2024, which technically updated their post and made it look like it was a new story. No more repeating this story please!
Stephen ********
Wouldn't worry too much about it. If you need 60 days, just apply for a visa. Simples 🤷♂️
Ian *********
It was still 60 today
Mike *******
T A T SHOULD CHANGE ITS NAME. TO
TWAT
THEY HAVE NO IDEA EHAG ITS DOING TO THE TOURIST FROM ENGLAD AND OTHER WESTERN COUNTRIES ITS SAY YOU ARE NOT WANTED IN THAILAND
ONLY INDIAN. CHINESE AND RUSSIAN
WANTED
THANK GOD. VIENAM CAMBODIA. INDONESIA PHILIPPINES WELCOME US
SAD FOR THE THAI PEOPLE
TWAT
THEY HAVE NO IDEA EHAG ITS DOING TO THE TOURIST FROM ENGLAD AND OTHER WESTERN COUNTRIES ITS SAY YOU ARE NOT WANTED IN THAILAND
ONLY INDIAN. CHINESE AND RUSSIAN
WANTED
THANK GOD. VIENAM CAMBODIA. INDONESIA PHILIPPINES WELCOME US
SAD FOR THE THAI PEOPLE
Andy **********
Mike Cobby Drunk or high, or both?
Reply to
Andy **********
Reply
PurpleO********
Its only being ‘considered’ its not implemented.
Its still 60 days for now
Its still 60 days for now
Steve **********
Are you spreading rumours ?
FarangJ********
Yes. The plan is to reduce rubbish tourists by forcing them to buy a visa or go home before using beaches as toilets and crash pads.
JR *************
FarangJaiDee123 yeah those rubbish tourists that were repeatably spending 5-7k baht with Thai companies for visa runs. Baffles me how a 30 day tourist is great where someone who spends both time and money for longer is in some way bad quality! Like these fights that are happening! To Thai it’s all about “free visa”…. Like £30 means anything to any of us! These people have a bit too much to drink and are probably scrapping over women! Not because they are career criminals that can’t get a bloody tourist visa!
FarangJ********
@JR ************
What kind of loser spends that kind of money on visa runs?Reply to
FarangJ********
Reply
Steve ***************
FarangJaiDee123 what tourists used Thai beaches as toilets or crash pads? Please include links to relevant news features. Thanks
Reply to
FarangJ********
Reply
Martin *********
It's been confirmed not just a rumour.Its 30 days now but extensions are still available
PurpleO********
Martin Maclean er- are you sure? Where do you have that from?
Martin *********
PurpleOtter5805 Source: Travel And Tour World
**************************************
Dianne *****
Martin Maclean that is not the government gazzette. Still nothing official yet. Only speculation and rumours
Reply to
Dianne *****
Reply
Josh ****
I’m actually really taking a liking to Vietnam. And the continuing surge of tourist numbers speaks for itself.
Mike ******
Many other rumors regarding goverment regulations all the time for as long as I can remember
Stuart ********
It isn’t a problem if they do put it back to 30 days. When it was you just applied for a 60 day tourist visa and payed the £30 which it was back then, and you still could get the 30 day extension after that at immigration.
Richard ********
Stuart Gallon yes but for people wanting to stay more than 30days they'll need a flight out of Thailand within those 30days even though they have possibility of an extension
Dianne *****
Richard Hutton only if they use the visa free option as opposed to applying for the 60 day tourist visa, described by the previous commenter
Reply to
Dianne *****
Reply
Fred *******
As other countries like mine USA treat Thailand badly in economics and other forums revenge is bound to happen but they won't cut things back too much as that would interfere with tourism and tourism is really what this country is all about
Dianne *****
Fred Winer Thailand is more about car manufacturing, export of seafood, export of textiles, export of rice, rubber and electronics. Tourism plays a small part of the economy although tourists generally only visit the highly touristed areas and so think this is the case for the whole of Thailand
John *********
Fred Winer actually, tourism is approximately 10% of GDP.
Reply to
John *********
Reply
Glenn ********
I agree 100 percent. This government needs to make a decision and stick with it. They are ruining tourism
Raymond *********
I heard The Beatles have split up.
Can anyone confirm?
Can anyone confirm?
Willy ********
Raymond Spencer The Beatles split. It is confirmed.
Raymond *********
Willy Berger Dam was hoping for new tour dates 😪🙄
Raymond *********
Willy Berger DAMN.....I was hoping for a reunion.
Reply to
Raymond *********
Reply
Fred **********
Raymond Spencer 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣
Colin ***************
Raymond Spencer What will get the Beatles back together ❤️ again.
Mos *******
Colin W Goodfellow 120 days visa
Reply to
Mos *******
Reply
Jan ********
I applied for the TDAC online & it came back valued for 60 days . For a 30 day holiday .
Lynnette *******
Jan Cuddon the free TDAC doesn't give you a value for anything. It's not a visa. It's just your arrival info details.
Gerry *******
Jan Cuddon because it is still 60 days. No change
Reply to
Gerry *******
Reply
Lynnette *******
Just rumour. If it changes, 30 days is still a decent holiday. Plus there's the 30 day extension too. It's the visa exempt abusers to thank for any changes IF they happen. So let's hope they choose Vietnam or Malaysia to go play the free entry system.
Lorraine *****
Lynnette Munoz 30 days great unless you planned on staying to the length of the 60 day waiver and have already booked accommodation and flights to leave Thailand on day 59 not day 29!
Lynnette *******
Lorraine Hof no one stopping you doing that. You're panicking about something could still give you 60 days. 🤦
Lynnette *******
Lorraine Hof there is no plan in place to change the entry to 30. But if they did, you'd just do the extension of 30 days, giving you 60 days total, so there's no problem at all.
Reply to
Lynnette *******
Reply
John *****
Lynnette Munozsad that at your ripe old age, wisdom still does not exist. Thai gov also says there is no prostitution in pattaya, they don't run state sponsored disinformation campaigns and that there is no corruption within the thai police 🤣🤣🤣🤣 polish those boots, parrot
John *****
Lynnette Munozat your age, you still havent realised that blaming the foreigners is really about internal politics? Wow!
Lynnette *******
John Son the Thai govt had said it's the misuse of visa exempt to live in Thailand that they are concerned about. If that's the case you need to complain to the Thai govt for blaming foreigners. Not me. I'm not sure who else uses visa exempt other than non-thais. Perhaps you have more info on who uses visa exempt and can explain to someone "my age".
Mark *******
Lynnette Munoz All countries have their regulations, to my knowledge it's around 180 days. After that time you can be considered living as a resident. Border-hopping is abusing the system, you wouldn't get away with it in Ibiza for example. I understood, though, could be mistaken, only certain countries will have their visa exempt reduced to 30 days. Money laundering, trafficking are causing additional problems, hence, contributing to the tightening of rules.
Lynnette *******
Wayne North If you want figures from govt on numbers of people using visa exempt to live in Thailand or play the visa free system, you might be able to find them on line somewhere. Over the past few years this page has been pretty busy with people doing the exact thing that the govt are trying to limit. Anyway, I'm sure it's not really going to affect many foreign tourists. A 2 month holiday would still be possible. Or a tourist visa giving 3 months. Or one if the other visas they offer. So not sure why you're ranting at me. 🤦
Reply to
Lynnette *******
Reply
Gary *****
Lynnette Munoz Vietnam and Malaysia are both excellent countries for long stay also..but Pattaya barstool mongers wouldn't cope very well there..
Lynnette *******
Gary Joe I'm sure both those countries are great. Not been to Vietnam and only had a couple short visits to Malaysia.
Reply to
Lynnette *******
Reply
David ******
What in the hell am I doing wrong. How do so many people get so much free time. I get 5 weeks of vacation plus holidays. At best maybe I can spend 20 days in Thailand. How are people fighting for doing 60 days plus. What am I doing wrong. Am I just collecting too much money by working?
Angelo ***********
David Earl Some work remotely in Thailand.
I am self employed, I can make vacation when ever I have no paying customer.
I am self employed, I can make vacation when ever I have no paying customer.
Lone ***********
David Earl we are retired.
Shirley **********
David Earl I'm retired but If I was still working I'd only have 4 wks
Richard ********
David Earl never heard of retirement
David ******
Richard Hutton I'm a year away from the goal. I set a number and hustled hard to get there. I should be set for life without too much of a care. I personally choose the path to grind and focus, so that when I'm done , I'm all the way done working.
Reply to
David ******
Reply
Stephen *********
David Earl You are not retired. Many retirees would like to spend half the year in Thailand. No intention of permanently living here. What is wrong with that?
David ******
Stephen Hannant very close, one more year I'm going to work.
Reply to
David ******
Reply
Al ********
David Earl you're just a fool that didn't realize yet that time is worth more then money 😂
David ******
Al Brinks yes, I see. 🤣🤣. I should have figured this out a long time ago.
Reply to
David ******
Reply
Steve ******
David Earl you can get more money but not more time 😀 I do sixty days but am retired.
Gary *****
David Earl I only worked 3 months a year since I was 33..33 years ago, Im fully retired in May..Not loaded financially but in seriously better health than most my age by the Grace of God 🙏🙏
PurpleO********
David Earl many options. Work some time remotely, or quit working- start investing, combine office work with homeoffice work with remote working.
Oh, and start investing 🤣
Oh, and start investing 🤣
Andy **********
PurpleOtter5805 Except working remotely while on an exemption is technically illegal, and risking exposing your employer to the Permanent Establishment. If working remotely in Thailand, get the proper visa, and make sure your activities do not run foul of your country's tax treaty with the Kingdom of Thailand.
PurpleO********
Andy Thompson
What? Visa exempt is visa exempt, meaning you have no visa, and therefore no requirement to fulfill anything
Please explain where it is written and where is technically illegal coming from?
You talking rubbish I fear. If someone is on vacation for 4, 6 or 8 weeks with 60 day stamp, im sure its perfectly ok with no rules saying you cannot work a day or a week or 2 weeks or whatever during that time.
And as for tax, you need to be a tax resident which in in most cases means residing in a country more than 180days in a year.
I feel that you don’t know much about, travelling, and being an expat in foreign countries. Would like to know more about where your statements come from.
What? Visa exempt is visa exempt, meaning you have no visa, and therefore no requirement to fulfill anything
Please explain where it is written and where is technically illegal coming from?
You talking rubbish I fear. If someone is on vacation for 4, 6 or 8 weeks with 60 day stamp, im sure its perfectly ok with no rules saying you cannot work a day or a week or 2 weeks or whatever during that time.
And as for tax, you need to be a tax resident which in in most cases means residing in a country more than 180days in a year.
I feel that you don’t know much about, travelling, and being an expat in foreign countries. Would like to know more about where your statements come from.
Reply to
PurpleO********
Reply
Dan *******
I work 6 months and travel 6 months. Semi retired. It’s snowing back home. Currently 80 degrees in Vietnam 🇻🇳 😂
David ******
Dan Brown I'm a year away from retiring. I will probably do the same. But I worked my ass off so that once I stop working I will very comfortably never have to work again. I been professionally employed for 32 years. I'm surprised at the younger crowd not maximizing their income potential. Hard to maximize income potential legally living in Thailand.
Lynnette *******
David Earl thaib"retirement" visa is for 50 yrs olds. So pretty good they let people come so easily and can stay year on year. Try it in UK or USA. . Not so easy.
Dan *******
Some unsolicited advice , if I may. I retired at 60 during the pandemic. I wasn’t sure what was going to happen and it made sense at the time. All my friends said that I’d return to work and they were right.
There’s a belief that goes like this :
The connection between retirement age and longevity shows that retiring later often increases life expectancy due to the cognitive, physical, and social benefits of continued work.
In other words , I believe you live longer if you continue to work. It gives you purpose. A reason to get up in the morning.
I’m 67 and hope to live to be the same age my parents did.
They both were 84 when they passed. Both worked , until they couldn’t.
There’s a belief that goes like this :
The connection between retirement age and longevity shows that retiring later often increases life expectancy due to the cognitive, physical, and social benefits of continued work.
In other words , I believe you live longer if you continue to work. It gives you purpose. A reason to get up in the morning.
I’m 67 and hope to live to be the same age my parents did.
They both were 84 when they passed. Both worked , until they couldn’t.
Brenda *********
Dan Brown i agree work envirment can be healthy but it can also add stress to your life. Other things in life can add purpose, like grandbabies.
David ******
Dan Brown yes, I've heard this argument as well. I have a job currently that I know is taking years off my life due to the stress and anxiety. I'm probably in the wrong job, but the compensation is so good, I can't leave. I've qualified for retirement benefits, I'm gonna give it one more year of working. But retirement early has always been my goal. While I have time to enjoy it.
Reply to
David ******
Reply
Doug ********
30 days, 60 days, back to 30 days!... Flip flop policy making every year!. This is precisely why tourist arrivals are booming in Malaysia & Vietnam while it is slumping in Thailand! Time to make a decision. Does the Thai Government love or hate tourism?
Magnus *********************
Doug Donlas It’s under investigation each year, if I’m not wrong they look on the 30-60 days free each 6 months and make decisions after that.
Only seen it change ones in 11 years I’ve lived here.
Tourist go as tourist go, blooming and attractive at one place doesn’t mean it’s better. We travel allot over Asia, if need for visa or any other documents then just provide them, it’s not that hard 😆
Only seen it change ones in 11 years I’ve lived here.
Tourist go as tourist go, blooming and attractive at one place doesn’t mean it’s better. We travel allot over Asia, if need for visa or any other documents then just provide them, it’s not that hard 😆
Christopher ******
Doug Donlas to go to vietnam even for 1 day i need to apply for a visa. Thailand still much better
Jeff *************
Doug Donlas not sure about Malaysia but Vietnam doesn’t let you in free for any days, visa is 30 bucks, Thailand free
Rafael *********
Doug Donlas and don't forget it was 45 days after Corona
Alex *****
Doug Donlas most tourists come for less than 30 days anyway. Shouldn't have a big effect. Tourism was already on the decline with 60 days.
Malaysia has nothing on Thailand and tourists will find that out over time.
Vietnam... Well, it's become more affordable relative to Thailand.
Malaysia has nothing on Thailand and tourists will find that out over time.
Vietnam... Well, it's become more affordable relative to Thailand.
Tony ********
Doug Donlas I’m thinking the same. I was going to retire to Thailand next year but this whole Visa nightmare is making me consider Vietnam instead.
Stephen ********
Tony Walton Why would changed to tourist visas affect someone retiring here? 😂😂😂😂😂😂
Douglas *******
Tony Walton Unlike Thailand VN doesn't have a retirement visa
Dianne *****
Tony Walton if you are going to retire here changes to tourist visas wouldn't affect you. Changes to the retirement visa are minimal with only a couple of changes in recent decades
Alan **********
Tony Walton Excellent alternatives. 👍
Doug ********
Tony Walton Ive been searching SE Asia & beyond for alternatives. Been to Indonesia, Cambodia, Vietnam, Georgia (Tblisi) & India this Winter on the hunt.
Alan **********
Doug Donlas Excellent alternatives. 👍
Donald **********
Alan Rothwell 😂
Reply to
Donald **********
Reply
Donald **********
Doug Donlas How many genuine, bona fide tourists normally stay more than 30 days?
Cee ******
Donald Campbell many of us stay to do buying for our business
Joanne *********
Donald Campbell actually we have come across many who are taking sabbaticals or extended leave from jobs they are burnt out from and needing more than just a trip around the sights for the “average 21 days”. They actually need to completely rest and recover and choose Thailand because they have been able to take the time they need. Why do people need to be so judgy on these groups?
Frankie *****
Donald Campbell the real rich ones that Thai govt wants can easily afford visas or young ones stay longer on working visas
Those that transient for short time between here and there and on visa runs.. not likely sought after.
Those that transient for short time between here and there and on visa runs.. not likely sought after.
Lorraine *****
Donald Campbell those who love Thailand and fancy seeing the whole country in 60days not 30 🙄
Man *******
Donald Campbell me
Tim ********
They could make 30 day stay free, 60 days 500baht, 90 days 1000 bath, 120 days 1500 bath. Etc etc + 30 days = + 500 bath, no limits up to 1 yr apply and pay before leaving your own country. Simple paid upfront, no confusion at immigration, simple, you want to stay you pay and Thailand gets more money than visa extensions, more the one year retirement visa (O/OA visa) over 180 days you have become a tax resident.
Tony ********
Tim Rowley sensible
Reply to
Tony ********
Reply
Tim ********
Donald Campbell I am a Snowbird and stay 5 - 6 months, just like others I know from UK, Canada, USA, long stay tourists.
Donald **********
Tim Rowley Snowbird about sums up your air of entitlement. If the current visa free entry system doesn’t fit your agenda, you can either decide not to come to Thailand or you could obtain a suitable visa. There is a 6 months tourist visa available with a few requirements attached.
Reply to
Donald **********
Reply
Tony *********
Donald Campbell Richer ones!
Donald **********
Tony Iddiols Canal Street might be a good alternative for you and BTW, if you are so filthy rich, don’t be a tight arse (🤣) and research a suitable visa. You may think you’re something special in the UK, with your boasting, but you are irrelevant in Thailand.
Donald **********
Tony Iddiols I’m sure Canal Street has the same attractions for you.
Reply to
Donald **********
Reply
Mari *************
Donald Campbell me, every year 3 months
Donald **********
Mari Lou Fields Get a visa and BTW whinging is not attractive.
Reply to
Donald **********
Reply
Doug ********
Donald Campbell I was referring to the inconsistant & arbitrary nature of Thai policy making. They just need to settle on a policy & then stick with it. Its the constant policy churn & arbitrary enforcement that drives tourists to go elsewhere!
Donald **********
Doug Donlas The Thais are obviously not Northern European. They operate on a different wavelength. Wistful thinking on your part won’t change anything. The policy making doesn’t change much, only how it is manipulated. If you can’t handle that, get a tourist visa so you know exactly where you stand.
Brenton ******
Doug Donlas not only with tourism, but with everything. Theyare constantly changing the rules.
Reply to
Brenton ******
Reply
Chris *********
Donald Campbell Well me for starters. I'm flying home tomorrow after 57 days in Thailand.
Donald **********
Chris Barnett if it goes back to 30 I would think you should be able to extend by 30 days at Immigration. Hypothetical at the moment. If not get a tourist visa.
Lynnette *******
Chris Barnett so the change wouldn't affect you. 30 day plus 30 extension or a 60 day tourist visa plus 30 extension?
Reply to
Lynnette *******
Reply
Cody *********
Donald Campbell what percentage of legit tourists like me does Thailand want to lose?
This change will have no effect on people who overstay or otherwise ignore Thailand's laws.
But people like me who work seasonally will just end up spending more time and money elsewhere instead.🤷
This change will have no effect on people who overstay or otherwise ignore Thailand's laws.
But people like me who work seasonally will just end up spending more time and money elsewhere instead.🤷
Donald **********
@Cody ********
Find a legitimate visa in that case, if you are taking the piss with visa exempt. I doubt your financial input to Thailand will influence the political movers and shakers at all.Cody *********
Donald Campbell look buttercup, I don't know what "taking the piss" means, but I did notice you didn't answer my question.
Presumably because we both know the answer.🤷
If Thailand doesn't want me spending so much money here then I will just go spend my time and money somewhere I am more welcome.
Preferably a long distance from people like you!👋
Presumably because we both know the answer.🤷
If Thailand doesn't want me spending so much money here then I will just go spend my time and money somewhere I am more welcome.
Preferably a long distance from people like you!👋
Lynnette *******
@Cody ********
tourist visa is what tourists can get.Reply to
Lynnette *******
Reply
John *********
Donald Campbell probably less than 3%
Reply to
John *********
Reply
Stephen ********
Doug Donlas It's only changed twice in the last twenty years! 😂😂😂😂😂😂
Max **********
Stephen Howell 3times past year. 30 -60 - 30 -60 - 30. Unstable government making decisions on the run.
Stephen ********
Max Marriott Your figures are totally wrong! It was 30 days for years, went up to 45 during covid, returned to 30 for a short while, then to 60 since July 2024. 😂😂. I guess simple arithmetic wasn't your forte at school!
Max **********
Stephen Howell 2025 30-60,60-30, 30-60.
Reply to
Max **********
Reply
Allan ******
Stephen Howell and tourism certainly isn’t slumping because of that!
Dianne *****
Allan Repp Absolutely, most tourists spend less than two weeks at a time in Thailand
Stephen ********
Allan Repp Makes no difference to tourism. Most tourist come for less than three weeks.
Reply to
Stephen ********
Reply
Doug ********
Stephen Howell twice in the last 3 years by my count, but who's counting? (tourists, that's who). 😊
GiftedPass***********
Doug Donlas and sooky sooky la Las like you
David ********
Doug Donlas you sound very angry.lol
Stephen ********
Doug Donlas Yes 45 to 30 to 60. Before that 30 for the previous 20+ years! 😂😂😂
Colin *********
Doug Donlas have trouble counting on one hand eh? I was in Thailand near the end of 2023 & it was 30 days Visa Exempt. Changed to 60 days on July 15, 2024. Hasn't changed from that yet. Hope that helps you with counting 🤣
Duncan *******
Doug Donlas visa exempt has changed once in decades - it won't be twice unless they decide to drop back to 30 days, which hasn't been confirmed yet.
Reply to
Duncan *******
Reply
Matteo ***********
So at this point it's still 60 days on arrival for us farangs? I thought it already went back to 30 days years ago
Stephen ********
Matteo Montanari Considering the 60 days has only been in since July 2024, I can't see how it could be years ago!
Katrin *******
Matteo Montanari It‘s been 60 days for quite a while now.
Reply to
Katrin *******
Reply
Ado *******
HOPE ITS FRUITFUL.
Martyn ***********
Yes.. It's a rumour.
Seriously... Thai government release this stuff as 'proposals' and see what shit hits the fan, if it's a lot.. Then It's a 'misunderstanding.'....
The new government has said they want to simplify the visa system to improve tourism? So my guess is it will stay the same.
Seriously... Thai government release this stuff as 'proposals' and see what shit hits the fan, if it's a lot.. Then It's a 'misunderstanding.'....
The new government has said they want to simplify the visa system to improve tourism? So my guess is it will stay the same.
Determine**********
Martyn Rollinson wrong. That's not how autin does things. He's the proud type of Asian that "I'm doing it and you will just have to accept it. If not you then others will come". Asians know this type of character best. Most bosses are like that in Asia.
Martyn ***********
DeterminedPanda4105 That's not a good thing if correct..IMHO. That isn't the way a government should be run. It should be about democracy and making informed decisions based in research by the various ministers, committees etc...
Reply to
Martyn ***********
Reply
Robert *********
Martyn Rollinson western logic will agree with you .
They are not western
They are not western
Reply to
Robert *********
Reply
Danny *********
Not with the Thai baht at current levels and prices continuing to rise. Millions of tourists are choosing Vietnam over Thailand now
Determine**********
Danny Pickles you mean you cannot tell that the govt are trying to get rid of tourist? Isn't it obvious that by politics they want the number or tourist to drop. Whatever their reasons are it's political. The reason why the news keeps repeating drop in tourist is for the govt to see and hoping to change their actions.
Brenda *********
Danny Pickles I’m seeing that, if it keeps going up, I may not be able to retire there.
Danny *********
Brenda Hegwood no it make no sense if they are charging 90% of western prices
Reply to
Danny *********
Reply
Barrie *********
Danny Pickles Try Cambodia
Dan *******
Currently in Hoi An , Vietnam for a two month stay , celebrating the New Year. Headed back to Thailand next month.
Would have liked to stayed in Thailand longer but they’re making it difficult. Can’t do a visa run anymore.
Vietnam makes it easy . 3 month visa for $25. Have to leave the country to reapply for another 3 months. Can do it as many times as you want , unlike Thailand.
Would have liked to stayed in Thailand longer but they’re making it difficult. Can’t do a visa run anymore.
Vietnam makes it easy . 3 month visa for $25. Have to leave the country to reapply for another 3 months. Can do it as many times as you want , unlike Thailand.
Danny *********
Dan Brown exactly , Thailand making thing difficult and Philippines charging $70 for a 30 day extension Vietnam is a no brainer. And many bars in Thailand want 150+ baht for a Thai beer 😆
Gary *****
Dan Brown You will stop feeling smug about your cosy life in VN when every Monger from Pattaya reads your comments and then become your neighbours..Hoi An will not feel so good anymore..
Dan *******
What a strange and creepy comment. Fortunately I could care less what you think. You’re a weirdo on the internet arguing with strangers. Pathetic.
Reply to
Dan *******
Reply
Sean **********
Dan Brown but that’s the exact reason they are enforcing it. Want to stay here? Pay for the correct visa, no problem.
Dan *******
No. The reason they started “enforcing” it was scammers , illegal workers and human traffickers . Years ago , I was told to leave and comeback by an immigration officer. He said that it would prevent me from overstaying. It’s never been a problem before. Maybe stop regurgitating what you read on social media. Makes you sound like an idiot.
Reply to
Dan *******
Reply
Dave ******
Danny Pickles I get that but most stay 21 days so won’t effect tourism but you right on costs and bloody thai baht
BronzeHumm***********
Danny Pickles while I agree with you, when do Thais ever do things logically? I think they will shoot themselves in the foot as usual. And Anutin is widely known to dislike foreigners.
Alan *******
Anutin may not like farangs but he would be wise to keep things level and although thailand has the second biggest economy in sth east asia tourism is a big part of that.
Determine**********
Alan Moore you must be joking thinking he would do it for Thailand tourism. It is all personal agenda. It is going to cut down on tourist. Bringing in corporate instead.
Reply to
Determine**********
Reply
Chris ******
BronzeHummingbird7563 remember him stating during Covid that Farangs did not shower enough and were guilty of spreading the disease.. yeah right Anutin you corrupt w⚓
BronzeHumm***********
Chris Finn You bet your ass I remember! Anutin is from Buriram in Isaan. I think when he was a young man, some big dicked farang stole his girlfriend and he's had a hard-on for foreigners ever since...
Reply to
BronzeHumm***********
Reply
Dan *******
Whoa ! Did not know about ,Anutin not liking foreigners. Tourism accounts for 20 percent of Thailand’s GNP. Guessing that number’s going to start dropping. Repeat , whoa 😳
Update. Googled and apparently he called Farangs “dirty” during the Covid pandemic.
Update. Googled and apparently he called Farangs “dirty” during the Covid pandemic.
Reply to
Dan *******
Reply
David ******
Rumour, until confirmed take no notice.
Andre ***********
David Kemp so true . Can change in a heart beat.
Dave ******
David Kemp agree until it’s published in royal gazette
Reply to
Dave ******
Reply
63 comments
2 months ago
146 comments
3 months ago
3 comments
7 months ago
10 comments
8 months ago
91 comments
a year ago
8 comments
a year ago
12 comments
a year ago
20 comments
a year ago
38 comments
a year ago
40 comments
a year ago
17 comments
a year ago
50 comments
a year ago
5 comments
a year ago
31 comments
a year ago
3 comments
a year ago
151 comments
a year ago
115 comments
a year ago
64 comments
2 years ago
40 comments
2 years ago
55 comments
2 years ago
20 comments
2 years ago
53 comments
2 years ago
45 comments
3 years ago
42 comments
3 years ago
0 comments
7 years ago
7 comments
a month ago
9 comments
a month ago
21 comments
a month ago
16 comments
a month ago
8 comments
a month ago
The ask:thailand community, consisting of multiple Q/A groups with over 100,000 members, powers this platform. It is not an official government resource. Our members actively contribute to this resource, and while we strive for accuracy, we cannot guarantee its complete reliability. Assistance to travelers is provided as a community service.