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Thailand is preparing to tighten its visa policy for international tourists. After offering a generous 60-day visa-free stay to travelers from many European countries, Thai authorities are now expected to reduce the allowed duration back to 30 days. The announcement has raised questions among travelers planning long holidays, digital nomad stays, or multi-country trips across Southeast Asia.
In 2024, Thailand expanded its visa exemption program to boost tourism and attract more international visitors after the global travel slowdown. Citizens from 93 countries, including most European nations, were granted up to 60 days in Thailand without needing a visa.
This temporary policy quickly became popular among long-term travelers and remote workers looking to spend more time in the country.
However, Thai officials have now confirmed plans to end the 60-day exemption period and return to the previous 30-day visa-free entry system for most tourists.
Thailand travel documents and passport illustrating the new visa-free stay limit for European travelers.
The Thai government says the decision is linked to immigration control and concerns over misuse of tourist status.
Authorities reported increasing cases involving:
unauthorized work activities,
long-term stays without proper visas,
repeated border crossings to extend stays,
and violations of immigration regulations.
Officials also emphasized that the majority of tourists visit Thailand for short vacations, meaning the policy change should not strongly impact mainstream tourism.
Planning your trip? Discover our best Thailand itineraries and travel ideas for every type of traveler.
The updated regulation is expected to apply to travelers from many European countries currently benefiting from the extended visa exemption, including:
France
Germany
Belgium
Switzerland
Spain
Italy
Netherlands
and other Schengen countries.
Travelers are advised to follow official government updates, as implementation dates and detailed conditions may still change.
If your trip to Thailand exceeds 30 days, you may need to take additional steps before departure.
Possible options include:
applying for a tourist visa in advance,
requesting a visa extension while in Thailand,
or adjusting your itinerary to fit within the allowed stay period.
In addition, all travelers must continue completing the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) before entering the country.
New 30-day visa-free stay rules in Thailand.
To ensure a smooth trip, travelers should:
verify the latest visa regulations,
check passport validity requirements,
prepare proof of onward or return travel,
keep accommodation and travel documents accessible,
and purchase comprehensive travel insurance.
Since immigration policies can change quickly, checking official Thai embassy websites before departure is strongly recommended.
Read our complete guide to Thailand’s new visa rules and travel requirements for European visitors.
Despite the new visa policy, Thailand continues to attract millions of visitors each year thanks to its rich culture, tropical islands, world-famous cuisine, and affordable travel experiences.
From Bangkok’s vibrant street life to the beaches of Krabi and the mountains of Chiang Mai, Thailand remains an unforgettable destination for European travelers — with just a little more preparation required before departure.
