Thailand aims to cut visa-free stay to 30 days to curb abuse by tourists
The move comes amid concerns over illegal businesses involving travellers and unlawful rentals of condominium units to visitors in Thailand
Last year, the kingdom expanded the scheme to holidaymakers from 93 countries and territories, allowing them to stay for up to 60 days.
Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong said multiple ministries and stakeholders had agreed in principle to reduce the waiver to 30 days amid concerns over travellers illegally conducting business in the country and condominium units being unlawfully rented out to visitors.
The country, known for its palm-fringed beaches, aims to attract 39 million foreign guests this year, rolling out major measures including enhancing safety and airport infrastructure and promoting wellness and eco-friendly tourism to reach that target.
A tourism ministry official said a law enforcement blitz targeting foreign firms exploiting legal loopholes and the visa-free rule would be intensified in holiday hotspots like Phuket, Pattaya and Koh Samui, the Bangkok Post reported.
Last year, the government cancelled the licences of 40 companies as part of the crackdown, which the Association of Thai Travel Agents welcomed and urged the authorities not to fall for financial inducements.