Thailand is set to scale back its generous 60-day visa-free entry policy, a move that is already causing concern among tourists from over 90 countries, including the US, UK, India, and several Gulf nations. The current policy, which was introduced to boost the tourism sector following the pandemic, allowed travelers significant flexibility to explore the country at a leisurely pace. However, the government is now narrowing these stay limits in response to growing public frustration over an uptick in reports of foreign nationals engaging in illegal activities, including operating businesses without permits and committing various criminal offenses.

While officials have not yet announced a firm start date for the new restrictions, they have clarified that travelers will still be able to extend their initial 30-day stay by another month, subject to immigration approval. Despite the pushback from backpackers and tour organizers who fear these changes might drive visitors to more affordable regional competitors like Vietnam, the government maintains that these measures are necessary to tighten security and curb illegal activity. For many long-term visitors, the prospect of navigating more complex visa requirements could fundamentally alter their travel habits, turning a once-seamless experience into a logistical challenge.