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Thailand has officially discontinued the 60-day visa-free policy it had implemented for citizens of more than 90 countries since July 2024 to encourage post-COVID-19 tourism. The decision was made by the Cabinet on May 19, 2026, and those who were previously exempt from visas for the 30-day period will return to the previous rules.

Rising security concerns and usage of the lengthened stay period are the main reasons. Officials said that the mechanisms of illegal employment, overstays, and nominee businesses were being used as well as transnational crime, scams, and foreigners using the policy for non-tourism purposes. The exemption: more than 90% of the visitors will still stay less than 30 days, so it is not necessary for genuine tourists, the officials said.

The government is to review visas on a country-by-country basis, taking into account some elements of security and economy "to incentivize the quality and time spent on the visitors." The shift will make it difficult for some of the digital nomads and prolonged travelers, but basic tourist visas and extensions are still on offer. Visitors are reminded to consult the latest regulations before making travel arrangements to Thailand.