12/02/2026
60 Days Free Visa to Cut Down to 30 !!
On 10 February 2026, Ms. Airin Phanrit, Deputy Government Spokesperson, announced that the Cabinet has acknowledged the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ (MFA) report on visa measures introduced to promote tourism and stimulate Thailand’s economy. While these measures have improved convenience for travelers, the MFA reported significant concerns regarding the 60-day visa exemption scheme, which has negatively affected national security and Thailand’s international image in some aspects.
Since the visa exemption for nationals of 93 countries and territories took effect on 15 July 2024, authorities have found that some foreign nationals have abused this privilege by entering Thailand as tourists but engaging in illegal employment, or using Thailand as a transit point for criminal activities in neighboring countries. These issues directly impact both economic stability and national security.
To address these concerns, the Prime Minister has appointed a new Visa Policy Committee to review existing measures. The MFA will submit data on problems related to the 60-day visa-free scheme and other loopholes to the committee for prompt consideration and corrective action.
The Cabinet also acknowledged the implementation of several short-term measures, including the designation of 93 countries/territories eligible for the 60-day visa exemption, the initial granting of Visa on Arrival (VoA) privileges to 31 countries, the introduction of the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) for remote workers, and improvements to student visa categories (Non-Immigrant ED Plus) to allow study and employment in Thailand.
For medium-term reforms, Thailand has simplified its Non-Immigrant visa structure by reducing visa codes from 17 to 7, effective from 31 August 2025. The e-Visa system has also been expanded to cover all 94 Thai embassies and consulates worldwide since 1 January 2025, enabling applicants to submit visas online.
In the long term, the Immigration Bureau has launched the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC), or online TM.6 system, to replace the former ETA system, effective from 1 May 2025.
Additional measures under consideration include expanding the list of VoA-eligible countries in Phase II and revising Long-Stay visa criteria to attract high-potential foreign retirees. The government believes these initiatives will continue to support sustainable growth in Thailand’s tourism sector and overall economy.
News Source: Thairath