Visas in Thailand: the great leap backwards

It was just two years ago, but it already feels like a century. In June 2024, the Thai government and the Tourism Authority of Thailand celebrated a real breakthrough in opening up the kingdom to international visitors.

The government of the time, led by its Prime Minister, Srettha Thavisin, decided to grant a 60-day visa-free stay to tourists from 93 countries and territories, up from the previous 57. At the time, this strategy was designed to boost local tourism, which had become the country’s leading economic sector, accounting for an estimated 12% to 15% of GDP.

Two years later and the atmosphere is no longer quite one of celebration. Another government has been in place in Bangkok since the end of 2025, led by Anutin Charnvirakul, an ultra-nationalist with xenophobic overtones. Since he came to power, the media have constantly been denouncing the abuses generated by foreigners visiting or residing in Thailand, against a backdrop of scams and proxies circumventing local laws. This active minority has consequently dictated a tightening of entry conditions for foreigners into the country.

As of September 15, the free 60-day visa granted on arrival will be a thing of the past. Thailand is returning to the 30-day rule, with the option to renew this duration once during the stay (for an administrative fee). The number of nations authorised to stay without a visa has also been revised downwards: 60 countries are among the lucky few, including all European Union nationals. No African country appears on this list with the exception of wealthy South Africa. Thus, Morocco and Tunisia are de facto excluded and must apply for a visa online.

Another restriction: land border crossings are now limited to two entries per year, in order to reduce the number of foreign nationals leaving the country for a few days to Laos or Malaysia to get another 30-day visa... On the other hand, travellers have no restriction when travelling by plane, provided they do not stay for more than 180 days a year.

While it is true that few business travellers will be affected by these new measures, Thailand risks suffering more in terms of its image. By removing visa-free entry for some thirty nationalities, Thailand is tarnishing, of its own accord, its reputation as a country renowned for its legendary hospitality.