Thailand to Reduce Visa-Free Stay to 30 Days to Curb Illegal Businesses

Thailand is planning to shorten its visa-free keep from 60 days to 30 days to stop misuse of the system by foreigners participating in unlawful companies. The Tourism and Sports activities Ministry confirmed that associated authorities have agreed in precept to this alteration.

Tourism and Sports activities Minister Sorawong Thienthong mentioned the Overseas Ministry had mentioned this challenge with stakeholders, who supported the transfer. Nonetheless, additional discussions are wanted earlier than the brand new rule is formally introduced.

In July 2024, Thailand expanded its visa-free program, permitting passport holders from 93 nations, together with Laos, to remain for as much as 60 days. Beforehand, this privilege was solely obtainable to residents of 57 nations. Nonetheless, tourism companies raised considerations, noting that the majority long-haul vacationers keep for under 14-21 days, whereas short-haul guests often keep round seven days.

The Affiliation of Thai Journey Brokers warned that the prolonged keep interval has led to a rise in foreigners illegally working or working companies. The Thai Lodges Affiliation additionally identified that it has contributed to the rise in condos being illegally rented out each day.

In response to those considerations, the Tourism Ministry has instructed the Tourism Division to strictly implement legal guidelines governing tourism companies and tour guides. A particular joint activity drive, together with the Tourism Division and Vacationer Police, is actively investigating unlawful actions in main vacationer locations equivalent to Phuket, Chiang Mai, Pattaya, Hua Hin, Koh Samui, and Bangkok.

In 2024, authorities revoked the licenses of 40 tour corporations discovered responsible of fixing their approved administrators and shareholder constructions illegally. In Phuket alone, 15 tour corporations misplaced their licenses as a result of comparable violations. Moreover, a Thai particular person was found to be registered underneath 5 totally different firm names.

The federal government continues to crack down on foreigners utilizing Thai nominees to run companies, with stricter enforcement anticipated to observe as soon as the visa-free keep discount is finalized.