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Australians planning to visit Thailand will now face new travel restrictions, as the Thai government has decided to end the 60-day visa-free entry policy.
Previously, travelers from over 90 countries—including Australia, the UK, Germany, China, the US, India, Japan, and South Korea—could enjoy up to 60 days in Thailand without needing a visa since July 2024.
This policy change mostly reinstates the earlier 30-day limit for visa-free visits. However, Thailand’s foreign ministry has indicated that the duration of stay might differ for some countries, depending on reciprocal visa agreements.
The Bangkok Post has confirmed that Australians will revert to the 30-day visa-free entry period.
Tourists can still extend their stay in Thailand by applying through the local immigration office, as stated by a government spokesperson to Agence France-Presse.
Thai authorities say the tougher rules are aimed at addressing growing concerns about the misuse of extended visa-free stays and the involvement of some foreign nationals in criminal activity.
A recent series of high-profile arrests involving foreigners has included alleged offences linked to drugs, sex trafficking and the operation of businesses such as hotels, bars and schools without the required permits.
Thai officials believe the longer visa-free period created opportunities for some people to effectively live and work in the country without proper visas.
Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul said returning to the 30-day visa-free period was “more suitable for the current situation, both in terms of the economy and national security”.
Thai crackdown on abuse of immigration system
Thailand has increasingly focused on tightening border controls and immigration enforcement amid concerns about transnational crime networks operating across south-east Asia.
Thai foreign minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow said the reduction in visa-free stays formed part of a broader crackdown on organised criminal activity and abuse of Thailand’s immigration system.
He stressed that Thailand was not targeting any specific nationality, but rather individuals who use tourist exemptions to commit crimes or operate illegally in the country.
Thailand remains one of the most popular overseas destinations for Australians, according to Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade data, with strong demand for travel to Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai and Koh Samui.
Airlines continue to operate frequent direct flights between Australia and Thailand from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth.
The revised visa settings also come as Thailand introduces additional border monitoring measures.
International visitors are now required to complete a digital arrival card before entering the country, part of efforts to improve immigration tracking and security screening.
— With additional reporting by Agence France-Presse.
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