Thailand will reduce the length of visa-free stays for tourists from more than 60 countries and territories to 30 days, effective September 15, 2026, the foreign ministry announced on Tuesday.

The Thai Foreign Ministry’s consular affairs department said the new rule affects travelers from China, the United States, and 27 EU countries, among others.

Tourism is a major pillar of Thailand’s economy. But officials say the cut is part of efforts to tackle rising crime linked to foreign nationals.

Recent arrests have included foreigners accused of drug offences, sex trafficking, and running businesses such as hotels and schools without proper permits.

Under the current scheme, travelers from over 90 countries including the 29-nation Schengen area, China, India, the US and several South American nations can enter Thailand visa-free for up to 60 days.

From Sept 15, that will be halved to 30 days for over 60 countries.

The status for about 20 other countries remains unclear, with a foreign ministry official declining to comment.

However, visitors from Peru, Brazil and South Korea will get longer stays 90 days visa-free, up from 60 days previously.

Tourists will still be able to extend their stay once, at the discretion of an immigration officer, a government spokeswoman told AFP in May.

Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow said the reduction is part of a crackdown on people abusing the visa system to commit crimes in Thailand.

Thailand has recorded 20.9 million foreign tourists since the beginning of the year, a 3% drop compared to the same period in 2025.

Source: Thai Foreign Ministry, AFP