Thailand takes a drastic measure for foreign tourists, including those from Romania: the visa-free stay period will be halved
The Thai authorities are preparing important changes for foreign tourists, including Romanians. The government in Bangkok plans to reduce the visa-free stay from 60 to 30 days for citizens of 93 countries amid growing concerns about illegal activities by some foreigners.
Tourists Thailand PHOTO: pixabay
The announcement was made by Thailand's Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkaeow, who said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs would submit a formal proposal to the Cabinet for approval of the new rules.
“The measures are intended to respond to concerns regarding the misuse of extended visas and the involvement of some tourists in illegal activities,” the Thai official said, according to the Independent.
Currently, citizens of 93 countries, including Romania, can enter Thailand without a visa for a period of up to 60 days, a facility introduced in July 2024 to support the relaunch of tourism after the pandemic.
But the new measures come amid growing tensions between locals and expat communities in tourist areas such as Phuket and Koh Phangan.
The authorities were pressured to intervene after numerous allegations that foreign nationals were operating businesses illegally, using companies registered in the names of Thai nationals to avoid restrictions on foreign ownership.
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul said the government does not want to completely eliminate the visa-free regime, but is trying to find a balance between safety and maintaining the country's tourist appeal.
“Free visas do not mean unconditional access. We need to find the best balance,” said the Thai Prime Minister.
The government also announced tighter controls for other visa categories, including those for students, investors and digital nomads.
In parallel, authorities are conducting operations against businesses illegally run by foreigners in popular tourist resorts.
In Phuket, police recently arrested 33 foreign nationals, including Russians and Chinese, accused of violating laws on foreign-owned businesses.
