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If you too are planning to visit the beautiful beaches of Thailand, nightlife of Bangkok or Phuket during this summer holidays, then this news is very important for you. Taking a major U-turn, the Thai government has announced to completely discontinue the 60-day visa-free entry facility being run for citizens of 93 countries including Indians. This proposal has been officially approved in the Thai Cabinet meeting, after which now the period and rules of stay there for Indian travelers are going to change completely.
The scheme was started after Corona, why was the U-turn taken?
Thailand started this liberal policy in July 2024 to boost its sluggish economy and tourism industry after the pandemic. Under this, Indian tourists were allowed to stay in the country for a full 2 months (60 days) without any visa hassle. However, over the past few months, Thai authorities have found that this long visa-free period is being abused on a large scale. Cases of foreign nationals running illegal business under the guise of tourism, working without permits, operating online scam hubs and indulging in criminal activities like drug and human trafficking have increased rapidly. In view of this ‘security risk’ the government has had to take this tough step.
What will change for Indian travelers now? Know the new rules
According to information received from Thailand’s Foreign Ministry and Cabinet, the new rule will work on the principle of ‘One Country, One Privilege’ (one country, one visa privilege). Under this, the new rules will come into force exactly 15 days after their publication in the official Gazette.
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Withdrawal of Visa on Arrival (VoA): Indian citizens will no longer enjoy the benefit of visa-free entry as before. India has now been put in the ‘Visa on Arrival’ category.
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Dwelling period will be reduced: After the implementation of the new rules, Indian tourists will be able to stay in Thailand only for 15 days. If one is going for a long period of time (like a wedding, business conference or slow travel), one will have to apply for an e-Visa in advance or get approval from the local Immigration Office, which will no longer be automatic.
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Relief to already existing tourists: If you entered Thailand before the new rules came into effect, the 60-day stamp on your passport will remain fully valid. The new rules will not be applicable with back-date.
Thailand’s focus on ‘quality tourism’, burden on pocket will increase
According to Thailand’s Tourism and Sports Minister Surasak Pancharonvorakul, the government is now focusing on attracting ‘quality tourists’ rather than just increasing the number of tourists. The government aims to strengthen national security along with earning revenue. Indian travel agencies say that this decision will be a blow to those tourists who used to plan long combined trips to Thailand with places like Cambodia, Vietnam or Malaysia. Now travelers will have to plan their travel within 15 days or go through additional documentation and biometric processes for e-Visa, which can make trip planning a bit complicated and expensive.
