Thailand has long been the destination of choice for Malaysians to have their vacation due to its cheap food and visa-free policy, which allows them to stay for up to 60 days.
However, that policy is expected to undergo drastic changes after Thai officials expressed concern over foreigners exploiting the policy to engage in illegal activities.
Visa-free stays to be reduced from 60 to 30 days
According to a report by The Bangkok Post, the 60-day visa-free policy is currently applicable to 93 countries, including Malaysia, since its introduction in July 2024.
Unfortunately, it has been abused by tourists, with the Association of Thai Travel Agents claiming an increasing number of foreigners are working illegally or conducting businesses in the country.
The Thai Hotels Association also concurred, saying it was to be partially blamed for the rise in condos being rented out illegally to guests daily.
Furthermore, tourism operators in Thailand argued that granting visa-free stays of up to 60 days was unnecessary, noting that long-haul tourists only spend 14-21 days on average, while short-haul tourists spend less than two weeks per trip or around seven days on average.
Thai Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong said the issue was acknowledged by the Foreign Ministry and that the move was discussed with related stakeholders over the past few weeks.
Additional details on the visa-free stay reduction is expected to be unveiled before the new policy comes into effect.
Here’s the full list of countries that will be affected by the reduced visa-free policy:
What do you think of this revised policy? Share with us in the comment section!
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