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IN BRIEF
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Thailand, this gem of Southeast Asia, is caught in a real dance of formalities for travelers. While the country had established a 60-day visa-free stay to attract tourists, rumors are now floating about a possible return to the old regulation of 30 days. This development, which could affect a wide range of nationalities, including the French, is accompanied by concerns related to observed abuses. Between simplifications and new challenges, Thai authorities seem to be navigating turbulent waters, trying to find a balance between welcoming tourists and combating exploitative practices.
In recent weeks, Thailand appears to be juggling issues of entry requirements that leave more than one traveler puzzled. Indeed, the possibility of a return to the 30-day visa exemption for foreign visitors is on everyone’s lips. While the country has recently extended the visa-free stay to 60 days for many foreigners, discussions are emerging about a possible return to the old standard. In this article, we dive into the reasons, implications, and new measures that could affect your next trip to Thailand.
A return to basics: what is on the horizon? #
Thailand has long been a popular destination for foreign travelers, not only for its sunny beaches and rich culture but also thanks to favorable visa exemption policies. However, since summer 2024, citizens of 93 countries, including those from the European Union, benefit from a visa-free stay of up to 60 days. A change aimed at revitalizing the tourism sector after the pandemic.
However, voices are being raised to report abuses supervised in certain local businesses, where foreign employees are kept on Thai soil during these two months under the pretext of tourism. This raises some concerns among the authorities, who now seem inclined to reduce the length of stay to 30 days. This measure could be devastating for vacationers who have become accustomed to this extended period.
The dilemma of welcoming versus regulating #
This potential return to a 30-day visa exemption illustrates well the dilemma Thailand is facing: facilitating tourist arrivals while fighting against observed abuses. The struggle to attract maximum visitors could well be thwarted by the necessity of maintaining socio-professional order within the national territory. As the country aspires to regain a flourishing economic dynamic, the challenge of having suitable regulations could further complicate the management of tourist and economic flows.
A digitization of arrival formalities #
As new entry assessment measures come into effect, the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC), reintroduced from May 1st, promises to bring a touch of modernity to entry formalities. This digital form, which replaces the traditional paper document, must be completed within 72 hours before arrival. Whether one is a tourist or a businessman, it will be imperative to go through this simplified procedure to enter the country.
À lire the classic and sports car show in the United Kingdom on June 7th and 8th, 2025
A look to the future: Electronic Travel Authorization #
Alongside discussions on the visa exemption, Thailand plans to implement an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) by the end of 2025. Inspired by the ESTA system used by the United States, this measure will encourage even more people to think about the terms of their travel to Thailand. With these new obligations, which could include advanced stay estimates, it is certain that Thailand is committed to modernizing its approach to passengers, even though the details remain unclear.
Ultimately, the complex fabric of entry requirements in Thailand has generated much discussion, and the renegotiation of the visa exemption concerns not just numbers but also the economy, tourism, and the international perception of the destination. Travelers will have to stay informed to adapt to these potential changes.
