Thailand is taking a clear step towards a stricter visa policy. Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul wants all existing visa rules to be reviewed, from tourist visas to visas for students and investors. The government believes that the lenient entry into the country leaves too much room for abuse in certain areas.
For travelers, expats, and long-term residents, this means that Thailand will take a more critical look at who enters the country and under what conditions. The government says that the country must remain attractive, but that economic interests and national security must be better balanced.
All visa categories are being scrutinized.
Government spokeswoman Rachada Dhnadirek announced on Monday that Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul urged for better visa rules during a meeting with ministers from his Bhumjaithai party. The revision applies to all visas issued by Thailand.
This includes visas for tourists, students, and investors, among others. Deputy Prime Minister Pakorn Nilprapunt has been tasked with overseeing the process. According to the government, there is growing concern that the increasingly lenient admission rules are leading to problems that require more oversight.
Cabinet wants committee for stricter screening
Minister of Tourism and Sports Surasak Phancharoenworakul said that the consultations primarily revolved around the question of whether Thailand has found the right balance between accessibility and supervision. The country is easy to visit, but according to him, that ease also has disadvantages.
The cabinet is expected to establish a committee on Tuesday to review all criteria for Thai visas. That committee must make proposals to strengthen screening without damaging Thailand's international appeal.
60-day visa-free stay expires
According to Minister Surasak, the current arrangement allowing visitors to stay in Thailand visa-free for 60 days will come to an end. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is submitting the proposal to the Cabinet for approval.
Under the new approach, visitors are subject to stricter checks. A visa or visa-free entry is no longer considered sufficient proof that someone is financially sound or can enter the country without risk. The government wants to better understand who is visiting Thailand and for what purpose.
Thailand chooses quality over quantity
The Minister of Tourism emphasized that Thailand no longer focuses primarily on the number of visitors. According to him, higher arrival figures do not automatically lead to more revenue or sustainable economic benefits.
Prime Minister Anutin said earlier on Monday that adjusting visa-free entry requires consultation between multiple agencies. Thailand wants to continue stimulating tourism and economic growth, while simultaneously better protecting national security interests. According to him, visa-free travel does not mean that everyone enters without conditions.
Thailand has made it clear that its tourism policy is changing. The focus is no longer on the highest number of visitors, but on visitors who contribute economically and meet stricter conditions. For travelers, this means that preparation, proper documentation, and financial substantiation are becoming more important.
Source: Bangkok Post
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