The visa-free stay period for tourists from 93 countries will be cut to help prevent criminal activity, the foreign minister said.
Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkaeow said on Tuesday that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will submit a plan to the Cabinet for approval to reduce the visa-free stay period for foreign tourists to 30 days from 60 days, but did not say when.
In addition, authorities will check other visa types to ensure that individuals entering the country comply with the purpose of that visa.
The measures are designed to address concerns about the misuse of extended visas and the involvement of some tourists in illegal activities.
From Jan 1 to May 10 this year, Thailand has received 12.4 million foreign tourists, a decrease of 3.43% compared to the same period last year. — Reuters
