Thailand scraps 60-day visa-free entry after tourist misconduct
Viral videos of drunken brawls and thefts force Thailand to tighten visa rules.
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Thailand's 60-day visa-free entry, introduced in 2024 to revive tourism post-COVID, was officially revoked on May 19, 2026, after a surge in viral videos depicting foreign tourists engaged in drunken punch-ups, thefts, scams, and public indecency. The Thai authorities concluded that the longer visa did not significantly boost tourism receipts, as the average visitor stayed under 30 days. Under the new rules, only 54 countries and territories receive a 30-day visa exemption, down from 93. Three countries get a new 15-day visa scheme. In 2019, Thailand welcomed 39 million tourists; last year that number was 33 million. Between January and mid-May 2026, the kingdom saw 8.24 million short-haul arrivals, with China contributing 2.15 million. The visa revision signals Thailand's willingness to prioritize order and security over sheer visitor numbers.
- 60-day visa-free entry canceled for 93 countries; replaced with 30-day exemption for only 54 countries.
- Decision driven by viral videos of tourist misconduct and abuse of visa privilege.
- Thailand had 8.24 million short-haul visitors Jan-May 2026; China top source at 2.15 million.
Why It Matters
Travelers will face stricter entry rules; Thailand prioritizes safety and order over tourism volume.