Following the Thai government’s May 19 announcement to end the 60-day visa-free stay for travellers from 93 countries, the country’s travel trade is calling for clearer implementation guidelines.
While key industry associations are not opposed to the shorter duration, they warn that uncertainty surrounding the revised entry process could disrupt operations and affect inbound travel demand.
Thienprasit Chaiyapatranun, president of the Thai Hotels Association, said the policy adjustment itself is manageable, but the lack of clarity around implementation is a concern.
“From our observations, a 30-day stay is generally sufficient for most actual travellers. However, we are primarily concerned about the updated entry process for key markets like China and India,” Thienprasit said.
The Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA) echoed these views, saying the reduced duration is not the main issue.
“There will not be any significant impact on the tourist market, provided the visa exemption status remains intact and only the permitted length of stay is reduced,” said Adith Chairattananon, ATTA honorary secretary-general.
However, Adith noted growing confusion among international partners over what arrangements will apply once the 60-day scheme is revoked.
“The government has not issued any further announcements clarifying supporting measures post-cancellation. There has been no official release confirming if markets like India will retain their visa exemption for the 30-day period,” Adith explained.
Although the policy has yet to be implemented, both associations said they have already received numerous enquiries from overseas clients and trade partners, particularly from China, Taiwan and India.
Adith stressed the need for a coordinated public communications effort from the government.
“A lack of clarity is a major problem. Without definitive guidelines, incoming foreign visitors will not know how to proceed, which could ultimately deter them from travelling,” he said.
Thienprasit also warned of reputational risks linked to a poorly communicated rollout and urged the Ministry of Tourism and Sports and other government agencies to issue a country-by-country breakdown of the revised entry rules.
