Thailand: Visa-Free Stays Reduced for 90 Countries, Impact on Expats

• Reduction from 30 to 15 days. Thailand reduces visa-free stay duration for tourists from over 90 countries, from 30 to 15 days.
• Objective: combat crime. The Thai government justifies this measure by the need to limit illegal activities carried out by foreigners on extended stays.
• Announced on May 19, 2026. The decision was formalized by Thai authorities and reported by Cambodianess.
• Direct impact on Siem Reap expats. Foreign residents of Cambodia who frequently travel back and forth to Thailand will need to adjust their travel plans.
• No change for standard visas. Tourist visas (60 days) and long-term visas (retirement, work, education) are not modified.

The Thai decision is part of a tightening of immigration policies in the region. Here are the key steps:

1. Early 2026: Increase in reports of crime involving foreigners in Thailand, especially in tourist areas and border towns.
2. March 2026: The Thai government announces a review of visa-free entry policies, citing abuses.
3. April 2026: Consultations with the Ministries of Interior and Tourism result in a proposal to reduce the duration.
4. May 19, 2026: Official announcement of the reduction from 30 to 15 days for nationals of over 90 countries.
5. June 2026 (expected): Effective implementation of the new rule at all Thai entry points.

The measure mainly concerns countries benefiting from a visa-free regime with Thailand. Here is the breakdown by segment:

• Limited quick trips to Thailand. Expats who made back-and-forth trips to renew their visa or for getaways will now need to plan shorter stays or opt for a standard tourist visa.
• Increase in Thai visa applications. Expats wishing to stay more than 15 days will need to apply for a tourist visa (60 days) or a special visa (retirement, work).
• Shift to Cambodia. Some digital nomads may choose to extend their stay in Cambodia rather than make back-and-forth trips to Thailand.
• Impact on air travel. Low-cost airlines connecting Siem Reap to Bangkok, Pattaya, or Phuket may see a drop in long-stay passengers.
• Need to check rules. Expats must now verify the exact duration granted to their nationality before traveling, as some countries may be excluded or have different conditions.

1. Check your nationality. Consult the official website of the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs to know the exact duration granted to your passport.
2. Plan your stays. If you plan to stay more than 15 days, apply for a tourist visa (60 days) at the Thai embassy or consulate in Phnom Penh.
3. Do not overstay. Overstaying, even by one day, can result in a fine of 500 baht per day and a risk of being banned from re-entry.
4. Use land border crossings cautiously. Border posts like Poipet or Koh Kong may enforce stricter rules; bring all necessary documents.
5. Consider alternatives. If you travel to Thailand frequently, a multiple-entry tourist visa (METV) may be more suitable.
6. Follow updates. Rules can change quickly; subscribe to alerts from the Thai embassy in Cambodia.