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ResourcesVisa & Immigration LawThailand Immigration LawThai "Consular Officials" Meet to Cut Visa Exemption?

Thai "Consular Officials" Meet to Cut Visa Exemption?

Transcript of the above video: 

As the title of this video suggests, we are discussing the Visa Exemption and that there has been a recent meeting of high-level Ministry of Foreign Affairs officials to discuss the reduction of the visa exemption. So Visa Exemptions are the stamp that you get upon arrival in Thailand that operates in lieu of a Visa. And understand, there is a difference between having a Visa and having a Visa exemption; they are two different things.

As of now, as at the time of this video, it is possible for those from approximately 93 countries including most of the Anglosphere, including most of Europe, to come into Thailand and receive 60 days on arrival. It now appears that there are plans in motion to cut that back to 30 days on arrival moving forward. That said, quoting directly from a recent article in the Bangkok Post, bangkokpost.com, the article is titled: MFA proposes slashing Visa-free tourist period in half. Quoting directly: "The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has proposed reducing the Visa-free tourist period from 60 to 30 days citing National Security concerns. Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow said on Tuesday the proposed adjustment would not affect tourism and would help strengthen national security, citing reports of foreign visitors misusing the scheme for purposes other than travelling. Minister Sihasak discussed the proposal as he chaired a seminar, running from Tuesday to Friday, that brings together Consular Officials from Thai Embassies, Consulates and Trade Offices worldwide." 

So again, as we have discussed in other videos, the 60-day exemption is being heavily discussed. It has apparently, it is my understanding it has been sent to the Cabinet. We have yet to see a full resolution on this policy to actually see an actual policy change enacted. Folks have asked me what I think the timing on this is. I expect they will probably do something of a notice period, and then they will put into effect that folks coming into Thailand will no longer get 60 days visa exempt but will get 30 days. 

Now how long that notice period is remains to be seen, so we will certainly be keeping you updated on this channel as the situation evolves.