Pattaya faces surge in Indian tourists amid free visa policies, leading to increased crime and tensions on beaches.
PATTAYA, Thailand – In recent months, Pattaya has experienced an unexpected surge of Indian tourists, a direct result of Thailand's new free visa policy targeting visitors from India. While this move was intended to boost tourism, it has sparked an array of concerns among locals and tourists alike. Many of these Indian visitors have descended on Pattaya's beaches, with a noticeable number seeking out service women for companionship, a practice that has contributed to an increase in both thefts and physical attacks.
The combination of unfamiliarity with local norms and the display of expensive valuables, such as jewelry and high-end electronics, has made many of these tourists prime targets for criminals. Incidents of theft have escalated, with reports of wallets, watches, gold necklaces, phones and even larger items being stolen. Worse still, some tourists have been physically attacked during robbery attempts.
While the free visa policy aimed to boost the economy by attracting more visitors, it has led to tensions and growing dissatisfaction. As one local commented, "You're welcome, now a recipe for disaster in most places. I will be keeping away as usual…" Another person shared their frustration, saying, "You had me at 'Russian and Indian tourists.' I will be taking my well-earned money someplace else."
Pattaya's beach areas, once a place for relaxation and enjoyment, now feel increasingly overwhelmed by large groups of tourists, many of whom, as another remark stated, have transformed the streets into chaotic, overcrowded zones. "What could be better than city streets teeming with Indian tourists?" questioned a disgruntled visitor, highlighting the growing sense of discomfort among those who once frequented the area for its laid-back atmosphere.
As Pattaya grapples with this sudden shift, local authorities are under pressure to address the rise in crime and ensure that both tourists and locals feel safe. While the free visa initiative has helped boost visitor numbers, it's clear that the consequences of such policies require urgent attention.
Bangkok, Thailand – March 23, 2025 – Thailand's tourism industry, a cornerstone of the nation's economy, is once again at the center of a policy debate as the government wavers on a proposal to reduce visa-free stays for foreign tourists from 60 days to 30 days. The Pattaya News has been covering this proposal for weeks, such as here.
Initially introduced in July 2024 to boost tourism, the 60-day visa exemption for citizens of 93 countries has been hailed as a success by many in the travel sector. However, recent concerns over illegal business activities, petty crime, regular stories of tourists being arrested and involved in fights, and overstays have prompted discussions about rolling back this progressive measure—a move that has yet to gain firm footing amid mixed reactions and ongoing deliberations.
The Tourism and Sports Ministry, led by Minister Sorawong Thienthong, first floated the idea of cutting the visa-free period in early March 2025, citing the need to curb the misuse of the exemption by foreigners engaging in illegal jobs or unauthorized business ventures.
The ministry pointed to reports from local travel and hospitality associations, which claimed that some visitors were exploiting the extended stay to operate under-the-table enterprises, such as renting out accommodations without proper licenses. This crackdown aligns with broader efforts to regulate foreign activity in popular tourist hubs like Phuket, Chiang Mai, and Pattaya, where authorities have already revoked licenses of 40 companies in 2024 for violating tourism business regulations.
Yet, as of March 23, 2025, no final decision has been made. Sources within the government indicate that while authorities have agreed "in principle" to the reduction, the Foreign Ministry and other stakeholders remain cautious about its potential impact. Thailand welcomed over 14.3 million tourists from January to May 2024, with ambitions to surpass 40 million arrivals in 2025—a record-breaking target that hinges on maintaining the country's appeal to international visitors.
The 60-day visa-free policy has been credited with driving this surge, particularly among long-stay travelers from key markets like China, India, Russia, and the United States. Rolling it back to 30 days risks alienating these visitors, many of whom have embraced the flexibility to explore Thailand's beaches, temples, and vibrant cities at a leisurely pace.
Some industry voices are pushing back against the proposed change. The Association of Thai Travel Agents has warned that shortening the visa-free period could dampen demand, especially among digital nomads and retirees who have flocked to Thailand under the expanded scheme. "The 60-day policy has been a game-changer," said Somsak Preechasilp, a spokesperson for a Phuket-based tourism coalition. "It's brought in people who spend more time and money here. Cutting it back sends the wrong signal when we're trying to recover and grow."
Public sentiment, as reflected in posts on social media, mirrors this uncertainty. Some users lament the potential rollback, with one calling it "a shame" and highlighting the appeal of the 60-day stay for travelers planning extended trips. Others acknowledge the government's concerns but question whether a blanket reduction is the best solution, suggesting stricter enforcement of crime, background checks, better Immigration screening or targeted measures instead against specific countries and nationalities with repeat offenders.
The hesitation stems in part from Thailand's delicate balancing act: Fostering tourism while addressing security and regulatory challenges. The 60-day exemption, along with other options like the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) for remote workers, has positioned the country as a forward-thinking destination.
However, the rise in overstays and illegal activities has fueled calls for tighter controls. The Tourism Department, alongside the Tourist Police, has intensified inspections in key areas, but critics argue that reducing the visa-free period could punish law-abiding visitors rather than solving the root issues.
For now, the government remains in a holding pattern. The Tourism and Sports Ministry has promised further discussions to refine the proposal, with no set timeline for a final ruling. Natthriya Thaweevong, the ministry's permanent secretary, emphasized that any decision would weigh both economic benefits and national interests. "We're not rushing into this," she said in a recent statement. "We want to get it right."
As Thailand navigates this crossroads, the stakes are high. The 60-day visa-free policy has been a lifeline for an industry still rebounding from the Covid pandemic, yet the specter of misuse looms large. Whether the government opts to maintain the status quo, revert to 30 days, or find a middle ground, the outcome will shape Thailand's reputation as a welcoming destination for years to come.
Photo credit: Jomtien Beach by Adam Judd for the Pattaya News.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs admits that no changes in visa policy have actually been agreed yet by the government. Spokesman Nikorndej Balankura told the press that he was responding to widespread publicity, locally and internationally, that the 60 days visa exempt entries were to be cut to 30 days. He admitted that most (but not all) bona fide tourists stay in Thailand for less than one month before moving on.
The no-charge discretion was introduced in July 2024 to boost international arrivals from 93 countries which provide the bulk of tourist numbers to Thailand. The 60 days can be extended at local immigration offices for a further month on payment of 1,900 baht (US$54) and proof of having officially reported a Thai address. The system has been welcomed internationally as wonderfully non-bureaucratic and user friendly.
The argument for reducing the discretion is that foreign criminals have allegedly used the new policy to indulge in bad behaviour such as illegal working, establishing nominee companies contrary to business laws and fraudulently renting out condominium units to holidaymakers. Much of the negative publicity has centred on Chinese nationals, especially in Bangkok and resort cities such as Phuket and Pattaya.
The contrary argument is that foreign wannabe criminals are not deterred by changes in visa regulations. Many crimes can be accomplished in days rather than weeks or months and are often masterminded remotely on the internet. For example, illegal renting out of condo units is arranged via adverts on the internet with payment often made by credit card to bank accounts located overseas.
Sceptics also point out that some foreign criminals already have longstay visas, such as Elite or Long Term Residence, and are not deterred by technical immigration changes which do not affect them in any case. Even if the 60 days visa exempt was reduced to one month, extensions of a further 30 days would still be available at local immigration unless specifically stopped by the immigration bureau.
Some immigration gurus say the current policy will likely remain untouched, but that the digital TM6 landing card – due to be introduced for all foreign arrivals from May 1 – will be integrated into other immigration data bases to weed out unwelcome guests of the kingdom. The new digital check will require full personal details including phone number, full local address and travel plans. The actual online form has not yet been publicly released.
Their Majesties the King and Queen of Thailand inaugurated the new Midfield Satellite 1 terminal and Third Runway at Suvarnabhumi Airport, marking a major milestone in the nation's aviation history.
BANGKOK, Thailand – Their Majesties the King and Queen of Thailand officially inaugurated the Midfield Satellite 1 (SAT-1) terminal and the Third Runway at Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) on 20 March 2025. This significant occasion was part of the celebrations commemorating His Majesty the King's 6th Cycle Birthday Anniversary on 28 July 2024.
These developments were undertaken by Airports of Thailand (AOT) to accommodate the growing number of travelers and aircraft using Suvarnabhumi Airport. Built in accordance with international standards, the SAT-1 terminal will increase the airport's capacity by 15 million passengers per year. SAT-1 and the main terminal are seamlessly connected thanks to its Automated People Mover (APM) system.
Moreover, for its outstanding exterior design, SAT-1 earned Suvarnabhumi Airport the 2024 Prix Versailles Award in the Architecture category. Suvarnabhumi Airport is recognized as one of the most aesthetically pleasing airports in the world with this UNESCO-endorsed award.
The Third Runway, complementing the SAT-1 terminal, will significantly improve the airport's operating efficiency by allowing it to accommodate up to 94 flights per hour. The goal of this development is to reduce air traffic congestion and enhance the standard of service for all airlines using Suvarnabhumi Airport. (PRD)
The expansion will increase Suvarnabhumi's capacity by 15 million passengers annually, ensuring the airport stays ahead of the growing demand for air travel.Suvarnabhumi Airport's SAT-1 terminal earned the prestigious 2024 Prix Versailles Award for its exceptional exterior design, solidifying its place as one of the world's most visually stunning airports.
With the addition of the Third Runway, Suvarnabhumi Airport will now handle up to 94 flights per hour, reducing congestion and elevating its operational efficiency.The expansion project, which includes the SAT-1 terminal and Third Runway, celebrates His Majesty the King's 6th Cycle Birthday Anniversary and his enduring commitment to Thailand's progress.
A pedestrian on a hot walkway in strong sunlight, along Ploenchit Road in Bangkok. (Photo: Chanat Katanyu)
Temperatures are rising as the hot season settles in and health authorities are warning people to stay out of the sun if possible with the heat index having already hit the orange "dangerous to health" level.
The heat index for March 5-14 showed temperatures of 42-51.9ºC in some areas, which was considered dangerous to health. People in the southern, central, eastern and northeastern regions were all at risk, a top health official said
People should check the weather forecast and avoid outdoor activities if possible, and drink water frequently, during hot weather, Thiti Sawangtham, deputy director-general of the Department of Health, said.
Heat rash, heat exhaustion and heat stroke could lead to death, Dr Thiti said.
The most sensitive groups were the elderly, the obese, outdoor workers and imbibers of alcohol, and people with underlying health conditions including mental issues, he said.
On Tuesday, the Department of Meteorological reported 10 provinces where temperatures peaked at 38-39ºC on Monday, all in the North.
The upper part of Thailand would see cooler temperatures through to Saturday as cold air now covered parts of the Northeast. The forecast was for strong winds, but less rainfall, the report said.
The weather from March 23-28would get to hot to very hot again. There would be scattered summer storms, especially from March 29into next month. However, this summer was not expected to be as hot as last year, it said.
Foreign arrivals wait to go through the immigration process at Suvarnabhumi airport. (Bangkok Post file photo)
The period of visa-free stays in Thailand is set to be reduced from 60 days to 30 days as related authorities have agreed in principle to the move in an effort to curb the risk of illegal businesses exploiting the visa exemption scheme, according to the Tourism and Sports Ministry.
Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong said the Foreign Ministry acknowledged the issue as it had been widely discussed among all related stakeholders in the past few weeks.
He said they all agreed in principle to reduce the period of stay from 60 days to 30 days for citizens from countries granted a visa exemption under the programme. However, additional details would be discussed before formally announcing the adjustment to the regulation.
Since July 2024, the government has allowed passport holders from 93 countries to enter Thailand for tourism purposes for a period not exceeding 60 days. This had earlier been granted to citizens of 57 countries.
However, tourism operators expressed concern over the extended period as long-haul tourists typically stayed for only 14-21 days on average, while short-haul travellers spent less than two weeks per trip or around seven days on average.
The Association of Thai Travel Agents earlier raised this concern with the ministry as there is a growing number of foreigners illegally working or conducting businesses in the country, while the Thai Hotels Association believed this was partly to blame for the increase in the number of condos being illegally rented out to guests on a daily basis.
Given the recent call by a former member of parliament in Phuket urging the government to crack down on foreign businesses using nominees and reduce the visa-free period to 30 days, Natthriya Thaweevong, the ministry's permanent secretary, said the ministry has instructed the Tourism Department to enforce the Tourism Business and Tourist Guide Act more seriously.
She said the special joint operational centre operated by six authorities, including the Tourism Department and Tourist Police, has consistently investigated illicit activities taking place in Phuket and five other popular tourism-related areas, namely Chiang Mai, Pattaya, Hua Hin, Koh Samui and Bangkok.
She said the department revoked the licences of 40 companies in 2024 as they were found guilty of secretly changing the authorised directors and the proportion of directors and shareholders, resulting in their disqualification from operating a tourism business.
In Phuket, 15 tour companies' licences have been revoked. She said there was also the case of a Thai committee of a tour company also being registered under five different company names.
The Thai government is set to reduce the visa-free stay period from 60 days to 30 days, following an agreement in principle by relevant authorities to prevent illegal businesses from exploiting the exemption scheme, according to the Tourism and Sports Ministry.
Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong stated that the Foreign Ministry acknowledged concerns raised by stakeholders in recent weeks. While the reduction has been agreed upon in principle, further discussions are needed before the regulation is officially adjusted.#ThailandNews#tourists 🧐
With a surge in British travellers to Thailand post-Covid, there is an increasing demand for consular assistance from the British Embassy in Bangkok.
In the past year, the embassy reported handling 2,007 assistance cases, encompassing various serious issues such as deaths, arrests, detentions, hospitalisations, and missing persons, illustrating the often-unforeseen challenges travellers may encounter abroad.
Deaths accounted for over a third of these cases, while more than 10 percent involved arrests, highlighting the need for urgent consular support in severe situations.
Additionally, the team provided over two thousand notarial services and issued around six hundred emergency passports, ensuring that British citizens receive essential consular services when needed.
With upwards of a million British visitors recorded in Thailand in 2024, the substantial caseload is hardly surprising.
Yet, it's crucial to understand that entry figures, often cited from Thai immigration records, can be misleading because they treat each arrival as a unique instance, irrespective of the frequent border-hopping and visa runs by expatriates, painting an exaggerated picture of tourist numbers.
Behind the stats, there are the heart-wrenching cases like the recent plight of pensioners desperate for assistance, such as Des and Mary Byrne.
Similarly, many accident victims on Thailand's notoriously perilous roads find themselves overwhelmed by hefty medical bills. These situations often trigger complaints from UK relatives regarding perceived inaction by the embassy.
It's important to remember that the embassy, like others, is limited in scope: it cannot settle personal debts, provide loans, or meddle in legal proceedings. Instead, it offers vital support such as contacting family, visiting institutions, and providing local legal contacts.
The British Foreign Office's extensive website details crucial advice for travellers, from property investment warnings to insistent reminders on securing adequate insurance—yet, it remains uncertain how many heed these pre-travel advisories.
As technology influences embassy operations, from digital correspondence to Zoom prison visits, consular work has evolved.
Embassies now require pre-booked appointments, spurred by the digitisation of many travel-related processes, leading to a decline in traditional face-to-face requirements. Within the next decade, physical passports might give way to enhanced digital credentials.
Ultimately, the changing face of consular services demands Britons and their families adjust their expectations and prepare diligently, acknowledging the reality that in moments of adversity, preparedness is paramount to navigating the complexities of international distress, reported Barry Kenyon for Pattaya Mail.
The Thai government is increasing flight capacity and cutting domestic airfare prices by 30% on certain popular routes to ease travel costs during the Songkran holiday from April 11 to 17, 2025.
On March 10th, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport Mr. Suriya Jungrungreangkit announced that the Ministry of Transport has held a meeting with relevant agencies to prepare for the Songkran festival from April 11-17.
To address the issue of rising airfares, the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) has been instructed to closely monitor ticket prices and conduct regular checks at Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang airports. Additionally, CAAT has been in talks with six airlines to reduce ticket prices, which typically rise during this high-demand travel period.
These airlines include Thai Airways International, Bangkok Airways, Thai AirAsia, Nok Air, Thai Lion Air, and Thai VietJet.
According to Mr. Suriya, these airlines will operate an additional 124 flights, adding a total of 25,000 extra seats. In addition, fares for popular domestic routes will be reduced by 30% from the maximum price to offer more affordable options for passengers.
In a statement posted on its official Facebook page, Thai Airways stated, "Thai Airways Implements Power Bank Regulations for Passenger Safety. Following incidents of in-flight fires on international airlines, suspected to be linked to power bank usage, Thai Airways International Public Company Limited has introduced new safety measures.
Effective March 15, 2025, the use of power banks will be prohibited while onboard the aircraft.
These measures are implemented to ensure the highest level of safety for passengers and crew. We kindly ask for your cooperation in adhering to these regulations and apologize for any inconvenience caused."
The airline urged passengers to comply with the new rule and thanked them for their cooperation.
Thailand is considering creating designated zones for alcohol consumption to cater to certain tourists, a move highlighted by the Public Health Minister. With an expected 35 million visitors this year, the government aims to enhance the tourist experience without conflicting with religious principles.
At a recent meeting of the National Alcohol Beverage Policy Committee, members discussed balancing tourism growth with health guidelines. The year has already shown success in tourism revenue, but some visitors are calling for more relaxed alcohol rules.
The minister emphasized creating drinking areas that respect cultural values while supporting tourism. The committee decided to maintain the five key Buddhist holy days as alcohol-free, focusing instead on popular tourist spots for these adjustments.
The Health Minister assured that health concerns are being considered, aligning with ministry guidelines. However, identifying specific locations for alcohol sales will be handled by other departments, reported The Thaiger.
Tourism operators are concerned about foreigners working and renting condos on a daily basis.
Online debate over granting 60-day visa exemptions for tourists has intensified, fuelled by a string of incidents involving condos in Bangkok being illegally rented out on a daily basis, specifically targeting tourists.
Tourism operators suggested adjusting the visa period to match the average length of stay to help allay these concerns.
These operators believe travellers who intend to extend their stay would not be affected, as the country offers several long-stay visa options specifically targeted at "high-quality" visitors.
Q: HOW MANY LONG-STAY VISAS ARE BEING PROMOTED?
There are three types of visas for foreigners seeking long stays in Thailand, each with different requirements and privileges: the Long-Term Resident Visa (LTV), Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) and the Thailand Privilege Card Visa.
In 2022, as the government sought to salve the bruised economy post-pandemic, the Board of Investment (BoI) was assigned to oversee a new 10-year LTV to specifically attract four groups: wealthy visitors, wealthy pensioners, professionals looking to work from Thailand, and highly skilled professionals.
The privileges also extend to an applicant's spouse and children.
According to the BoI, 6,000 people applied for the LTV, led by residents of Europe (2,500), the US (1,080), Japan (610), China (340) and India (280), as of January 2025.
After the initial two years, the requirements were relaxed in January for minimum annual income, work experience and the number of legal dependents, such as family members.
Wealthy citizens still must have at least US$1 million in assets under the applicant's name, but the requirement of minimum annual personal income of $80,000 was removed.
The government said the new priority is how visitors spend within the country given the remaining criteria, requiring a combined investment in government bonds, or direct investment in companies registered in Thailand, or Thai property worth at least $500,000.
For skilled professionals, work experience is no longer necessary, while the targeted jobs now include lecturers at higher education and vocational institutions who have the ability to improve the capabilities of Thai workers.
Likewise, the requirement for five years of work experience for work-from-Thailand professionals is eliminated, and the benchmark for their companies' revenue was lowered from $150 million to $50 million in the last three years, with wholly-owned subsidiaries included.
The quota for family members, which was previously limited to four, is also removed as applicants can bring all legal dependents with them.
Visitors using the LTV can enter Thailand an unlimited amount of times and are permitted to work here, with the personal income tax rate for those with specialised skills reduced to 17%.
Furthermore, the reporting period to the Immigration Bureau was relaxed from every 90 days to once a year.
Q: HOW DOES THE DTV DIFFER?
Amid stagnant domestic consumption, last year the government intensified its efforts to lure foreign revenue by issuing the DTV, meant to draw remote workers, freelancers and digital nomads in particular. This visa type provides more relaxed requirements than the LTV.
While the LTV is regarded as a lucrative tool to attract substantial investments from affluent travellers, the DTV targets those wanting to work while travelling or engaging in cultural activities in Thailand, such as Muay Thai courses or Thai cooking classes, as well as receiving medical treatment.
The duration of stay for the DTV is much shorter than the LTV, with a maximum of 180 days per entry. After spending six months in the kingdom, applicants have the option of extending their stay for another 180 days.
An extension payment of 10,000 baht means the visa is valid for five years and offers multiple entries within that period.
Foreigners applying for this visa must provide evidence of financial resources or a guarantee amounting to at least 500,000 baht, as well as provide evidence of an employment contract or employment certificate outside Thailand.
The Foreign Affairs Ministry is responsible for promoting the DTV and said the country should be able to draw global talent, stimulating income for local people.
However, some operators view this visa as competing with the government-backed Thailand Privilege Card.
The cheapest membership level of the Thailand Privilege Card is dubbed the bronze card and offers a five-year visa, but it requires a fee of 650,000 baht compared with 10,000 baht for the DTV.
The Thailand Privilege Card offers five membership categories, providing long-stay visas valid for 5-15 years. The top tier of membership is available by invitation only and is valid for up to 20 years.
Additional services available to card members include a personal assistant, fast-track and VIP services at airports, concierge services, personal liaisons and points that can be redeemed for lifestyle products such as golf, spa treatments, hotels and travel.
Thailand Privilege Card has nearly 38,000 members, half of them Chinese. The programme is operated by Thailand Privilege Card Co, with the Tourism Authority of Thailand as a major shareholder.
Thailand Privilege Card admitted the DTV would have some impact on its business. The company is in the process of creating new privileges to help maximise the value of membership and differentiate it from other long-stay visas.
Q: WHAT ARE THE ARGUMENTS REGARDING VISA EXEMPTIONS?
Last year the government expanded its visa exemption policy, granting citizens from 93 countries a stay of 60 days, up from 57 nations previously.
International students who have completed a bachelor's degree or higher in Thailand are also eligible for a Non-Immigrant Visa ED (Education), allowing them to extend their stay for up to one year to seek jobs, travel or engage in other activities.
While the tourism sector is expected to benefit from the policy, operators in the sector raised concerns regarding the two-month visa exemption period.
Many industry stakeholders, including the Association of Thai Travel Agents and the Thai Hotels Association (THA), said most tourists typically stay no longer than 30 days.
For Asian visitors, the average stay is usually around one week, while long-haul travellers tend to stay two weeks.
The extension to 60 days could create a loophole, potentially attracting individuals who may attempt to work illegally in Thailand without undergoing proper screening, said the associations.
The THA raised concerns these visitors might bypass hotels -- where guest details are reported to the Immigration Bureau -- and instead opt to rent condos or apartments.
The extension of the visa exemption policy could also lead to unease among local residents, particularly those living in the same properties as tourists, as highlighted in news reports and online debates over the past few weeks.
In response to these concerns, Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong said the ministry plans to hold discussions with tourism operators who raised these issues.
He said if security concerns persist, the period for visa exemptions may be reduced to 30 days.
