Thailand Considers Shortening Visa-Free Stays for Chinese Tourists. Thailand is mulling a change to its tourist policy, potentially shortening visa-free stays for Chinese visitors. Currently, the visa-free duration stands at a generous 90 days. The new plan could see this slashed to a mere 30 days, according to Sorawong Thienthong, the Tourism and Sports Minister. ASEAN NOW

Photo courtesy of Invest Bangkok Property

 

Thailand is mulling a change to its tourist policy, potentially shortening visa-free stays for Chinese visitors. Currently, the visa-free duration stands at a generous 90 days. The new plan could see this slashed to a mere 30 days, according to Sorawong Thienthong, the Tourism and Sports Minister.

 

The reasoning is clear: most Chinese tourists don't linger for long. Mr. Thienthong highlighted that the majority leave by the 15-day mark. Exceptions exist, mostly among those eager to learn Thai boxing or culinary arts. Thus, he suggests that 30 days is just right.

 

Now, let's rewind a bit. In March 2025, a mutual visa-free pact was born. This agreement allowed citizens from Thailand and China to pop over for 30 days, with an overall tally not exceeding 90 days every six months. But this new proposal could soon change the game.

 

Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong. Picture courtesy of Thai PBS.

 

Concerns? Thienthong assures us there's no link between the review and any shady business dealings by Chinese firms in Thailand. This is all about aligning the tourist wave with local capacity.

 

 

The "We Travel Together" programme is set for a revival. This well-loved scheme will return in May or June, aiming to pep up the travel scene during the quieter months. 

 

Amidst this, government officials will be happy. They can join the travel scheme without sacrificing leave days, embracing the new norm of working online wherever they may roam. All this adds up to a travel-friendly move that aligns tourism with modern work habits.

 

Based on a story by Thai PBS

 

-- 2025-03-28