Post by : Badri Ariffin

Thailand has confirmed that Indian travellers will continue to enjoy visa-free entry, the Thai government announced on Tuesday. The decision comes after concerns that uncertainty over a proposed policy change had led to a decline in tourist arrivals from India.

Although authorities had earlier proposed ending visa-free entry for Indian visitors, the plan was never implemented. However, the proposal created confusion among travellers, which contributed to fewer visitors from India.

Maximum Visa-Free Stay Reduced to 30 Days

While visa-free entry remains in place, Thailand has reduced the maximum permitted stay for Indian visitors from 60 days to 30 days.

The revised stay period is intended to better reflect the travel habits of Indian tourists while continuing to support Thailand's tourism industry.

India Remains a Key Tourism Market

India continues to be one of Thailand's largest tourism markets, ranking behind only China and Malaysia in terms of visitor numbers.

Thailand's Tourism Minister, Surasak Phancharoenworakul, said the government would continue to monitor the policy. "If problems arise from this measure in the future, the government can review it then," Surasak said, as reported by Bloomberg.

Earlier Proposal Created Uncertainty

In May, Thailand's cabinet approved a proposal to reduce the number of visa-exempt countries from 93 to 54, with eligible visitors allowed to stay for up to 30 days.

However, the proposal never came into force.

Under the latest decision, Indian travellers will continue to receive visa-free entry for up to 30 days. Visitors from Croatia, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Malta, and the Maldives will also be eligible for the same 30-day visa-free stay.

Government Aims to Prevent Misuse of Visa-Free Rules

The changes are part of the Thai government's efforts under Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul to prevent misuse of the country's visa-free system.

Officials are seeking to address cases involving foreign nationals who are suspected of working without authorisation or taking part in activities that violate their visa conditions. The move also responds to concerns raised by local businesses, particularly in popular tourist destinations.

Tourism Remains Vital to Thailand's Economy

Tourism continues to play a major role in Thailand's economy, making travel policies an important part of the country's economic strategy.

Thailand's tourism sector was also in the spotlight after a massive fire at a pub in Bangkok on July 12 killed at least 27 people and injured several others.

#Global News #Thailand News #World Update #Asia Travel