THE FOREIGN Affairs Ministry is gearing up to propose to the government that visa-free entry be reduced from 60 to 30 days to close a loophole that allows foreign scammers and other gangs to slip into the country, TV Channel 7 said today (March 21).
Foreign Affairs Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow said although the government of former prime minister Settha Thavisin introduced a policy exempting foreign tourists from visa requirements for 60 days to boost tourism, the ministry’s visa review committee has found this to be too long.
It was determined that 30 days is sufficient for tourism and the longer stretch opens a loophole for those not intending to holiday here but reside without having to get the correct visa.
“We are about to propose that the government reduce the number of days granted to visa-exempt nationals from 60 to 30 days. Foreign tourists will still be eligible to extend their stay by another 30 days,” he said.
This step is not intended to discriminate against any country or nationality but would tackle the issue of online scammers and other individuals involved in these activities from exploiting the long-term visa exemption to enter Thailand and travel to neighbouring countries, he added.
Sihasak affirmed that Thailand continues to prioritise welcoming and caring for foreign tourists, while simultaneously reserving the right to block loopholes that allow individuals to enter the country and engage in activities that threaten national security or are not for tourism purposes.
CAPTIONS:
Top: Tourists at Damnoen Saduak floating market in Ratchaburi. Photo by Marek Okon on Unsplash
Insert: Foreign Affairs Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow. Photo – Reuters and published by CNA
Front Page: Tourists having fun in Chiang Mai. Photo – Thai Rath
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