Thailand is set to tighten its visa-on-arrival and visa-free travel rules amid concerns linked to national security, according to a foreign ministry official, although specific details behind the decision were not disclosed.
The policy shift will effectively end the current 60-day visa-free stay arrangement available to travelers from 93 countries, a list that includes Israel. Thai authorities had previously signaled plans to shorten the permitted stay period, with the country’s foreign minister indicating that the duration could be reduced from 60 days to 30 days.
The proposed change marks a notable adjustment to Thailand’s tourism policies, which had been expanded in recent years to encourage international travel and boost visitor numbers.
Thailand remains one of Asia’s most visited tourist destinations and has long been a favored location for Israeli travelers. The country is especially popular among young Israelis, many of whom visit as part of extended backpacking trips across Asia after completing mandatory military service.
While authorities have cited national security as the reason for tightening entry rules, officials have not publicly detailed the specific concerns driving the decision. Further clarification on implementation timelines and how the revised rules may affect travelers is expected in the coming weeks.
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