Thailand is set to shorten visa-free stays for travelers from 93 countries and territories, including Kazakhstan, as authorities tighten entry rules amid concerns over misuse of the tourism scheme.

Thailand’s Cabinet approved in principle the cancellation of the current 60-day visa-free regime during a meeting on May 19, The Caspian Post reports via Kazinform.

The visa-free policy, introduced in July 2024 to boost tourism recovery after the pandemic, allowed citizens from dozens of countries - including the United States, the United Kingdom, China, Japan, Russia, EU member states, and Kazakhstan - to stay in Thailand for up to 60 days without a visa.

Under the planned changes, most travelers are expected to return to the previous 30-day visa-free stay period, although Thai authorities said the final rules may vary depending on nationality and bilateral agreements.

Thailand’s Minister of Tourism and Sports Surasak Phancharoenworakul said the government intends to review entry conditions country by country, taking into account tourism policy, economic factors, and security considerations.

The reform has not yet officially entered into force. The Foreign Ministry still lists the 60-day visa-free entry period on its official platforms, while detailed regulations are expected to be published soon through the Ministry of Interior.

According to Thai authorities, the updated rules are expected to take effect 15 days after publication in the Royal Gazette. Travelers entering Thailand before the changes become active will still be allowed to remain for the duration granted at entry.

The move follows earlier reports that Thailand planned to reduce visa-free stays after concerns emerged over illegal activities and misuse of tourist entry privileges.