Thailand's Interior Ministry published a decree in the Royal Gazette that abolishes the 60-day visa-free rule in effect since 2024. From September 15, Russian citizens will be allowed to stay in the country without a visa for no more than 30 days, the Thai outlet Matichon reported.
Russians who want to stay longer will be permitted to extend their stay by another 30 days, but only once. Those who need more than two months will have to apply for a visa depending on the purpose of their trip, Radio Liberty (RFE/RL) reported.
According to Novaya Gazeta Europe, the visa-free period has been halved for citizens of 93 countries. For Russians, entry is now again governed by a bilateral agreement that allowed up to 30 days visa-free with the possibility of an in-country extension.
In addition to shortening the period, Thai immigration authorities have tightened rules for those using so-called visa runs. Travelers can now enter Thailand through land border checkpoints no more than twice a year, to discourage long-term residence without a visa, Radio Liberty reported. The restriction does not apply to airport checkpoints.
Tourists currently in Thailand may remain under the old rules — up to 60 days from the date of entry.
Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow previously said the 60-day visa-free scheme was being used by "some people for illegal purposes," Mediazona reported. Tourism and Sports Minister Surasak Pancharoenworakul, in turn, said authorities would not focus solely on tourist numbers but would emphasize security, Radio Liberty wrote.