BANGKOK – Government officials convened on October 22 to evaluate the multifaceted impacts of Thailand’s 60-day visa-free policy for international visitors. The high-level meeting, chaired by Tourism and Sports Minister Mr. Atthakorn Sirilatthayakorn, brought together representatives from multiple agencies including the Department of Consular Affairs, Ministry of Interior, National Security Council, Immigration Bureau, and Tourism Authority of Thailand.

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The comprehensive review examined both the economic benefits and potential challenges arising from the policy that allows foreign nationals to enter Thailand for tourism, urgent business, or short-term work without visa requirements. Discussions centered on the measure’s positive effects on tourism revenue and commercial exchanges alongside necessary considerations regarding national security and immigration management. The Department of Consular Affairs presented detailed data and analysis reflecting the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ assessment of the policy’s implementation.

Thailand 🇹🇭 : Authorities reassessing 60-day visa exemption 👇https://t.co/3P5n2axgVh

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Deputy Director-General of the Department of Consular Affairs Mr. Bancha Yuenyongchongcharoen confirmed that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is preparing to propose the reestablishment of the Visa Policy Committee to the Prime Minister. This revitalized committee would coordinate national visa policy, ensuring new measures align with both economic objectives and security protocols. The initiative reflects the government’s ongoing effort to balance hospitality toward international visitors with effective border control mechanisms.

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The meeting represented a significant advancement in inter-agency coordination on immigration policy. Participants emphasized the necessity of continued collaboration between tourism promotion and national security entities to maximize the policy’s advantages while mitigating potential risks. Findings and recommendations from the session will be formally submitted to the Visa Policy Committee once operational, enabling a thorough reassessment of the 60-day visa-free arrangement within the context of the government’s broader economic and tourism strategies.

-Thailand News (TN)