Tourism operators in Phuket and Pattaya backed the government's decision to restore 30-day visa-free stays, saying the move would help curb illegal businesses and low-spending long-stay visitors.
According to the Department of Consular Affairs under the Foreign Affairs Ministry, the policy overhaul is part of a wider restructuring of Thailand's visa system aimed at reducing confusion, tightening immigration controls and aligning permitted stay periods with actual travel behaviour.
Bhummikitti Ruktaengam, president of the Sustainable Tourism Development Foundation, said the decision followed lengthy consultations between the government and tourism operators.
He said most tourism businesses agreed that 30 days was already sufficient for ordinary tourists, while investors and business travellers could apply through other visa channels.
"The overall impact on Thai tourism should be limited, although some markets may slow," he said.
He said arrivals from the Middle East to Phuket had already declined sharply, while Australian tourists remained stable because they tended to book trips well in advance. Indian arrivals had also softened slightly but continued at relatively high levels.
He added that Kazakhstan, which previously enjoyed visa-free access, would return to normal visa requirements under the revised measures.
Phuket MP Chalermpong Saengdee of the People's Party supported the change, saying Thailand should shift towards "quality tourism" rather than focusing solely on visitor numbers.
"Thirty days is already enough for tourism, and personally, I think even 18 days would be sufficient," he said.
He warned that extended visa-free stays had created loopholes allowing some foreigners to establish nominee businesses, compete with local operators and engage in criminal activities.
He urged the government to intensify legal action against illegal foreign-run businesses and improve immigration screening capacity, particularly in major tourist provinces such as Phuket.
Chutima Jeeramongkol, president of the Pattaya Business and Tourism Association, also backed the return to 30-day stays, describing it as a return to normal conditions after the temporary extension.
She said the shorter period could help tackle problems linked to scammers and foreigners illegally operating businesses while encouraging higher-spending short-term visitors.
"Tourists staying three to seven days generally spend more on accommodation, food and activities, while long-stay travellers are often more budget-conscious," she said. Pattaya is facing a low-season slowdown.
