Thailand scraps plan to end visa-free entry for Indians

Thailand scrapped a plan to end visa-free entry for Indians, instead allowing 30-day visa-exempt entries.

The reversal follows a drop in Indian arrivals after an earlier proposal to eliminate visa-free access caused confusion.

Indian tourists previously enjoyed 60-day visa-free entry; the new policy provides 30-day stays.

Tourism Minister Surasak Phancharoenworakul said the change aligns with Indian travel behavior and aims to boost tourism.

The visa-free policy for Indians, the third-biggest visitor group behind China and Malaysia, includes all 27 EU member states to aid Schengen negotiations.