Thailand Cabinet Plans Reducing Visa-Free Stay for Maldivians to 15 Days Under New Entry Rules

The Cabinet of Thailand has planned to reduce visa-free entry for Maldivian nationals to 15 days, following a cabinet decision to end the 60-day visa-free programme for all foreign visitors.

According to the Bangkok Post, the change places the Maldives among three countries — alongside Seychelles and Mauritius — whose nationals will now be eligible for a 15-day visa exemption, according to an unofficial list from Thailand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

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The cabinet on Tuesday agreed to scrap the extended 60-day visa-free scheme introduced in July 2024, with authorities yet to confirm the exact enforcement date.

Under the revised policy, Thailand will revert to its previous immigration framework, with 54 countries retaining 30-day visa exemptions and a smaller group eligible for 15-day stays or visa-on-arrival arrangements.

Thai authorities have previously indicated that the longer 60-day stay, introduced to support post-pandemic tourism recovery, had raised concerns over a rise in foreign nationals settling, operating businesses, or engaging in illegal activity.

The move marks a shift towards tighter entry controls and a standardised visa exemption system across participating countries.

Thailand has long been a key travel destination for Maldivian patients seeking specialised healthcare services, as well as for students pursuing higher education. It also remains a popular leisure destination, with direct and connecting travel options supporting steady visitor flows for holidays, shopping, and family travel.