Thailand slashes visa-free stay for Maldivians to 15 days

Thailand has introduced major revisions to its visa policy, significantly reducing the period Maldivian citizens are permitted to remain in the country without a visa.

Under the new regulations approved by the Thai government this month, citizens of most countries will be eligible for a 30-day visa-free stay. However, the Maldives has been placed in the shortest-duration category under Thailand’s “One Country, One Privilege” framework, limiting Maldivian nationals to a 15-day visa-free stay upon arrival.

The policy change is expected to create significant challenges for Maldivians travelling to Thailand for tourism and medical treatment. The revised regulations form part of a broader initiative by Thailand’s Foreign Ministry aimed at strengthening the country’s immigration system.

Previously, since July 2024, Thailand had granted citizens of 93 countries, including the Maldives, a 60-day visa-free stay. The scheme was introduced under former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s administration to strenghten tourism and had proven especially beneficial for long-term travelers and remote workers.

However, Thailand’s Foreign Ministry stated that the policy revision was prompted by a rise in cases involving visa overstays and illegal business activities. Authorities noted that online scam networks had exploited the 60-day visa exemption program. Additional reasons cited for the changes included reducing national security risks and shifting focus toward attracting what authorities described as “quality tourists.”

With the implementation of the new regulations, the 60-day visa-free scheme has been completely abolished. Immigration procedures at entry points are also expected to become more stringent, with officers instructed to closely examine hotel reservations, return tickets, and proof of sufficient financial means for the duration of a visitor’s stay.

The impact of the revised policy is expected to be particularly significant for Maldivians, many of whom travel frequently to Thailand for medical treatment, trade, and short holidays. A 15-day stay is often insufficient for individuals undergoing major medical procedures or requiring extended post-operative care, making travel arrangements more complex.

Key implications for Maldivian travelers include:

• The requirement to obtain a visa in advance for stays exceeding 15 days.
• Increased travel expenses due to visa application fees.
• A visa application fee of 1,000 Thai Baht, equivalent to approximately USD 30.
• Reduced flexibility for emergency travel and longer preparation periods before departure.

For many Maldivians who travel to Thailand for extended business procurement trips or family holidays, the new regulations are expected to pose a significant inconvenience.

Authorities have confirmed that travelers currently in Thailand will be permitted to remain until the expiry of their originally authorized stay period. However, once the new system comes into full effect, Maldivians planning to remain in Thailand for longer than 15 days will be required to obtain an e-visa through Thailand’s official platform. The application process will require detailed information regarding the purpose of travel, accommodation arrangements, and confirmed return travel plans.

The Thai government is expected to implement the changes following their publication in the Royal Gazette, with the regulations typically taking effect within 15 days of publication. Travelers have been advised to carefully monitor the duration of their stay and arrange the necessary visas well in advance of travel.