Photo: Ekaterina Belinskaya / Pexels
Thailand News Roundup: Visa Changes, Royal Pardon and More
Thailand has been making headlines on several fronts this week, with a significant shift in visa-free entry rules affecting travellers from over 90 countries, a high-profile royal pardon granted to former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, and a Canadian teacher arrested on serious charges. Here is a breakdown of what you need to know.
Visa-Free Stay Cut to 30 Days
Thailand has reduced its visa-free stay from 60 days to 30 days for visitors from more than 90 countries. Thai officials cited overstayers, illegal workers, unauthorised business operators, and misuse of tourist status as the driving reasons behind the change.
For most holidaymakers heading to places like Koh Lanta, the practical impact will be limited. Tourism operators have noted that the majority of visitors already leave within 30 days. However, if you were planning a longer trip of 31 to 60 days, you will now need to arrange a visa in advance rather than relying on visa-free entry.
Critics have suggested that reducing the permitted stay may not be enough on its own to address the problems authorities are concerned about, arguing that stronger enforcement could be a more effective approach.
Thaksin Shinawatra Receives Royal Pardon
Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra received a royal pardon under a decree issued for Queen Suthida's birthday on June 3, 2026. Thaksin had originally faced an eight-year prison sentence for misconduct during his time as prime minister, though that sentence had already been reduced to one year following his return from 17 years of self-imposed exile. He had previously been held at Police Hospital before being released on parole.
The pardon removes the remaining conditions of his release, including monthly probation reporting and an electronic monitoring bracelet. It was issued ahead of what had been his scheduled sentence completion date in September.
Canadian Teacher Arrested on Abuse Charges
A 68-year-old Canadian man identified only as "James," a former mathematics teacher and assistant director at an international school, has been arrested in Prachuap Kiri Khan by Central Investigation Bureau officers. He is alleged to have sexually assaulted a 15-year-old schoolgirl during a private tutoring session at her home in Nakhon Ratchasima in October of the prior year. The suspect had failed to appear in court after being temporarily released. The victim's family received support through The Hug Project.
Pattaya Apartment Intruder
On June 1, a man climbed a fire escape to access a fourth-floor apartment in Pattaya at around 6:55 PM. The resident vacated the apartment in response to the intrusion.
Thai Airways Hires First Female Pilot
In its 66-year history, Thai Airways has hired its first female pilot, marking a notable milestone for the national carrier.
Below Deck Filming in Thailand
Season 13 of the TV show Below Deck will be filmed in Thailand.
Other Stories in Brief
A number of other stories have also been circulating: Thai customs seized One Piece trading cards valued at 2 million baht; a Japanese tourist was injured in a brawl with a transwoman in Pattaya; a Japanese passenger alleged he was attacked by a Bolt driver in Asok; a Thai woman was penalised after an off-road vehicle damaged a WWII landmark; a Thai woman was arrested for a series of thefts at Bangkok airports; and heavy rain has been forecast across southern and eastern Thailand, which includes the Koh Lanta area.
Information sourced from The Thaiger.