Indian citizens will continue to enjoy visa-free travel to Thailand, the Thai government announced on Tuesday, ending uncertainty that had emerged after discussions on withdrawing the facility.

While authorities had earlier considered ending visa-free access for several countries, the proposal was never implemented. However, reports of the possible change reportedly affected travel plans and contributed to a drop in tourist arrivals from India.

Under the revised policy, Indian visitors can still enter Thailand without obtaining a visa in advance, but the maximum permitted stay has been shortened from 60 days to 30 days.

Thailand's Tourism Minister Surasak Phancharoenworakul said the revised duration better reflects the travel habits of Indian tourists while continuing to support the country's tourism sector. He added that the government could reassess the policy if any issues arise in the future.

Earlier this year, Thailand's cabinet approved a proposal to reduce the number of countries eligible for visa-free entry from 93 to 54, with a uniform stay limit of 30 days. Although the plan had not been enforced at the time, the latest announcement confirms that India remains on the visa-exempt list.

Apart from India, travellers from Croatia, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Malta and the Maldives will also continue to receive visa-free entry with a maximum stay of 30 days.

The policy revision is part of a broader effort by the Thai government to tighten oversight of its visa-free programme. Authorities have expressed concerns about some foreign nationals allegedly misusing the exemption by working illegally or engaging in activities not permitted under tourist entry rules. Local businesses in popular tourist destinations have also raised similar concerns.

Tourism continues to play a crucial role in Thailand's economy, making visitor-friendly policies an important part of the country's economic strategy. India remains one of Thailand's largest inbound tourism markets, alongside China and Malaysia.

The announcement comes as Thailand continues to remain in the spotlight following a deadly fire at a Bangkok pub on July 12 that claimed at least 27 lives and left several others injured.