Cambodia and Thailand have significantly slashed visa stays for each other’s citizens to seven days, effective immediately. The tit-for-tat action comes amid conflict over a disputed border area. As a result, the change has affected both travelers and local businesses alike.
Previously, Cambodian nationals could stay up to 60 days via land-entry visas. However, Thailand has now shortened the stay to only seven days for land arrivals, while air arrivals have not suffered an impact. In retaliation, Cambodia has also drastically reduced stays for Thai nationals from 60 days to seven days.
Thailand’s Move Sparks Disruption
Thailand’s decision shocked many regular travelers and traders along the bustling border crossings, especially at Aranyaprathet and Sa Kaeo.
Correspondingly, immigration officials cited border security concerns and higher smuggling cases as reasons for the sudden shift. Consequently, visa runners and frequent shoppers face massive queues and confusion at checkpoints.
Notably, Thailand’s martial law declaration in several border provinces has worsened the situation. Under martial law, military authorities oversee immigration enforcement, which adds another layer of complexity. Hence, travelers to and from Cambodia and Thailand have reported delays and cancellations.
Cambodia Retaliates Swiftly
In a quick retaliatory move, the immigration department of Cambodia matched Thailand’s policy, reducing visa stays for Thai passport holders at land crossings to seven days.
Officials stated the measure was temporary, pending further diplomatic negotiations. Although both governments cite security concerns, the move clearly reflects deepening political tensions.
The Cambodian government, however, has not yet implemented these changes at airports, where normal visa stays still apply. Even so, border trade and tourism have already taken a hit.
Cambodia-Thailand Border Economy Suffers
This sudden policy shift of Thailand and Cambodia has hit border economies hard. For instance, markets in Poipet and Aranyaprathet that rely on cross-border shoppers now face reduced foot traffic. As a result, local vendors and small hotels report plunging revenues.
Moreover, many businesses depend on day-trippers from both countries, who now must plan shorter trips or avoid crossing altogether. Thus, traders are calling for urgent talks to resolve the situation.
Political Motives at Play
Analysts believe the measures of Thailand and Cambodia are symbolic extensions of border tensions dating back to May. At that time, both countries deployed additional troops near a disputed area, heightening security concerns. Furthermore, Thailand recently hinted at cutting power and internet to border areas where gambling and scam operations thrive, adding fuel to the fire.
Therefore, the visa reductions seem both retaliatory and strategic, signaling each country’s readiness to maintain their respective political stances.
Outlook for Thailand, Cambodia
Both governments insist the restrictions are temporary, pending improvements in border stability. Moreover, Cambodian and Thai foreign ministries have hinted at possible talks to ease tensions. However, neither side has committed to a clear timeline for lifting the measures.
Until then, travelers and traders remain caught in the middle, grappling with new rules and border uncertainties.
Overall, Cambodia and Thailand’s tit-for-tat visa reductions highlight a simmering conflict that’s affecting thousands on both sides. Whether diplomacy can cool the situation remains to be seen.
Photo by MARIOLA GROBELSKA on Unsplash
