Phuket and Bangkok have emerged as hotspots for investors illegally renting out residential units as short-term accommodations, a practice that violates Thai regulations, according to the Thai Hotels Association (THA). The issue has prompted tourism operators to call on the government to reconsider the current 60-day visa-free policy for eligible countries.
Thienprasit Chaiyapatranun, president of the THA, stated that both local and foreign investors have been using condominium units as temporary lodging for tourists. This contravenes the Hotel Act, which stipulates that residential properties can only be leased for a minimum of 30 days unless they hold a hotel license.
Concerns over illegal short-term rentals intensified this week following reports of a foreign national causing damage at a condominium complex in Bangkok. The incident has renewed public scrutiny over the impact of such rentals on local communities, including security issues and disruptions to permanent residents.
Government officials and tourism authorities continue to monitor the situation, with discussions underway regarding potential policy adjustments to address the growing prevalence of illegal rentals.
