Thailand has changed its visa-free entry rules.
From September 1, 2026, most travelers from the previous 93-country list can now stay up to 30 days instead of 60 days for tourism.
Land-border entries are also limited for most nationalities.
Check your passport rules before travelling.
Thailand has officially published new visa-exemption rules that will end the special 60-day visa exemption for 93 countries and territories.
The new rules were published in the Royal Gazette on August 31, 2026, and will take effect on September 15, 2026.
Until September 14, the current 60-day visa exemption remains in effect for eligible travelers.
Under the new system:
- 60 countries and territories — visa-free entry for tourism for up to 30 days
- Mauritius and Seychelles — visa-free entry for tourism for up to 15 days
- Azerbaijan, Belarus and Serbia — eligible for Visa on Arrival
Who can stay 30 days without a visa?
The new 30-day visa exemption includes countries such as:
Australia, Austria, Bahrain, Belgium, Bhutan, Brunei, Canada, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Malaysia, the Maldives, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Singapore, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, the United Kingdom and the United States.
The final list contains 60 countries and territories.
The new exemption is specifically for tourism. The previous 60-day scheme also covered certain short-term business activities and urgent work.
What about entering Thailand by land?
For most nationalities, visa-exempt entry through a land border is limited to two times per calendar year.
This restriction does not apply to nationals of Malaysia, Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia and Singapore, along with any other nationalities later designated by the Interior Minister.
What if you are already in Thailand?
If you entered Thailand before the new rules take effect, your existing permitted stay remains valid. The new rules do not shorten the stay already granted to you.
What if your country is not on the new list?
Thailand’s bilateral visa-exemption agreements remain in place. Depending on your nationality, you may also be able to apply for an appropriate visa through Thailand’s e-Visa system.
In short
Thailand is ending the special 60-day visa exemption for 93 countries.
From September 15, 2026, most travelers who remain eligible will receive 30 days visa-free for tourism instead.
If you’re planning to visit Thailand after September 15, check the rules for your passport before travelling.
Ref: https://thailand.prd.go.th/en/content/category/detail/id/2078/iid/522327
