- Thailand reduces visa-free stay to 30 days from September 15, 2026
- 60-day rule applies through September 14 for existing entries
- Land border entries capped at two per calendar year
- Destination Thailand Visa requires 500,000 baht (€13,000) bank balance
- Visitor numbers down 3pc in 2026 compared to previous year
Thailand has reduced visa-free tourist stays from 60 days to 30 days for nationals of 60 countries and territories starting September 15, 2026.
The change was published in the Royal Gazette and aimed at addressing security concerns and potential misuse while supporting tourism. Eligible travellers, including those from Ireland, EU member states, England, the United States, Australia, Canada, India and GCC nations, will have their visa-free entry capped at 30 days from the effective date.
The 60-day rule remains fully valid through September 14, 2026, with those already admitted to Thailand before September 15 retaining the period of stay granted by immigration authorities upon entry.
The Thai government has tightened immigration controls in response to rising concerns over the system’s misuse, including foreign nationals overstaying, working illegally or participating in transnational crime. Visa-exempt arrivals crossing via land borders will generally be capped at two entries per calendar year, while Mauritius and Seychelles passport holders will be granted a 15-day exemption and select countries like Azerbaijan, Belarus and Serbia move to a Visa on Arrival arrangement. Visitors on visa-free stays will be able to extend their stays on one occasion at the discretion of an immigration officer.
Tourists planning to spend more than 30 days in Thailand after mid-September must apply for a tourist visa or explore alternative long-term options like the Destination Thailand Visa, which permits stays of up to 180 days per entry and can be extended by an additional 180 days. Applicants for the Destination Thailand Visa must show evidence of at least 500,000 baht (€13,000) in a bank account and proof of employment outside Thailand for remote workers. Thailand has attracted nearly 21m foreign visitors since the beginning of 2026, down 3pc on the same period last year.
Tourism Authority of Thailand governor shared “Thailand remains committed to welcoming international visitors while ensuring that immigration controls are maintained at appropriate levels to address security concerns and prevent misuse of the visa-free system.”
Thailand Ministry of Foreign Affairs shared “The adjustment to 30 days for visa-free entry has been implemented following careful consideration of security requirements and tourism objectives, with alternative visa options available for travellers seeking longer stays.”
