Thailand Ends 60-Day Scheme, Reverting Visa-Free Entry to 30 Days Starting September 15
Thailand has officially published regulations in the Royal Gazette rolling back its temporary 60-day visa exemption scheme. Effective September 15, 2026, tourists from 60 countries and territories—including the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Japan, India, and EU member states—will be granted a 30-day visa-free stay upon arrival, replacing the temporary 60-day allowance introduced in July 2024.
According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Thailand, the policy recalibration follows an internal security review aimed at curbing visa-free system misuse, foreign illegal employment, and unauthorized business operations while maintaining support for short-term holidaymakers.
Key Rules and Entry Limitations
The updated framework establishes specific operational constraints for travelers visiting the Kingdom:
- 30-Day Exemption: Passport holders from 60 eligible nations receive up to 30 days of visa-free tourism upon entry.
- Land Border Entry Cap: Visa-exempt tourists entering via overland checkpoints (such as crossings with Malaysia, Laos, or Cambodia) are limited to two entries per calendar year to prevent "visa runs". Air and sea arrivals remain uncapped.
- In-Country Extensions: Travelers under the 30-day exemption can request a one-time 30-day extension at local immigration offices for a 1,900 THB fee, subject to officer discretion.
- Grandfather Clause: Foreign visitors entering Thailand prior to September 15 will retain the full 60-day stay stamped into their passport upon arrival.
Long-term travelers, digital nomads, and remote workers planning extended stays beyond 30 days are advised to secure dedicated visa options—such as the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV)—in advance.
For official immigration updates and border compliance guidelines, tourists can visit the Royal Thai Immigration Bureau or consult the Tourism Authority of Thailand.
