Thailand Scraps 60-Day Visa-Free Entry: What Indian Travellers Must Know 

If you have been dreaming of a Thailand tour and were counting on the generous 60-day visa-free entry: it is time to update your plans. Thailand has officially scrapped its 60-day visa-free entry policy, replacing it with shorter stays and stricter rules. Here is everything you need to know before you book.

What Has Thailand Changed in Its Visa-Free Entry Policy?  

Thailand introduced the 60-day visa-free entry in July 2024 to boost tourism after the pandemic. The policy allowed nationals of 93 countries to enter without a visa and stay up to 60 days, with a 30-day extension option. It was one of the most tourism-friendly policies in Asia.

However, on May 19, 2026, Thailand’s Cabinet approved a formal proposal to end the 60-day visa-free entry for most countries. The primary reason cited by Thai authorities is the misuse of the policy particularly by foreign nationals using repeated visa-free entries to live in Thailand long-term without the correct visa. Thailand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs also stated the changes are aimed at strengthening border security and expanding the use of its official e-Visa system.

Key Facts at a Glance  

• Cabinet approved the change onMay 19, 2026
• New rules activate15 days after Royal Gazette publication
• Most travellers will now get30 days visa-free(down from 60)
• Visa on Arrival limited to just4 countries— India remains eligible
• Travellers already in Thailand keep their existing permitted stay

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Old Rules vs. New Rules: A Quick Comparison  

Old Policy (Until Gazette Date)

• 60 days visa-free for 93 countries
• 30-day extension allowed
• Extension available twice per year
• Broad visa-on-arrival list

New Policy (After Gazette Date)

• 30 days visa-free for most countries
• 15 days for select island nations
• Visa on arrival: only 4 countries
• More travellers directed to e-Visa

For travellers planning a Thailand 7-day tour or a Thailand 8-day holiday package, the 30-day window is still more than enough. The impact is felt most by digital nomads and long-stayers who were stretching their 60-day allowances.

Which Countries Are Affected by Thailand’s New Visa Rules?  

For a complete and official breakdown, you can refer to the Thailand Ministry of Foreign Affairs official website, which will publish the final gazette notification with exact effective dates.

What Does This Mean for Indian Travellers?  

Here is the good news for Indian travellers: India is one of only four countries that will retain Visa on Arrival (VOA) access to Thailand under the new policy. You do not need to apply for a visa in advance. You can still get your visa stamped at the airport when you land in Thailand, just as before.

So if you have been putting off that Thailand romantic escape with your partner or a Thailand 5-day holiday with family, this change does not directly block you. The VOA process remains the same.

Pro Tip for Indian Travellers  

Always carry proof of onward travel (return flight ticket), hotel bookings, and sufficient funds when arriving in Thailand on a Visa on Arrival. Immigration officers may ask for these at the counter.

If you plan to stay longer than the VOA allows, apply for a Tourist Visa (TR) or Multiple-Entry Tourist Visa (METV) in advance through Thailand’s official e-Visa system.

Why Did Thailand Scrap the 60-Day Visa-Free Entry?  

Thailand’s Immigration Bureau began flagging abuse of the visa-free policy as early as November 2025. Immigration officers were then authorised to deny entry to individuals using visa-exempt entries more than twice without a valid reason a practice called “visa runs,” where travellers briefly cross into a neighbouring country just to reset their visa clock.

By March 2026, Thailand’s Foreign Affairs Minister publicly confirmed the ministry was preparing a formal proposal to reduce the stay period. The Cabinet approval on May 19 finalised that direction. The changes are framed as a move toward a more structured, security-conscious tourism policy while still welcoming genuine holidaymakers.

Planning a Thailand 6-day tour or exploring holiday packages from India that cover Thailand? Short-stay tourists are not the target of these restrictions – the new rules are specifically designed to stop long-term informal residents, not vacationers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)  

Q. Is Thailand removing visa-free travel completely?

No. Thailand is not ending visa-free travel. Most nationalities will still enter without a visa — the stay period is simply being reduced from 60 days to 30 days (or 15 days for a few island nations).

Q. When exactly will the new Thailand visa rules start?

The new rules will take effect 15 days after the official publication in Thailand’s Royal Gazette. As of May 22, 2026, no gazette date has been announced. Monitor the official MFA Thailand website for updates.

Q. Will Indians still get a Visa on Arrival in Thailand?

Yes. India remains on the Visa on Arrival list under the new policy. Indian travellers can continue to get their visa stamped upon arrival at major Thai airports.

Q. What if I want to stay in Thailand for more than 30 days?

Apply for a Tourist Visa (TR) or Multiple-Entry Tourist Visa (METV) through Thailand’s e-Visa system before you travel. You can also explore our international visa services for guided assistance.

Plan Your Thailand Holiday Without the Stress  

Despite the visa changes, Thailand remains one of the most stunning and rewarding destinations in the world and for most holidaymakers, the new 30-day window is more than enough to explore it fully. Whether you want temples and tuk-tuks in Bangkok, island-hopping in Phuket, or a peaceful retreat in Chiang Mai, there is no shortage of incredible experiences waiting.

At travelsagaholidays.in we take the confusion out of travel planning. From our expertly curated tour packages to complete visa services, we handle every detail so you can focus on making memories. Book your dream Thailand holiday today.

Read more informative blogs:

Thailand 7-Day Itinerary: Your Complete Guide to the Ultimate Tropical Escape

Monsoon Magic: Why May–June Might Be the Best Time to Visit Thailand