Thailand Reduces Visa-Free Stay from 60 to 30 Days – Reform Is Imminent

The reform of Thailand’s visa-free policy has entered its final phase. A letter from the Thai Ministry of the Interior dated August 27, 2026, confirms that four signed regulatory texts have been forwarded for publication in the Royal Gazette. This clears the way for the concrete implementation of the reform, which was announced in May and revised in July.

The key change: The previous 60-day visa-free entry period will be abolished. It will be replaced by a visa-free arrangement for tourism purposes, reduced to 30 days. In addition, the new regulations provide for a 15-day exemption as well as a revised list of countries whose nationals can continue to obtain a visa upon arrival (Visa on Arrival). This affects travelers from approximately 60 countries and territories, including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia.

For anyone planning a trip to Thailand, this represents a significant restriction compared to previous practices. Those who were previously able to stay in the country for up to 60 days under the visa-free entry program must now plan for only 30 days—an important consideration, for example, for extended vacations, digital nomads, or those making repeated visits. Anyone planning a longer or repeated stay should check early on to determine which visa option is actually suitable.

Since the new framework also changes the list of countries eligible for Visa on Arrival, entry requirements for certain nationalities may change significantly. Travelers who have previously benefited from more lenient regulations should adjust their travel plans accordingly and find out about the new time limits that apply to them well in advance of booking their flight.

For stays exceeding the new 30-day limit, regular visa options remain available. We’ll handle the entire application process for you, whether it’s a standard tourist visa for Thailand, an e-visa for Thailand, or a long-term non-immigrant visa for Thailand. This allows you to plan your stay with legal certainty, regardless of the new, shorter visa-free period.

Further adjustments may still occur until the official publication in the Official Gazette and the actual entry into force of the new regulations. Anyone planning a trip to Thailand in the coming weeks or months should keep an eye on developments and, if in doubt, apply for the appropriate visa early to avoid being caught off guard by last-minute changes. We’re monitoring the current situation for you and will advise you on the best solution for your trip.