Thailand has changed its entry rules, and the change directly concerns travellers: since 15 September 2026, visa exemption is no longer 60 days but 30 days for most nationalities concerned. New categories have been created and limits introduced for land border crossings.
What changed
Until 14 September 2026, a number of nationalities benefited from a 60-day tourist exemption. It ended at that date, and a new framework took effect on 15 September: a 30-day exemption for nationals of about sixty countries and territories, a 15-day exemption for two countries, plus visa on arrival for three nationalities, while existing bilateral agreements continue.
Why the change
The measure is part of a tightening of entry conditions after a period of openness meant to relaunch tourism. Authorities intended to regain control over long stays disguised as tourism and over repeated border runs.
The 30 days
Holders of passports from sixty countries and territories are exempt for a tourist stay of up to 30 days. This is the category that concerns most European travellers. The full list is published by the Thai tourism authority: check that your nationality appears before booking.
The 15 days
Two countries — Seychelles and Mauritius — fall under a 15-day exemption, a more restrictive regime.
Land borders
The most important novelty for travellers touring Southeast Asia: those entering by land under the 30-day exemption may in principle do so only twice per calendar year. The limit does not apply to nationals of Malaysia, Brunei, Indonesia and Singapore, nor to other nationalities designated by the ministry.
Visa on arrival
Visa on arrival concerns three nationalities: Azerbaijan, Belarus and Serbia. It is obtained on arrival at designated entry points.
Bilateral agreements
Separate agreements continue to apply and provide, depending on the case, exemptions of 90, 30 or 14 days. Two travellers may therefore have different rights depending on their passport.
What it changes for a tourist stay
For a classic two- or three-week stay, nothing changes in practice: thirty days are enough. For six weeks to two months, the question arises: apply for a tourist visa before departure, plan an extension on site, or organise a shorter stay and return.
Extension on site
It is generally possible to request an extension at the immigration office, according to the conditions in force and the entry category. Rules, durations and fees may change: check with Thai immigration or the embassy. Do not assume it is automatic.
The tourist visa
The classic tourist visa, requested before departure from a consulate, remains the solution for long stays. It requires a file, supporting documents and time, but it secures a stay of several weeks.
Repeated stays
Travellers chaining stays — retirees, digital nomads, families split between two countries — are most affected. The end of the 60-day exemption and the land border limit reduce margins.
Documents to prepare
A passport valid at least six months after entry, a return or onward ticket, proof of accommodation and sometimes proof of sufficient funds. These requirements are not always checked, but they may be.
Counting days
The day of entry counts as the first day. The stamp indicates the deadline: photograph it on arrival, it is the reference in case of control.
Already in the country
Those who entered before 15 September 2026 keep the rights attached to their entry. The change concerns new entries. Check the date on your stamp, not the general rule.
Airlines
Airlines check documents at departure and may refuse boarding if the return ticket exceeds the authorised duration. Plan an onward ticket consistent with your stay: it is the first thing asked for.
Long-stay regimes
For stays of several months, dedicated categories exist: non-immigrant visas for family, professional or study reasons, and long-stay programmes for certain profiles.
Families and couples
In a couple of different nationalities, authorised duration may vary from one person to the other. Organise the stay on the basis of the shortest regime, or apply for the appropriate visas.
Overstaying
Staying beyond the authorised duration exposes you to penalties: fines, detention, and a ban from returning in some cases. The count is in days.
What to check before booking
Three things: nationality and applicable regime, total length of stay, and mode of entry (air or land). Check official sources: the Thai embassy, the tourism authority, and airlines.
Mistakes to avoid
Relying on an old paper guide or article: rules changed in September 2026. Assuming the 60-day duration still exists. Counting on an automatic extension. And ignoring the land border limit.
FAQ
Do I need a visa for two weeks?
No, if your nationality is among those benefiting from the 30-day exemption.
Does the 60-day duration still exist?
No, the old 60-day exemption ended on 14 September 2026.
Can I extend on site?
An extension may be requested at immigration, but it is not guaranteed.
How many land entries?
In principle two per calendar year for 30-day exemption holders.
Where to check nationality?
On the list published by the Thai tourism authority and with the embassy.
Sources and references
- Thai tourism office — new entry rules from 15 September 2026
- TAT News — new list of exempted countries
To go further
Mr Schaka’s guidebook, Bangkok – The Practical Guide, covers the essentials: transport, neighbourhoods, addresses, food, etiquette and safety, updated for 2026–2027.
