Visa rules are changing again in 2026 and the new rules have caused some confusion among travelers.
Who can stay 90 days, 60 days or 30 days?
At the moment, citizens from 93 countries can still enter Thailand without applying for a visa in advance. Most of these visitors are still allowed to stay for up to 60 days. This includes travelers from countries such as the United Kingdom, the United States, Australia, Canada, Germany, Finland, and many other European nations.
The big news is that Thailand has approved plans to end the current 60-day visa exemption program. The Thai Cabinet approved the change on 19 May 2026. Once the new regulation is published in the Royal Gazette, visa-free stays for many nationalities will be reduced from 60 days to only 30 days for most countries. At the time of writing, the new rules have not yet officially taken effect. Travelers entering Thailand today can still use the existing 60-day scheme.
When does this take affect?
Usually it takes 1-3 months to publish new rules. After it is public it may take 15 days to go into effect. Considering this the news change may apply by September 2026.
Thai government may still reverse this new plan.
Which Countries Are Affected?
Thai authorities say the change is being introduced to reduce abuse of the visa exemption system and to prevent people from using tourist entries for long-term stays or illegal activities. Officials believe the shorter stay period will help improve immigration control while still supporting tourism.
Another important requirement for all visitors is the Thailand Digital Arrival Card or TDAC. Every foreign traveler must complete the online arrival form before entering the country. The TDAC replaces the old paper TM6 arrival card and is now required regardless of whether the visitor enters by air or land. Travelers should complete the form before departure to avoid delays at immigration checkpoints.
For those who need more time in Thailand, extensions are still available in many cases. Most visa-exempt visitors can apply for an additional 30-day extension at a local immigration office for a fee of 1,900 baht. Some visitors may also qualify for a second shorter extension depending on their circumstances.
Travelers who are not eligible for visa exemption can still apply for a Tourist Visa through Thailand’s e-Visa system. A single-entry tourist visa normally allows a stay of up to 60 days and can usually be extended for another 30 days inside Thailand. Multiple-entry tourist visas are also available for people planning several trips during the year.
The visa situation in Thailand is changing quickly. Anyone planning a holiday in late 2026 or beyond should check the latest rules before traveling. A trip that qualifies for a 60-day stay today may only receive a 30-day stay once the new regulations officially come into force.