Thailand Visa-Free Stay Reduced from 60 to 30 Days — Effective 15 September 2026
Thailand's Royal Gazette confirmed on 31 August 2026 that the visa-free stay for travelers from 60 eligible countries and territories will be reduced from 60 to 30 days, effective 15 September 2026. A one-time 30-day extension remains available at local immigration offices, and existing bilateral visa-exemption agreements are unaffected.
Before
Before 15 September 2026, eligible travelers could stay in Thailand visa-free for up to 60 days.
After (Current)
As of 7 September 2026, the previous 60-day visa-exemption allowance remains in force. The Thai government has finalized the reduction to 30 days by publishing the regulation in the Royal Gazette on 31 August 2026, with the new 30-day limit taking effect on 15 September 2026 for eligible travelers from 60 countries and territories.
Effective Date
Sep 15, 2026
In This Article
Current Status
Key Dates
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At a Glance
Thailand's Royal Gazette confirmed on 31 August 2026 that the visa-free stay for travelers from 60 eligible countries and territories will be reduced from 60 to 30 days, effective 15 September 2026. A one-time 30-day extension remains available at local immigration offices, and existing bilateral visa-exemption agreements are unaffected.
This change affects travelers from the 60 countries and territories covered by Thailand's standard visa-exemption scheme. Travelers from countries with a separate bilateral visa-exemption agreement with Thailand are not affected.
Yes, review the details and assess whether changes apply to your situation. Update documentation if required.
High — Action needed soon. Review deadlines carefully.
Current Situation
As of 7 September 2026, the previous 60-day visa-exemption allowance remains in force. The Thai government has finalized the reduction to 30 days by publishing the regulation in the Royal Gazette on 31 August 2026, with the new 30-day limit taking effect on 15 September 2026 for eligible travelers from 60 countries and territories.
What Stayed the Same
A one-time 30-day extension remains available at local immigration offices, allowing a maximum stay of 60 days without leaving Thailand.
Bilateral visa-exemption agreements between Thailand and specific countries are unaffected.
The Tourist Visa (TR) and Visa-on-Arrival schemes are unaffected by this change.
Policy Timeline
Current: ConfirmedReview of 60-Day Visa-Free Entry Scheme
Thailand's Ministry of Foreign Affairs is reviewing the 60-day visa-free entry policy for 93 countries, considering a reduction to 30 days to enhance tourism quality and prevent misuse.
Plan future stays based on the new limit. Book or adjust travel before the effective date.
Thai Cabinet Reduces Visa-Exempt Stay Period to 30 Days
The Thai government has officially reduced the standard visa-exempt stay for tourists from 93 countries from 60 days to 30 days to address security and misuse concerns.
This is confirmed policy. Check your current visa category against the new rules now.
What This Means
Once the new rule takes effect on 15 September 2026, eligible travelers will receive 30 days of visa-free entry instead of the previous 60 days. Until that date, the existing 60-day allowance remains in force. Travelers who need a longer stay can still apply for a one-time 30-day extension at a local immigration office after arrival, and existing bilateral visa-exemption agreements between Thailand and specific countries are not affected by this change.
Who Is Affected
This change affects travelers from the 60 countries and territories covered by Thailand's standard visa-exemption scheme. Travelers from countries with a separate bilateral visa-exemption agreement with Thailand are not affected.
Action recommended
High urgencyThis update has a deadline in 3 days. Review the details and take any required steps promptly.
What You Should Do
Confirm your nationality's visa-exemption status on the official Government Public Relations Department (PRD) or Thai Immigration Bureau website. 2. If travelling on or after 15 September 2026, plan your itinerary around the new 30-day limit. 3. If you need a longer stay, apply for the one-time 30-day extension at a local immigration office, or consider a longer-term visa (e.g. DTV, retirement, Non-B, or LTR) if you plan to stay in Thailand beyond the extended 60 days.
Key Takeaway
Thailand's reduction of the visa-free stay from 60 to 30 days is now confirmed and enacted via Royal Gazette publication (31 August 2026), taking effect on 15 September 2026. Before that date, the current 60-day allowance still applies.
Sources & References
VisaHQ
VisaHQ / Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Bangkok Post
Khaosod English
The Guardian
Human Resources Online
Siam Legal / Human Resources Online
Pattaya Service Market
The Nation Thailand
Government Public Relations Department (PRD)
Thailand Business News
VisasNews
Bangkok Post
Government Public Relations Department (PRD)
Thai Immigration Bureau
ThaiVisaFlow
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