Thailand reinstates its 30
Thailand is reverting its visa-free tourist stay policy from 60 days back to 30 days starting September 15, 2026. The move aims to tighten national security and prevent visa misuse, though it includes an option for a one-time 30-day extension.
Why it matters
The policy shift impacts international travel logistics for millions of tourists and reflects a broader trend of countries tightening border control measures.
Preventing visa misuse and tighten national security: these are the two reasons given by Thailand last April to look at cutting the length of stay and the number of countries benefiting from the 60-day free-visa on arrival. The official date has now been announced: September 15, 2026…
From that date, Thailand will halve its visa-free stay for travelers from 60 countries and territories,.
The change formally ends the 60-day visa exemption introduced in 2024 and brings the country’s standard visa-free tourist stay back to 30 days.
The new rules were published in Thailand’s Royal Gazette on August 31, making September 15 the official implementation date.
The existing 60-day policy remains in place through September 14. Travelers who enter Thailand before the change takes effect will consequently keep the period of stay granted when they arrive. Their permitted stay will not automatically be reduced after September 15.
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