Thailand’s government has officially reduced visa-free tourist allowances from 60 days to 30 days for nationals of 60 countries and territories, with the change taking effect on 15 September 2026. The new rules were published in the Royal Gazette on 31 August and confirmed by multiple outlets on 1 September.
Who Is Affected
Citizens of the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, all European Union member states, India, and GCC nations are among those subject to the shorter allowance. In total, 60 nationalities that previously received an automatic 60-day stamp at the border will now receive a maximum of 30 days.
Nationals of Malaysia, Brunei, Indonesia, and Singapore are not affected by this particular change.
The new 30-day cap also applies to land border crossings, where a separate restriction already limits most visitors to two land entries per calendar year.
Why the Change
Thai immigration authorities stated the move is part of an effort to curb crime involving foreign nationals who use long visa-free stays to reside in Thailand without legal work or residency permits. The decision reverses the 60-day visa-free scheme introduced in 2024 that had been popular with longer-term visitors and digital nomads.
What Travellers Should Do
Anyone planning a stay beyond 30 days will need to apply for a Tourist Visa (TR) in advance from a Thai consulate or embassy. A TR allows an initial stay of 60 days, extendable by 30 days at an immigration office inside Thailand. The Thailand Elite visa and various long-term resident schemes remain unchanged.
Those already in Thailand before 15 September will retain the period of stay granted at entry — the cut does not affect anyone already admitted under the current 60-day rule.
If you are planning a trip, check our Thailand visa guide for a full breakdown of TR visa options and extension procedures. For timing your trip around this and other seasonal factors, our best time to visit Thailand guide covers the complete picture. Travellers on extended budgets should also review our Thailand budget guide to account for any additional visa costs.
The updated policy takes effect in two weeks. Anyone with bookings beyond 30 days should act now.