Thailand announces reduced visa-free stay
Thailand is cutting the duration of visa-free stays for tourists from more than 60 countries and territories, including India, from 60 days to 30 days, effective September 15, 2026. The country's foreign ministry confirmed the change on Tuesday, as reported by Hindustan Times. The new limit will apply to travelers from more than 60 countries, including India, China, the United States, and 27 European Union countries.
The decision was formalized in an August 31 Royal Gazette announcement, according to The Times of India. The 60-day rule applies until September 14, and travelers who enter before the change takes effect will retain their original stay period.
What it means for Indian tourists
Indian passport holders will continue to be eligible for visa-free entry to Thailand. From September 15, they will be allowed to stay for up to 30 days, instead of the 60-day period available since 2024. This change is not expected to significantly affect most Indian visitors. According to Thailand's tourism authority, Indian travelers stay an average of about a week per trip, as noted by The Times of India.
Under the revised arrangements, travelers from 59 countries and territories will receive a 30-day visa-free stay, while nationals of Mauritius and Seychelles will receive a 15-day stay. Additionally, Azerbaijan, Belarus, and Serbia will shift to Thailand's Visa on Arrival system, according to The Times of India.
Land-border entries for visa-exempt travelers will be capped at two per calendar year, while air and sea arrivals can enter multiple times.
Reasons for the change
Thai authorities say the reduction is aimed at stopping people from exploiting the visa-free system. Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow said the reduction in visa-free stays was part of a crackdown on people abusing the visa system to commit crimes or engage in activities outside the permitted rules, as reported by Hindustan Times.
A number of foreigners have recently been arrested in Thailand on allegations involving drug offences, sex trafficking, and running businesses such as hotels and schools without the required permits, according to Hindustan Times. The earlier, more generous visa-free stance was part of an economic boost during the pandemic recovery, but Thai officials now say they need to tighten control over who comes, for how long, and why, as The Times of India reported.
Extension options and enforcement
Tourists will still be able to seek a stay extension after entering Thailand, but the extension will be subject to the discretion of an immigration officer, according to Hindustan Times. The Times of India also noted that travelers can apply for extensions, though it did not specify the conditions.
Tourist numbers and context
Thailand has welcomed 20.9 million foreign tourists since the beginning of 2026, according to official figures reported by Hindustan Times. This number is about 3% lower than during the same period in 2025, the outlet noted.
The change reflects Thailand's broader effort to balance its tourism-dependent economy with security and immigration controls. The new rules come as the country continues to recover from the pandemic's impact on travel.