Thailand has reduced the visa-free stay for tourists from 60 countries and territories from 60 days to 30 days, effective September 15, 2026 [1, 2, 3]. The policy change was approved by the Thai Cabinet on July 14, 2026, and published in the Royal Gazette on August 31, 2026 [4, 5, 1].
The previous exemption allowing 60-day tourist stays was introduced on July 15, 2024, but will end with the new policy [4, 5, 1]. The revised 30-day visa exemption list includes Singapore, Malaysia, the United States, Britain, Taiwan, and 55 other countries or territories [4, 1, 6]. However, tourists from Peru, Brazil, and South Korea will now be allowed 90-day visa-free stays, an increase from the previous 60 days [1, 2].
Entry under the visa exemption scheme via land border checkpoints is limited to twice per calendar year except for nationals of Malaysia, Brunei, Indonesia, and Singapore, who are exempt from this limit [4, 5]. The Interior Ministry's notification repealed earlier directives from 2019 and 2022 related to the 30-day tourist visa exemption scheme [4, 1].
The Thai government said the change reflects national security, economic factors, and efforts to promote tourism while limiting misuse and foreign-related crime [4, 5]. A government official said, "The list was revised to reflect current circumstances, taking into account national security and economic considerations as well as the promotion of tourism" [4]. Tourist visas will be revoked and visitors deported if involved in disorderly conduct or illegal acts, especially in popular areas like Phuket and Koh Samui [3, 6].
Chinese citizens remain eligible for 30-day visa-free stays under bilateral agreements unaffected by the new policy, including a maximum cumulative stay of 90 days per 180-day period, the Chinese Embassy in Thailand confirmed, noting the change does not affect the China-Thailand visa agreement [3]. The Thai Foreign Ministry said the reduction affects more than 60 countries, including China, the US, and 27 EU nations [7].
Travelers who entered under the previous 60-day visa exemption before the new policy takes effect on September 15 can keep their original allowed stay [8].
