Understanding Thailand’s upcoming visa changes

Thailand is reducing the standard visa-free stay from 60 days to 30 days, effective 15 September, for travelers from 60 countries and territories. The two-land border entry limit remains unchanged. Here's what travelers need to know. How long can I stay? Starting 15 September, visitors on the standard tourist visa exemption can stay up to 30 days per entry, down from the previous 60 days.

Those who entered before 15 September can stay until their passport's expiration date. Which countries are exempt? The 30-day scheme includes 60 countries and territories, such as Australia, Canada, India, Japan, Singapore, the UK and the US. Other nationalities may also qualify for visa-free entry under separate agreements with Thailand.

What is the two-land entry cap? Most visa-exempt travelers are limited to two land-border entries per calendar year. This rule, not new, has been in place under the current 60-day visa exemption. Exemptions exist for Malaysians, Bruneians, Indonesians and Singaporeans. When does the reset happen? No reset is planned. The land-border cap operates on a yearly basis, so the September 15 change does not grant travelers a fresh two entries for the rest of 2026.

Air travel? The two-entry limit does not apply to air arrivals. However, this does not guarantee unlimited visa runs via air. Immigration has tightened screening for those who repeatedly enter and leave Thailand via visa exemption without legitimate reasons. What if I'm already in Thailand? Travelers who entered before 15 September can stay until the date stamped in their passport.

Their existing 60-day permit will not be shortened by the new rules. What else is changing? The 30-day exemption is for tourism purposes only. Seychellois and Mauritian passport holders have a separate 15-day visa exemption. Visa on Arrival is available to Azerbaijan, Belarus and Serbia. Non-tourist travelers should check if they need a proper visa.

Before crossing the border, be aware that using all two visa-exempt land entries in the current calendar year does not reset on 15 September. Further entries may be denied unless you qualify for an exemption. Even without reaching the land-border cap, entry is not guaranteed; immigration officers can still scrutinize your travel history and purpose of visit.

All foreign travelers must submit a Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) before entering, which must be completed before each visit, whether by land or air.