Thailand's visa-free entry policy could soon see a significant change. Months after extending visa-free stays to 60 days for travellers from 93 countries, including India, authorities are now reviewing a proposal to reduce the duration back to 30 days. As of March 2026, the plan is under consideration by the Cabinet, though the current 60-day rule remains in place for now, stated News18 in its report.
Why is Thailand reconsidering the policy?
The extended 60-day visa exemption was introduced to revive tourism after the pandemic. While it helped bring in large numbers of visitors, officials say it has also led to certain challenges.
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Reports suggest that in popular destinations such as Phuket, some foreign nationals have been using extended stays to run unauthorised businesses, particularly in sectors reserved for Thai citizens. Authorities have also raised concerns about misuse of the policy by individuals linked to regional online scam networks.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has noted that a two-month stay is “longer than necessary" for genuine tourists and may be used to avoid applying for more suitable long-term visas like the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV).
What is the proposed '30+30' system?
If approved, the revised framework would allow travellers to enter Thailand visa-free for 30 days instead of 60. However, visitors would still have the option to extend their stay.
Initial entry: 30 days visa-free
Extension: An additional 30 days, likely requiring a visit to an immigration office and a fee of around 1,900 THB.
Alongside this, Thailand has introduced the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC), replacing paper forms in 2025. This system is designed to track travellers more closely, especially those making repeated entries.
What does this mean for Indian travellers?
For most short-term visitors, travel plans are unlikely to be affected. India remains one of Thailand's largest tourism markets, with a target of 2.55 million visitors in 2026.
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However, those planning longer stays, such as wellness retreats or extended holidays, may need to account for additional steps, including visa extensions and possible scrutiny at entry points. Since early 2026, immigration officers have also been given greater discretion to question frequent travellers, particularly those with multiple long-stay entries in recent records.
