On May 19, 2026, the Thai Cabinet voted to roll back the country's 60-day visa exemption, cutting the entry stamp back to 30 days for roughly 54 countries.
According to Thai Visa Services, the 60-day exemption was originally introduced in July 2024 as a tourism stimulus. The policy lasted 22 months before the Cabinet decided to revert to the previous 30-day standard.
The rollback also affects countries previously granted shorter exemptions. Indian nationals face the most significant restriction: India loses standard visa-free entry entirely and will now be moved to a 15-day Visa on Arrival.
What this means for you
If you rely on visa-exempt entries to visit or live part-time in Thailand, your runway has been cut in half.
- Shorter entry stamps: Passport holders from the 54 affected countries will now receive 30 days upon arrival instead of 60.
- Indian nationals: You can no longer enter visa-free and must prepare for a 15-day Visa on Arrival.
- Advance planning: Travelers intending to stay longer than 30 days will need to secure a formal tourist visa from a Thai embassy or consulate before flying.
While the Cabinet vote took place on May 19, travelers arriving in the coming weeks should monitor official announcements to see exactly when immigration officers at airports and land borders begin issuing the 30-day stamps.
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