Thailand, one of the most popular travel destinations for Indian tourists, is preparing to tighten its visa-free entry rules. In a recent development, the Thai government is considering reducing the current visa-free stay period from 60 days to just 30 days for international travelers.
This move comes shortly after Thailand had expanded its visa-free policy in 2024 and early 2026, allowing citizens from over 90 countries, including India, to stay for up to 60 days without a visa. The decision was initially introduced to boost tourism and support economic recovery after the pandemic.
However, authorities are now rethinking this extended stay period. Officials believe that 60 days may be longer than necessary for most tourists and could be contributing to misuse of the system.
Why Thailand is changing the rule
According to government officials, the extended visa-free stay has raised concerns related to illegal activities. Some travelers have reportedly used the longer stay period for unauthorized work, running businesses, or other non-tourism purposes.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has indicated that reducing the stay duration to 30 days would help address these issues while still supporting genuine tourism.
Authorities also pointed out that most tourists typically stay for only 2–3 weeks, making a 30-day limit more practical and aligned with actual travel patterns.
What the new rule means
If implemented, travelers will be allowed to stay in Thailand visa-free for 30 days instead of 60. However, there is still flexibility for those who wish to stay longer.
Visitors can apply for a 30-day extension at local immigration offices, allowing them to remain in Thailand for up to 60 days in total if needed.
This means that while the initial stay period will be shorter, long-term travelers can still extend their visit through proper legal channels.
Impact on Indian travelers
Indian tourists have been major beneficiaries of Thailand’s relaxed visa policies. Earlier in February 2026, Thailand granted Indian passport holders a 60-day visa-free stay, replacing the previous visa-on-arrival system.
If the new proposal is approved, Indian travelers will also be subject to the revised 30-day visa-free limit. This could impact travelers planning extended vacations, remote work stays, or long-term visits.
That said, the extension option ensures that travel flexibility remains intact, especially for those who plan ahead.
When will the rule apply?
As of now, the new regulation has not yet been officially implemented. The Thai government is still in the proposal and review stage, and no exact date has been announced.
Until the changes are formally approved and enforced, the current 60-day visa-free stay remains valid for eligible travelers.
