Thailand Reduces Visa-Free Stay to 30 Days Effective Sept. 15
Millions of tourists planning a trip to Thailand are facing a significant policy change. Starting September 15, 2026, the country will cut its popular visa-free stay in half — from 60 days down to 30 days. This change affects citizens of more than 60 countries, including all 27 EU member states, the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and Japan.
Thailand’s Ministry of Interior published four official regulations in the Royal Gazette on August 31, 2026. These regulations formally repeal the generous 60-day visa exemption that was introduced in July 2024 to boost post-pandemic tourism. The new rules take effect 15 days after publication. This means travellers who enter Thailand on or before September 14 will still receive the full 60-day allowance.
For those seeking a longer stay, Thailand’s Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) remains an option. This visa permits stays of up to 180 days per entry. However, applicants must demonstrate at least 500,000 Thai baht (approx. €13,000) in a bank account. Despite these changes, Thailand has attracted nearly 21 million foreign visitors in 2026 so far. Yet, this figure is down 3% compared to the same period last year.
Travel experts warn that the change particularly impacts digital nomads and long-stay tourists. These groups had relied on the 60-day window as a low-cost alternative to a formal visa. Travellers are advised to review the Thailand Authority of Tourism (TAT) official guidelines before booking autumn or winter trips.
Source: Euronews — Thailand confirms it will cut visa-free stays to 30 days for EU travellers