Thailand Ends 60-Day Visa-Free Entry For Indians, Tightens Travel Rules

Thailand has officially scrapped its 60-day visa-free entry scheme for Indian travellers as part of a major immigration policy overhaul , ending the extended stay facility introduced in 2024 to boost tourism.

Under the revised framework approved by the Thai Cabinet, the earlier 60-day visa exemption for 93 countries, including India, has been discontinued. In its place, Thailand is reverting to shorter visa validity rules , with most travellers expected to receive a 30-day visa-free stay or visa-on-arrival facility , depending on nationality and updated bilateral arrangements.

For Indian nationals, reports indicate a return to Visa on Arrival (VoA) status, replacing the earlier visa-free entry benefit. This shift will significantly reduce flexibility for long-duration holidays, weddings, and extended leisure travel.

Officials have linked the decision to concerns over visa overstays, illegal employment, and misuse of long-term tourist privileges . Authorities also stated that the reform is intended to strengthen border security, streamline entry categories, and reduce overlapping visa systems under a simplified “one country, one visa privilege” framework.

According to the updated policy structure, Thailand will now operate a tiered entry system, including 30-day visa exemptions for most eligible countries , a limited 15-day category for select nations , and a reduced visa-on-arrival list . The overall goal, officials said, is to balance tourism growth with stricter immigration control.

The revised rules were approved on May 19, 2026 , and are expected to come into effect 15 days after publication in the Royal Gazette . Travellers already holding valid entry permissions at the time of implementation are expected to retain their original stay conditions.

The move marks a significant shift for Thailand’s tourism policy, which had previously expanded visa-free access to attract post-pandemic travel demand. While the country continues to prioritise tourism, the new approach signals a clear transition toward tighter screening and regulated entry durations.