15/09/2026
🇹🇭 PHUKET EXPAT HUB NEWS
Thailand Visa-Free Stay Reduced from 60 Days to 30 Days
Thailand has officially revised its visa exemption and Visa on Arrival policies, with the new measures taking effect from 15 September 2026.
One of the most important changes for foreign visitors is the cancellation of the previous 60-day visa exemption scheme. Under the revised policy, eligible tourists under the new visa-exemption scheme will generally be granted up to 30 days of stay for tourism purposes.
🔴 What has changed?
Previously, nationals of 93 countries and territories were eligible for Thailand's 60-day visa exemption scheme, introduced in July 2024.
From 15 September 2026, the 60-day visa exemption scheme has been revoked.
Thailand has revised the system to provide:
🇹🇭 30-Day Visa Exemption
For eligible countries and territories under the revised tourism visa-exemption scheme.
🇹🇭 15-Day Visa Exemption
A new 15-day exemption arrangement has also been introduced for certain countries/territories.
🇹🇭 Visa on Arrival (VoA)
The list of countries eligible for Visa on Arrival has also been revised.
The revised measures are part of Thailand's broader review of its visa policies, considering factors including national security, tourism and economic interests, reciprocity, and reducing overlapping visa privileges.
⚠️ Already in Thailand?
If you are already in Thailand under the previous visa-exemption scheme, you are not automatically required to leave Thailand on 15 September.
According to Thailand's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, foreigners who entered Thailand before the new measures took effect can remain until the permitted stay shown on their immigration stamp expires.
In other words:
Your immigration stamp matters.
Always check the exact “Admitted Until” date in your passport.
✈️ Planning to come to Phuket?
If you're planning to visit Phuket, stay longer than 30 days, or are considering living in Thailand for an extended period, it is important to understand which visa or immigration option matches your purpose of stay.
Depending on your circumstances, different visa categories may be available, including appropriate long-term or purpose-specific visa options.
Do not rely on information from old posts or previous experiences, as Thailand's visa policies have changed several times in recent years.
📌 Important Reminder
Visa exemption is not the same as a visa.
The permitted period of stay is determined by the immigration authorities and the applicable rules for your passport and purpose of travel.
Before travelling or making plans to stay long-term in Thailand, we strongly recommend checking the latest information from official Thai government sources or contacting the relevant Thai Embassy, Consulate, or Immigration Office.
