Thailand’s New Visa Exemption Rules Are Now in Force

Thailand’s revised entry rules took effect on 15 September 2026. The broad 60-day visa-exemption scheme has ended. A new 30-day tourism exemption covers ordinary passport holders from 60 countries and territories; two have a 15-day exemption, and three are eligible for Visa on Arrival. Your passport and travel purpose determine which arrangement applies.

What changed today?

These figures come from Thailand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Eligibility is country-specific; bilateral visa-waiver agreements and other visa categories remain separate. Do not assume that every traveller formerly eligible for 60 days now receives 30.

Already in Thailand? Check your admitted-until date

If you entered before 15 September under the rules then in force, today’s change does not automatically cut short the stay immigration granted. The ministry says travellers already in Thailand, or arriving before the start date, may remain until the last date of the permitted stay shown on their immigration stamp. Read our transition guide for arrivals before 15 September and check your own record rather than calculating from the date of this announcement.

Planning a new visit?

Check the official 2026 scheme summary for your passport, then confirm any conditions with the Thai embassy or consulate serving you. The new exemptions are described by the ministry as tourism arrangements. If you intend to work, stay longer, or enter repeatedly, seek the appropriate visa before travel; a visa exemption is not a substitute for permission matching your purpose.

Repeat-entry guidance needs particular care. The revised land-border rule limits most visa-exempt land entries to two per calendar year, with stated exceptions. The Thai embassy in London uses broader wording about two visa-exempt entries. Read our land-border explanation and check with the embassy relevant to your passport and route before relying on repeat entries.

For the wider background, see our overview of the 30-day reform or browse the latest Thailand Visa News. If the shorter exemption affects a longer stay in Hua Hin, contact Next Step Hua Hin to discuss a suitable visa route.

Source: Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs, 3 September 2026 briefing. Checked 15 September 2026. Entry decisions and extensions remain subject to the competent Thai authorities.