Thailand Visa and Travel News
Thailand is preparing to overhaul its visa exemption and visa-on-arrival programs. Following the announced end of the 60-day visa-free scheme for 93 countries and territories, the future policy would introduce several permitted lengths of stay, distinguishing between general exemptions, bilateral agreements and visas on arrival.
Thailand’s Cabinet has approved the end of the 60-day visa exemption introduced in 2024 for travelers from 93 countries and territories. The measure still needs to be formally implemented by the relevant authorities, but it is expected to bring back the previous entry rules, generally around 30 days of visa-free stay for many nationalities.
During the presentation of his government’s policy statement to Parliament, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul today formally confirmed that Thailand’s visa-free policy will soon be reviewed.
The reduction of Thailand’s visa-free stay is not yet finalized, but it is taking shape. The Minister of Foreign Affairs has confirmed that a proposal to shorten the visa exemption period from 60 to 30 days will soon be submitted to the government.
In response to air travel disruptions caused by escalating tensions in the Middle East, Thailand is introducing exceptional measures for foreign travelers unable to leave the country. Thai immigration authorities have notably announced the waiver of overstay fines in certain cases, while tourism officials are considering financial assistance for visitors stranded in the country.
While numerous reports in recent weeks have suggested an imminent reduction in the length of visa-free stays in Thailand, authorities have confirmed that the policy is indeed under review, but no final decision has yet been made.
At its meeting on February 10, 2026, the Cabinet approved a progress report on Thailand’s visa reform initiative launched in 2024 to support tourism and stimulate the national economy. While most of the measures are already in effect, authorities confirmed their consolidation and signaled several potential adjustments, including a possible revision of the 60-day visa exemption in response to documented cases of abuse.
Against a regional backdrop marked by persistent tensions between Cambodia and Thailand, the Royal Embassy of Cambodia in France has issued a travel advisory. The statement warns of certain difficulties encountered during air transit through Bangkok, while urging travelers to exercise caution and carefully plan their travel itineraries.
Thailand’s Ministry of Tourism and Sports and the Department of Consular Affairs have confirmed the launch of consultations on the 60-day visa exemption policy, which has been in effect since July 2024. No decision has been made yet, but a return to a shorter stay period for certain travelers is now officially under consideration.
After dropping this requirement in 2023, Thailand has reinstated the need to show proof of financial means for tourist visa applicants. As of May 2025, individuals applying for a tourist visa to Thailand must once again provide evidence of sufficient financial resources. This requirement was originally removed in November 2023
Thailand is moving away from the paper TM6 form. Starting May 1, 2025, all foreign travelers will be required to complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC), within 72 hours before entering the country.
A measure under discussion, but nothing definite. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirms that no changes have yet been made to the possible reduction of visa-free stays in Thailand from 60 to 30 days. A review is certainly underway, but as part of the usual procedure. While the possibility of
After extending visa-free stays to 60 days to attract tourists, Thailand may be backtracking. The reason? Abuses reported by the authorities. A measure yet to be confirmed, but one that could impact many travelers.
From May 1, 2025, Thailand will adopt a new digital immigration system: the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC). This system will replace the paper TM6 form, with the aim of simplifying entry procedures for foreign travelers. Thailand’s Ministry of Tourism and Sports today confirmed the preparation of a forthcoming online
Thailand fully adopts e-Visa from January 2025, making the visa application process simpler, faster and more accessible for foreign travelers.
