Thailand Changes Visa-Free Stay Rules for Indians From September 15

Thailand is revising its visa-exemption policy for international visitors, including Indian tourists.

From September 15, 2026, travellers from 60 countries and territories, including India, the US, UK, Australia, Canada, UAE, Japan and several European nations, will be allowed to stay in Thailand visa-free for a maximum of 30 days, down from the existing 60-day limit.

The change does not end visa-free entry for Indian passport holders. Eligible travellers can continue to visit Thailand for tourism without obtaining a tourist visa beforehand, but those arriving from September 15 will receive a shorter permitted stay.

Travellers entering Thailand on or before September 14 will continue to receive the 60-day stay permitted under the existing exemption. The revised 30-day limit will apply to arrivals from September 15 onward.

What Does the New Rule Mean for Indians?

For most Indian tourists, the change is unlikely to have a major impact. Typical holidays lasting a week or two will remain unaffected. However, those planning extended backpacking trips, long island-hopping holidays or slow travel across several destinations will need to factor in the new limit.

Anyone planning to stay beyond 30 days will need to explore the appropriate visa or extension options rather than relying on the visa-exemption scheme.

The policy change is aimed at preventing misuse of the visa-free facility, including cases involving unauthorised employment and activities unrelated to tourism, while continuing to facilitate genuine visitors.

What Travellers Should Know

Indian travellers heading to Thailand after September 15 should:

• Check their arrival date and the applicable stay limit.
• Ensure their passport meets Thailand’s validity requirements.
• Keep return or onward travel details and accommodation information ready.
• Complete any mandatory digital arrival formalities.
• Plan ahead if they intend to stay longer than 30 days.
• Avoid overstaying, as penalties can apply.

Thailand continues to be a popular destination for Indian travellers, offering everything from Bangkok’s markets and temples to Phuket’s beaches, Chiang Mai’s mountains and Krabi’s islands. For most holidaymakers, the new 30-day visa-free limit will have little impact, but travellers planning longer stays will need to adjust their plans accordingly.