Thailand Cuts Visa-Free Stay to 30 Days: What Travellers Need to Know

Thailand's cabinet has officially revoked the 60-day visa-free scheme, reducing the permitted stay for visitors from 93 eligible countries back to 30 days. The change was introduced to strengthen border security and address the growing misuse of tourist visas by foreigners working in Thailand without authorisation.

What Has Changed

Until recently, citizens from 93 approved countries including the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia and most EU nations could enter Thailand without a visa and stay for up to 60 days. That scheme has now been scrapped. The permitted stay on a visa-free entry is 30 days.

A one-time 30-day extension is still available. You can apply at any local Thai Immigration Bureau office for a fee of 1,900 Baht, giving you a maximum stay of 60 days on a single visa-free entry.

The Thailand Digital Arrival Card

Alongside the visa-free policy change, the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) is now mandatory for all international arrivals. You must complete it before clearing border control. The card can be filled out online before your flight. Failing to complete it before arrival may cause delays at immigration.

Long-Stay Options for Visitors

If 30 to 60 days is not enough for your plans, Thailand offers several visa options designed for longer stays.

Destination Thailand Visa (DTV)

The DTV is aimed at remote workers, digital nomads and people travelling to Thailand for activities such as Muay Thai training, Thai cooking classes or other approved purposes. It offers an extended stay with multiple entry options and is one of the most flexible visa types currently available for long-stay visitors.

E-Tourist Visa

The e-Tourist Visa allows a stay of up to 60 days per entry and can be applied for online through the official Thai e-Visa website before you travel. This is a straightforward option for visitors who need more than 30 days but do not qualify for or require the DTV.

Non-Immigrant Visas

For those retiring in Thailand, married to a Thai national, or working legally, Non-Immigrant visas remain the appropriate long-term solution. These are issued annually and require specific documentation depending on the category.

Who Is Affected

Citizens from the 93 approved nationalities who previously entered on the 60-day visa-free scheme are now limited to 30 days. If you are already in Thailand on a visa-free entry that was granted under the old 60-day scheme, check with your local immigration office regarding your current permitted stay.

For the full and current list of qualifying nationalities, consult the Royal Thai Consulate-General.

What Should You Do Now

If your travel plans are affected by this change, the options depend on your situation:

• Staying up to 60 days: Enter visa-free and apply for the 30-day extension at an immigration office for 1,900 Baht
• Staying up to 60 days with more convenience: Apply for an e-Tourist Visa before you travel
• Staying longer or working remotely: Apply for the Destination Thailand Visa
• Retiring or living with a Thai spouse: Apply for the appropriate Non-Immigrant visa

If you are unsure which option applies to your situation, we offer a free first consultation to assess your specific circumstances and recommend the correct visa category.