Thailand is set to reduce the visa-free stay allowed for Indian tourists from 60 days to 30 days, starting September 15. The change will also apply to visitors from more than 60 countries and territories as Bangkok moves to tighten its immigration rules.
Indian passport holders will continue to enjoy visa-free entry into Thailand. However, those arriving from September 15 will be allowed to remain in the country for a maximum of 30 days without a visa, compared with the 60-day limit introduced in 2024.
Travellers entering Thailand before September 15 will continue to be covered by the existing rules applicable at the time of their entry.
Thailand’s foreign ministry said the move is aimed at preventing people from misusing the visa-exemption system. Authorities have recently raised concerns over foreigners allegedly becoming involved in activities that violate Thai laws, including drug-related offences, sex trafficking and operating businesses without the required permits.
Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow said the shorter stay period is part of wider efforts to stop people from abusing the visa-free arrangement for criminal activities or purposes that are not permitted under the scheme.
The new 30-day limit will cover visitors from countries including India, China, the United States and 27 European Union nations. Travellers who want to remain longer may still be able to apply for an extension after entering Thailand, although approval will depend on an immigration officer.
The change is unlikely to have a major impact on most Indian holidaymakers. Indian tourists generally spend around a week in Thailand. However, the shorter limit could affect backpackers, digital nomads, long-term travellers and others who previously relied on the 60-day visa-free period.
Thailand is also introducing other changes. Nationals of Azerbaijan, Belarus and Serbia will move to the Visa on Arrival system. Travellers using land borders will be limited to two visa-exempt entries per calendar year, while no similar restriction will apply to repeated entries by air or sea.
Under the revised system, citizens of 59 countries and territories will receive 30 days of visa-free stay, while visitors from Mauritius and Seychelles will get 15 days.
The changes come as Thailand faces a slight decline in foreign tourist arrivals. Official figures show that the country received around 20.9 million international visitors in 2026 up to the latest reporting period, about 3% fewer than during the corresponding period last year.
For Indian tourists, the key point remains unchanged: Thailand will continue to be a visa-free destination, but from September 15, the maximum stay without a visa will be 30 days instead of 60.
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