Thailand has officially ended its popular 60-day visa-free policy for Indians and over 93 Countries
If you’ve been dreaming of golden temples, turquoise beaches, and spicy street food in Thailand, here’s an important travel update you simply cannot miss. Thailand has officially ended its popular 60-day visa-free policy for Indians and over 93 Countries — and the new rules are already in effect. Whether you’re planning a family holiday, a solo backpacking trip, or a honeymoon getaway, read this before you book those tickets.
What Just Changed?
On May 19, 2026, Thailand’s Cabinet officially cancelled the 60-day visa-free entry policy that had been in place for Indians and travellers from over 93 countries. The announcement was made by Thailand’s Tourism and Sports Minister, Surasak Phancharoenworakul, and was posted on Thailand’s official government X (Twitter) account.
The revised rules will come into effect 15 days after the announcement is published in Thailand’s Royal Gazette, so Indian travellers planning upcoming trips need to pay close attention to this timeline.
Thailand is scrapping its 60-day visa-free policy for 90+ nations. Entry rules will revert to original bilateral terms — varying by passport. Reason: tighter security screening and cracking down on overstays. The Visa Policy Committee will review each country individually. pic.twitter.com/vso9afsMNO
— PR Thai Government (@prdthailand) May 19, 2026
A Quick Look Back: How Did We Get Here?
To understand the change, let’s rewind a bit.
- November 2023: Thailand introduced relaxed visa-free entry to revive tourism after COVID-19 devastated its economy. Tourism contributes more than 10% of Thailand’s GDP, making foreign visitors essential.
- July 2024: Thailand extended the visa-free stay for Indians from 30 days to 60 days — one of the most generous visa-free arrangements for Indian passport holders anywhere in Southeast Asia.
- May 2026: Thailand reversed course, ending the 60-day policy due to growing concerns over security, overstays, and misuse of the relaxed entry system.
Why Did Thailand End the 60-Day Rule?
- Rising overstays: Many tourists were using the long visa-free window to stay beyond permitted periods, taking up unofficial work or residency.
- Security concerns: High-profile cases involving foreigners allegedly linked to drug offences, sex trafficking, and organised crime prompted the government to tighten screening.
- Policy review: Thailand’s Visa Policy Committee was tasked with reviewing each country’s entry terms individually rather than applying a blanket long-stay rule.
Old vs New Thailand Visa Rules for Indians
|
Rule
|
Old Policy (Till May 2026)
|
New Policy (After Change)
|
|---|---|---|
|
Entry Type
|
Visa-Free
|
Visa on Arrival (VoA)
|
|
Permitted Stay
|
60 Days
|
15 Days
|
|
Visa Fee
|
None
|
Applicable (approx. THB 2,000)
|
|
Extension
|
Once via immigration
|
At officer's discretion
|
|
Documents Required
|
Minimal
|
Return ticket, funds proof, hotel booking
|
What Does This Mean for Indian Travellers?
India has now been moved out of Thailand’s visa-free list and placed into the Visa on Arrival (VoA) category — alongside countries like Azerbaijan, Belarus, and Serbia.
Here’s what you need to enter Thailand now:
- Valid Indian passport (at least 6 months validity)
- Completed Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) — fill this within 72 hours before travel
- Confirmed return or onward flight ticket
- Hotel booking or confirmed accommodation
- Proof of sufficient funds for your stay
- Visa on Arrival fee (around THB 2,000, approximately ₹4,500–₹5,000)
- A landing fee of approx. THB 300 may also apply (official rollout awaited)
Are You Already in Thailand? Don't Worry.
Planning Your Thailand Trip in 2026? Here's Our Advice
- Book early and plan properly — those spontaneous “book now, worry later” trips will now require more preparation.
- Keep travel documents ready — return tickets, hotel confirmations, and bank statements are essential.
- Check the Royal Thai Embassy India website for the latest official updates, as rules are evolving week to week.
- Consider a Thailand Tourist Visa (TR Visa) if you plan to stay longer than 15 days — it allows up to 60 days and can be extended.
- Work with a trusted travel agency (like us!) to handle documentation, itineraries, and hassle-free holiday planning.
Thailand Is Still a Dream Destination — Just Plan Smarter
Yes, the rules have changed. Yes, it’s a little more paperwork. But Thailand remains one of the most affordable, beautiful, and accessible international destinations for Indian travellers. From the bustling streets of Bangkok to the serene islands of Koh Samui and the cultural richness of Chiang Mai — the magic hasn’t gone anywhere.
At Universal Dream Services, we make sure your Thailand holiday remains stress-free. From visa assistance to tailor-made tour packages, we handle the details so you can focus on the adventure.