The Current Rule: A 60-Day Stay
As of late August 2026, Indian passport holders can still enter Thailand and stay for up to 60 days without a visa for tourism purposes. This is part of a visa exemption scheme that has been in place and remains active until new regulations are officially
implemented. While there has been significant discussion about changing the policy, the 60-day rule is what is currently being enforced at immigration checkpoints upon arrival. Travelers have continued to report receiving the 60-day entry stamp, confirming the policy is still active. This visa exemption is free of charge and designed to make travel simpler and more accessible for tourists.
An Impending Change to 30 Days
It's important for travelers to know that this 60-day window is expected to change. In July 2026, the Thai Cabinet officially approved a plan to revise its visa framework. Under the new rules, the visa-free stay for Indian citizens will be reduced to 30 days. This decision came after a period of uncertainty; an earlier proposal in May 2026 suggested moving India to a paid Visa on Arrival category with a 15-day limit, which caused a decline in bookings from Indian tourists. In response, the government reversed course and instead opted to keep India on the visa-exempt list, but with a shorter 30-day duration. This new 30-day rule is not yet in effect and will be implemented 15 days after it is published in the Royal Gazette, the official journal of the government. As of mid-August 2026, this publication was still pending.
What You Need for a Smooth Entry
Whether the stay is 60 or 30 days, arriving prepared is key for a hassle-free entry. Indian travelers must present several documents to immigration officials. First and foremost is your passport, which must be valid for at least six months from your date of entry. You will also need proof of a confirmed return or onward flight ticket showing you intend to leave Thailand within the permitted timeframe. Additionally, be prepared to show proof of accommodation, such as hotel bookings for your stay. While not always checked, immigration officers have the right to ask for proof of sufficient funds, which is typically set at 10,000 THB per person or 20,000 THB per family, or the equivalent in another currency. It is also mandatory for all foreign arrivals to complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) online within 72 hours before arrival.
Planning for a Longer Trip
What if you want to soak up the Thai sun for more than the visa-free period allows? You have options. Under the current 60-day visa exemption, you can apply for a further 30-day extension at a local immigration office in Thailand for a fee of 1,900 THB. Once the new 30-day rule comes into effect, a similar one-time 30-day extension will likely be available, allowing for a total stay of up to 60 days. For those who know from the start that their trip will exceed this, the best course of action is to apply for a 60-day Tourist Visa (e-Visa) online before leaving India. This provides certainty and avoids the need for an extension application while on vacation.
