The End of the 60-Day Welcome
For some time, Indian passport holders have enjoyed an unusually generous 60-day visa-free stay in Thailand, a policy introduced in 2024 to reinvigorate the tourism sector. This popular scheme made longer holidays, workations, and multi-city explorations
incredibly easy. However, this extended welcome is not permanent. The Thai government has confirmed that this specific 60-day exemption period is being phased out. For travelers who were hoping to take advantage of a two-month stay without visa formalities, the deadline to enter under these rules is approaching, marking a significant shift in the country's travel policy.
A Summer of Policy Changes
The change follows a period of considerable confusion for travelers. In May 2026, the Thai Cabinet first announced it would end the 60-day visa-free scheme, with initial plans to move India into a paid Visa on Arrival (VoA) category that limited stays to just 15 days. This news caused immediate concern and was reported to have led to a decline in travel bookings from India, one of Thailand's largest tourism markets. Recognizing the economic impact and feedback from the tourism sector, the government quickly reconsidered its position. By July 2026, a major policy U-turn was announced, confirming that visa-free travel for Indians would continue, but with revised conditions.
The New Rule: 30 Days, Still Visa-Free
The great news for most tourists is that Thailand remains a visa-free destination for Indians. The new, confirmed policy grants Indian passport holders a 30-day visa-exempt stay. For the average holidaymaker, this is more than enough time, as the typical stay for Indian visitors is around one week. Crucially, this is not a Visa on Arrival; it is a true visa exemption, meaning there is no fee and no need to apply for anything before you travel. The change simply brings the duration of stay in line with what officials say better matches the travel patterns of most Indian visitors.
So, What Is the Deadline?
The transition from the 60-day policy to the new 30-day policy is tied to a specific administrative step. The new rule will officially come into effect 15 days after it is published in Thailand's Royal Gazette. As of late August 2026, the publication was still pending, meaning the 60-day rule technically remained in force. The 'deadline' for the 60-day scheme is therefore the date the new policy is gazetted and becomes law. Once that happens, any Indian traveler arriving in Thailand will be granted a 30-day stay. Travelers planning their trips should monitor official announcements, but the key takeaway is that the switch is imminent.
What You Still Need to Travel
While you won't need a visa, 'visa-free' does not mean document-free. All travelers should be prepared to present several key items to immigration officials upon arrival in Thailand. This includes a passport with at least six months of validity, proof of a confirmed return or onward flight, evidence of accommodation booking for your stay, and sufficient funds for your expenses. Furthermore, all foreign travelers must complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) online before their journey. Having these documents organised will ensure a smooth and hassle-free entry process, allowing you to start your holiday without delay.
