The Official Change: What the Royal Gazette Says
Thailand's government has officially announced a change to its visa-exemption policy, published in the Royal Gazette on August 31, 2026. This makes the new rules definitive. For Indian tourists, the key takeaway is that while visa-free entry continues,
the permitted duration of stay will be reduced. Effective from September 15, 2026, the visa-free stay for Indian passport holders will be capped at 30 days. This replaces the previous, more generous 60-day visa exemption scheme that had been in place since 2024. The notification clarifies the rules for travellers from 60 countries, including India, streamlining the entry process under a single 30-day framework.
Key Dates: When Does This New Rule Apply?
The transition has a clear cut-off date. The new 30-day rule will apply to all Indian tourists entering Thailand on or after September 15, 2026. If your travel plans have you arriving before this date, you can still benefit from the old system. Anyone entering Thailand on or before September 14, 2026, will be granted the existing 60-day stay. Their permitted stay will not be shortened once the new rule kicks in. This grandfathering clause provides a clear window for those who had already planned longer trips based on the previous 60-day allowance.
Why the Change? A Shift in Policy
The decision to shorten the visa-free period is part of a broader strategy by Thai authorities to tighten immigration controls. Officials have cited concerns over the misuse of the longer 60-day stay by some foreign nationals for activities outside the scope of tourism, such as illegal work or other crimes. The previous 60-day rule was introduced in 2024, partly to help boost the tourism sector's recovery. Now, the government is aiming to strike a balance between welcoming genuine tourists and preventing exploitation of the system. For the vast majority of Indian holidaymakers, whose average trip duration is around one week, this change will have minimal impact.
What You Still Need to Enter
Visa-free entry does not mean document-free travel. Indian tourists should continue to carry all necessary documents. This includes a passport with at least six months of validity from your date of entry. Immigration officials may also ask for proof of a confirmed return or onward flight ticket, evidence of accommodation bookings, and proof of sufficient funds for your stay. The commonly cited amount is THB 20,000 per family, though this can be subject to checks at the discretion of the immigration officer. Additionally, all foreign travellers are required to fill out the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) online before arrival.
Planning a Longer Stay? Here Are Your Options
If your travel plans extend beyond 30 days, you still have options. The Royal Thai Embassy advises travellers who wish to stay longer to apply for an appropriate tourist e-visa in advance of their trip. It may also be possible to apply for a 30-day extension once you are in Thailand by visiting a local immigration office. However, this extension is not guaranteed and is granted at the discretion of the immigration officer, costing approximately 1,900 THB. For those planning extended stays, securing the correct visa before you travel remains the most reliable course of action to ensure a smooth and stress-free holiday.
