The Visa Situation: A Policy Reversal
There has been significant back-and-forth regarding visa rules for Indians in 2026. After a decision in May to end the popular visa-free scheme and move India back to the Visa on Arrival (VoA) category, the Thai Cabinet reversed this decision. As of a cabinet
meeting on July 14, 2026, the policy was reinstated to grant a 30-day visa exemption for Indian passport holders. This move came after confusion led to a reported drop in arrivals from India. However, this new 30-day exemption replaces the previous, more generous 60-day visa-free stay. It is crucial for travellers to know that these changes are pending official publication in the Royal Gazette and will take effect 15 days after that. Until then, the previous conditions remain in place, so checking the latest status right before your travel date is essential.
Mandatory Digital Arrival Card
Regardless of your visa status, one requirement is now non-negotiable for all foreign travellers: the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC). This has completely replaced the old paper-based TM.6 arrival and departure form. You must complete the TDAC online within 72 hours of your arrival in Thailand. The process is free and can be done via the official immigration website. Upon completion, you will receive a QR code, which you must present to airline staff at check-in and to immigration officers upon landing at airports like Suvarnabhumi (BKK) or Phuket (HKT). Having this QR code ready on your phone or as a printout is critical for a hassle-free entry process.
Essential Documents to Carry
While the visa exemption simplifies one part of the process, Thai immigration authorities still require a set of documents to ensure you are a genuine tourist. Being unprepared can lead to delays or, in worst-case scenarios, denial of entry. Your checklist should include a passport with at least six months of validity from your date of entry. You must also have proof of a confirmed return or onward flight ticket out of Thailand. Immigration officers may also ask for proof of accommodation for your stay, such as hotel booking confirmations. It is highly recommended to have printouts or easily accessible digital copies of all these documents.
Proof of Funds: The Cash Rule
A significant point of emphasis in the updated guidelines is the requirement to prove you have sufficient funds for your trip. Immigration officers retain the discretion to ask travellers to show proof of funds. The standard amount is 10,000 Thai Baht (THB) per individual or 20,000 THB per family. Some reports and advisories even suggest that for those using the Visa on Arrival facility, this amount must be shown in cash, as digital bank statements or credit card limits may not be accepted. While the visa exemption is in place, carrying a reasonable amount of cash is a safe bet to avoid any issues if you are subject to a random check at the immigration counter.
Navigating Major Airports
The process at major international gateways like Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi (BKK) and Don Mueang (DMK) airports, as well as Phuket International Airport (HKT), has been streamlined by the TDAC system. However, these airports handle immense volumes of tourists, and being prepared is key. Ensure your documents are organised and ready for inspection. Follow the signs for foreign passports and have your passport and TDAC QR code in hand. If the visa exemption is active upon your arrival, you will proceed directly to the immigration counters. If the rules revert to Visa on Arrival, you will first need to go to the VoA counter to pay the fee (typically 2,000 THB) and get your visa before proceeding to immigration. Always check the latest directives before you fly.
