The New Rule: 30 Days Visa-Free
The Thai Cabinet has officially confirmed that Indian passport holders will continue to enjoy visa-free entry into Thailand. However, the maximum duration for this visa-exempt stay has been set at 30 days. This decision aims to provide stability and clarity
for one of Thailand's largest tourist markets after weeks of speculation. The new rule was announced following a cabinet meeting on Tuesday, putting an end to the confusion that had previously caused a dip in arrivals from India.
A Change From the 60-Day Policy
This new 30-day period is a reduction from the previous policy, which allowed Indian tourists to stay for up to 60 days without a visa. That popular 60-day scheme was part of a wider initiative to boost tourism. The recent review of visa policies led to a proposal in May 2026 to remove India from the visa-exemption list entirely, which created significant uncertainty among travellers. The latest announcement effectively scraps that stricter proposal, but trims the stay period as a compromise.
Why Was This Change Made?
The decision to settle on a 30-day period is twofold. Firstly, it provides certainty to the Indian travel market, which is the third-largest source of tourists for Thailand. The government noted that the confusion had led to a decline in visitors and wanted to reverse that trend swiftly. Secondly, officials stated the 30-day limit aligns better with the actual travel habits of Indian tourists, whose average stay is around 7.2 days. The move is also part of a broader effort by the Thai government to manage its visa policies and curb misuse of long-term stays.
What This Means For Your Travel Plans
For the vast majority of Indian tourists planning a holiday, this change will have minimal impact. A 30-day window is more than sufficient for exploring multiple cities, islands, and cultural sites. It covers typical vacation lengths and even allows for a more extended, relaxed itinerary. If you are planning a trip longer than 30 days, you will now need to look into applying for a different type of visa in advance, such as a 60-day tourist e-visa, to cover your entire stay.
Don't Forget These Essential Requirements
While the visa is waived, entry is not automatic. All travellers must still comply with standard immigration requirements. Make sure you have these documents ready: your passport with at least six months of validity, a confirmed return or onward flight ticket, and proof of accommodation for your stay. Additionally, you must complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) online within 72 hours before you arrive. Immigration officials may also ask for proof of sufficient funds, which is typically around 20,000 THB, so it's wise to be prepared.
