The Biggest Change: A Shorter Visa-Free Stay
The most significant update for Indian tourists is the duration of the visa-exempt stay. Effective September 15, 2026, the temporary 60-day visa-free period has ended. Indian passport holders can now enter Thailand for tourism purposes without a visa for a maximum
of 30 days. This change brings India in line with a revised framework affecting visitors from 60 countries. The good news is that for the vast majority of tourists planning a standard holiday, a 30-day stay is more than sufficient. However, those who had grown accustomed to the longer 60-day window for extended vacations or workcations will need to adjust their plans. Officials have stated the move is part of a broader effort to regulate long-term stays and prevent misuse of the visa exemption scheme.
No More Paper: The Mandatory Digital Arrival Card
Say goodbye to the paper TM6 form that was once handed out on flights. All foreign visitors, including Indians, are now required to complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) before entry. This must be done online via the official TDAC portal within 72 hours of your arrival. The process is free of charge. After submitting your details, you will receive a QR code that you should save on your phone, as you will need to present it at airline check-in and to immigration officers in Thailand. The required information includes your passport details, flight number, and the address of your accommodation in Thailand. Failure to complete the TDAC can result in delays or issues at immigration.
Your Essential Document Checklist
While you may not need a visa for a short trip, you still need to have your documents in order. Immigration authorities expect you to be prepared. First, your passport must have at least six months of validity remaining from your date of arrival in Thailand. You should also carry proof of a confirmed return or onward flight ticket and details of your hotel bookings for the duration of your stay. The Embassy of India in Thailand has also issued an advisory reminding travellers to be ready to show proof of funds. Tourists using the visa exemption facility should carry at least 20,000 Thai Baht (approximately ₹58,000) per person, preferably in cash, to demonstrate they can cover their expenses.
What If You Want to Stay Longer Than 30 Days?
If your travel plans involve a stay longer than the permitted 30-day visa-free period, you cannot simply overstay. You have a couple of options. Travellers already in Thailand on a 30-day entry may be able to request a one-time extension for an additional 30 days at a local Thai immigration office, though approval is not guaranteed and a fee applies. For those who know from the outset that they need more than 30 days, the recommended path is to apply for a formal tourist visa in advance. This can be done through the official Thai e-Visa portal before you leave India and will grant you a 60-day stay. It's crucial not to use the visa exemption facility if you have a job offer or intend to work in Thailand.
