Thailand Updates Visa Rules for 65 Countries, Including 30-Day Visa-Free Entry for India

Thailand is updating its international visa arrangements, with new entry categories approved for citizens of 65 countries and territories. Among the changes is a proposed 30-day visa exemption for Indian travellers, creating another opportunity for visitors from one of Asia’s largest travel markets to enjoy holidays in Thailand.

The updated measures are designed to simplify Thailand’s visa framework while strengthening immigration screening and ensuring entry privileges reflect economic considerations, security, international relations and reciprocity.

Thailand Introduces New Entry Categories

On 16 July 2026, the Tourism Authority of Thailand announced that the Thai Cabinet had approved updated visa exemption and Visa on Arrival measures.

The revised system introduces a simpler principle of one country or territory, one entry category. Eligible nationalities will fall into one of three categories: a 30-day visa exemption, a 15-day visa exemption or Visa on Arrival.

Of the 65 countries and territories affected, 59 are set to receive eligibility for a 30-day visa exemption, subject to the formal implementation of the new measures.

30-Day Visa-Free Entry for Indian Travellers

India

India is included among the countries eligible for the proposed 30-day visa exemption.

The change is significant for Thailand’s tourism sector because India is a major international visitor market, with Indian travellers increasingly choosing Thailand for beach holidays, cultural experiences, shopping, wellness, food and family travel.

The revised arrangement could make planning a Thailand holiday more straightforward for eligible Indian passport holders once the new rules officially take effect.

Thailand Strengthens Digital Arrival Screening

Alongside visa facilitation, Thailand is strengthening its digital immigration screening procedures.

Security agencies are expected to enhance the Thailand Digital Arrival Card system to improve visitor screening and verification.

The updated visa framework also replaces the 60-day visa exemption introduced in July 2024, subject to the new measures becoming effective.

Travellers should check the latest requirements before departure because visa privileges can depend on nationality, passport conditions, travel purpose and the date of entry.

When Will the New Thailand Visa Rules Begin?

Bangkok

The updated measures require publication in Thailand’s Royal Gazette before taking effect. The announcement stated that the new rules would become effective 15 days after publication.

Until the changes are officially implemented, existing entry conditions remain in place. Travellers who enter Thailand before the new measures take effect retain the stay permission applicable to their entry.

Bilateral agreements between Thailand and individual countries will also continue to provide visa exemptions of varying durations where applicable.

Plan Your Thailand Holiday

Thailand’s updated visa framework is designed to make its international entry system more consistent while maintaining stronger screening procedures.

For Indian travellers and visitors from other eligible countries, the proposed 30-day visa exemption could provide greater flexibility for exploring destinations ranging from Bangkok and Phuket to Chiang Mai, Krabi, Pattaya and Thailand’s many islands.

Travellers should monitor official announcements from Thailand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Thai embassies and the Tourism Authority of Thailand for the latest entry requirements before booking and travelling.

Tourism Authority of Thailand
Website: https://www.tourismthailand.org/
Phone: +66 2 250 5500
Address: 1600 New Phetchaburi Road, Makkasan, Ratchathewi, Bangkok 10400, Thailand

Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand
Website: https://www.mfa.go.th/
Address: 443 Sri Ayudhya Road, Bangkok 10400, Thailand

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