Thailand Reverts Visa-Exempt Stay Duration to 30 Days and Restricts Entry to Tourism
Thailand has officially updated its entry rules for foreign travelers following the publication of four executive regulations in the Royal Gazette. Effective 15 September 2026, the temporary 60-day visa-exempt entry scheme introduced in July 2024 has ended. In its place, the Thai government has reinstated a 30-day visa exemption rule for visitors from 60 recognized countries and territories.
The official list published in the Royal Gazette clarifies earlier government statements, confirming that 60 countries and territories qualify for the 30-day visa-free entry. Under the updated framework, travelers holding passports from these designated nations can enter Thailand without obtaining a visa in advance for leisure visits lasting up to 30 days.
In addition to halving the allowed duration of stay from 60 days to 30 days, the government has narrowed the permitted scope of activity for visa-exempt arrivals. The new regulations explicitly specify that the visa-free entry scheme is strictly reserved for tourism purposes.
- Stays are capped at a maximum of 30 days upon arrival for eligible passport holders.
- Entry under the visa exemption is strictly limited to leisure and tourism activities.
- Travelers arriving for business purposes can no longer rely on tourist visa exemptions.
- Foreign nationals seeking longer stays must apply for appropriate formal visas prior to departure.
The narrowing of permitted travel purposes introduces significant compliance changes for business travelers. Previously, short-term visitors frequently utilized visa-exempt entry to attend business negotiations, perform site visits, or hold internal meetings. Under the new legal directives, if a trip takes place because of business activities, entering under a tourist visa exemption is no longer permitted.
| Travel Category | Permitted Status | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Tourism and Leisure | 30-Day Visa Exemption | Eligible passport from 60 designated nations |
| Short-Term Business Meetings | Non-Immigrant B Visa | Application via Thai e-Visa portal before travel |
| Technical Work or Local Services | Work Permit / Urgent Work Permit | Requires appropriate work authorization and visa |
Foreign citizens intending to participate in business meetings, trade discussions, or corporate oversight in Thailand are advised to secure a Non-Immigrant B visa prior to travel through the Thai e-Visa portal or at a Thai diplomatic mission. Single-entry Non-Immigrant B visas typically grant a stay of up to 90 days. Corporate directors who attend recurring board meetings may apply for multiple-entry options.
Travelers performing hands-on technical work, vendor supervision, or services that generate Thai-sourced value must obtain formal work authorization, such as an Urgent Work Permit, in addition to the proper visa category. Visa-on-arrival holders remain ineligible for Urgent Work Permits and are restricted to non-work travel.