Thailand Extends 60-Day Visa-Free Stay; Entry Rules Under Review

In 2026, Thailand is not undergoing an immediate overhaul of its visa procedures. However, it is tightening, revising, and clarifying its operations.

This week, the Cabinet validated a series of visa actions intended to stimulate tourism and enhance the economy. The initiative was proposed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and builds upon strategies that have been implemented since 2024.

Simply put, Thailand is maintaining its openness. Simultaneously, it seeks improved regulation over who can enter and the duration of their stay.

Here’s how that impacts travellers.

60-Day Visa Exemption Still Available for 93 Nations

One of the most significant visa regulations remains intact.

Since July 15, 2024, citizens from 93 nations have been permitted to enter Thailand without a visa, staying for up to 60 days. Visitors may also request an extension for an additional 30 days while remaining in the country.

The Cabinet has affirmed that this 60-day visa waiver will persist.

This scheme was aimed at attracting long-haul tourists and digital nomads desiring extended stays. And it has proven effective. Thailand has experienced a notable recovery in tourism as longer visits became more feasible.

However, there is a caveat. Officials have acknowledged that some visitors have exploited the system. Specifically:

• Repeated consecutive entries
• Engagements that don’t correspond with tourist classification
• Extended stays lacking appropriate long-term visas

As a result, the Thai government is currently reassessing how the program is supervised.

For the time being, the 60-day visa-free entry remains unchanged. Yet increased scrutiny may be forthcoming.

Visa-On-Arrival Remains Accessible for 31 Nations

Thailand is also continuing its highly regarded Visa-On-Arrival scheme.

Currently, 31 nations can request a Visa-on-Arrival at specific immigration checkpoints, facilitating short visits for those outside the 60-day exemption category.

Authorities are contemplating a potential second phase that could include an additional eight nations. No final determination has been made yet.

Destination Thailand Visa Aims at Remote Workers

Thailand is evidently thinking ahead beyond just short-term tourists.

The Destination Thailand Visa, commonly referred to as the DTV, caters to remote employees and professionals wishing to reside in Thailand while working online.

This reflects a global trend. Remote work is now widespread. Thailand seeks to capture a share of that demographic.

The DTV facilitates longer durations and offers digital workers a systematic approach to legally remain in the country.

Student Visa Regulations Also Broadened

Thailand has updated its educational visa options as well.

The Non-Immigrant ED Plus visa permits certain foreign students to study and work under defined conditions.

The objective is straightforward. Attract international students. Foster the economy. Provide adaptability.

This also aids in diversifying the types of visitors entering the nation.

Visa Process Streamlined and Digitized

Thailand has discreetly modernized its visa processes.

As of August 31, 2025, the country simplified its non-immigrant visa categories from 17 down to just seven main classifications. This results in reduced confusion and more straightforward processing.

The e-Visa framework was also expanded as of January 1, 2025. It now functions across 94 Thai embassies and consulates worldwide.

Travellers in most regions can apply online without having to visit an embassy in person. This streamlines the process and cuts down on paperwork.

Thailand Digital Arrival Card Now Mandatory

Thailand has transitioned from its previously mentioned Electronic Travel Authorization to a new requirement.

As of May 1, 2025, travellers are obligated to complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card prior to their arrival in the country.

This platform mandates visitors to provide their arrival information online within 72 hours before their departure.

It is not a visa. Instead, it serves as a digital pre-arrival registration. The intention is to expedite immigration processing and enhance data monitoring.

Should you be travelling to Thailand, this now forms part of your pre-trip preparations.

Government Examines Misuse of Visa-Free Entry

Now, the matter grows serious.

Authorities have expressed concerns regarding the misuse of the 60-day visa exemption. Lengthening the visa-free duration from 30 to 60 days has led to new possibilities. Most travellers have adhered to the guidelines. However, some have not.

Officials have noted instances of:

• Frequent long stays without the correct long-term visas
• Engagements in unofficial work
• Exploitable loopholes that undermine border enforcement

Consequently, the Prime Minister has formed a new committee to evaluate immigration policies.

This committee will:

• Assess the implications of the visa exemption initiative
• Investigate instances of abuse
• Recommend alterations if necessary

Potential revisions may involve stricter enforcement, updated eligibility criteria, or even reduced permitted durations in the future.

No changes have been enacted as of yet. However, the review is underway.

Long-Stay Visas for Retirees Under Evaluation

Thailand is also scrutinizing long-stay options for retirees.

The aim is to draw financially secure retirees while enhancing oversight. Officials desire economic contributions without regulatory lapses.

This indicates that Thailand is not closing its borders. Rather, it is refining its entry regulations to strike a balance between accessibility and control.

What This Means for Travellers

• The 60-day visa-free stay continues for qualifying nations.
• The Visa on Arrival option remains available for 31 nations.
• The Thailand Digital Arrival Card must be completed prior to travel.
• E-Visas can be easily accessed online.

At present, entering remains relatively uncomplicated compared to many other locations.

Nonetheless, Thailand is monitoring the application of its policies. The message is evident: tourism is welcome, but misuse is not.

For savvy travellers, this simply signifies one thing. Adhere to the system properly, and Thailand will continue to be among the most accessible long-term destinations in Asia.