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Thailand cuts Indian visa-free stay to 30 days
The Hindu··9 Sept
Thailand will cut the visa-free stay for Indian passport holders from 60 days to 30 days. The rules were published in the Royal Gazette on August 31, 2026. They take effect from September 15, 2026 and cover tourists from over 60 countries. Indians can still enter without a visa in advance for tourism, but for a shorter stay.
Prism
What It Means For You
- From September 15, Indian tourists get 30 visa-free days in Thailand instead of 60.
- Advance tourist visas are still not required for the exempted tourism entry itself.
- The same 30-day cap applies to the listed group of about 60 countries and territories.
What's Happening
- The Royal Gazette published the new rules on August 31, 2026, replacing the 2024 60-day exemption scheme.
- Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow said in May the trim targets abuse of visa-free stays for crime.
- AFP linked the shift to recent arrests over drugs, trafficking and unlicensed businesses.
Who Signed The Gazette Notice
- The notification was signed by Thailand Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul.
- The prior scheme covered travellers from more than 90 countries for up to 60 days.
- India sits on the new 30-day exemption list alongside the United States, United Kingdom and Japan.
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