Thailand is implementing significant changes to its visa-free entry policy, taking effect from September 15, 2026. Under these new regulations, 21 nationalities will lose their visa-free access to the country, and the total number of visa-exempt countries will be reduced from 93 to 60. Travelers currently eligible for the 60-day visa exemption can still benefit from it if they enter Thailand on or before September 14, 2026.
From September 15, the standard visa-free stay for most eligible nationalities will generally be capped at 30 days, altering the current entry framework.
21 Nationalities Requiring a Visa for Thailand from September 2026
Ordinary passport holders from the following 21 countries will be required to obtain a visa for tourism trips to Thailand starting September 15, 2026:
- Albania
- Andorra
- Colombia
- Cuba
- Dominica
- Dominican Republic
- Ecuador
- Guatemala
- Jamaica
- Kosovo
- Mexico
- Monaco
- Morocco
- Panama
- Papua New Guinea
- San Marino
- Sri Lanka
- Tonga
- Trinidad and Tobago
- Uruguay
- Uzbekistan
It’s important to note that while the main visa-free list is being reduced, several nationalities will maintain their visa-free access through separate bilateral agreements. These include citizens of China, Hong Kong, Kazakhstan, Laos, Macao, Mongolia, Russia, and Vietnam.
Additionally, Mauritius will receive a new 15-day tourist visa exemption under the updated policy.
Thailand Tourist Visa: What Changes for Affected Travellers?
For travelers from the 21 countries now requiring a visa, applying for a Thai visa prior to departure will become mandatory. The Thailand e-Visa is the primary online application route, simplifying the process as it often eliminates the need to visit a physical embassy or consulate.
The most common option for tourists is the Single-Entry TR Tourist Visa, which permits a stay of up to 60 days. This visa is typically valid for three months from its issuance date, and travelers can usually apply for a 30-day extension within Thailand, subject to a fee.
For those planning multiple visits, the Multiple-Entry Tourist Visa (METV) is available, offering validity for six months and allowing stays of up to 60 days per entry, based on eligibility criteria.
Plan Your Trip: Enter Thailand by September 14, 2026, to Use Current Visa-Free Rules
For travelers from affected nationalities, the date of entry into Thailand is crucial. If you enter Thailand on or before September 14, 2026, you may still be eligible for the existing 60-day visa exemption, provided you meet all current entry conditions.
However, for any entries made from September 15, 2026, onwards, the new visa requirements will strictly apply. Therefore, your focus should be on your actual arrival date in Thailand, not when your trip was booked or flight tickets issued.
Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) Still Required for All Foreign Travellers
Even with new visa requirements, all non-Thai nationals must continue to complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC). This electronic arrival form is mandatory before entering Thailand, regardless of whether you are arriving with a visa or under a visa exemption scheme.
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