Thailand plans 30-day visa-free stay cap for 93 countries including India

Thailand is planning to reduce the visa-free stay period for travellers from 93 countries, including India, from 60 days to 30 days. The move comes as authorities look to tighten regulations around long-term stays and prevent misuse of tourist visas.

Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkaeow said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs would soon submit the proposal to the Cabinet for approval. However, no timeline has yet been announced for when the revised rules could come into effect.

Thailand introduced the expanded 60-day visa-free policy in July 2024 for visitors from 93 countries. The scheme currently allows Indian travellers to enter Thailand without a visa for tourism or short-term business visits for up to 60 days, with the option of extending the stay by another 30 days through local immigration offices.

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Why Thailand wants to tighten visa-free travel rules

Thai authorities say the move is aimed at preventing illegal activities and misuse of the visa-free entry programme.

According to the Bangkok Post, officials believe the current 60-day stay period may be longer than necessary for regular tourism purposes and could be exploited by individuals engaging in unauthorised work or business activities.

Authorities have also announced stricter checks on other visa categories to ensure visitors comply with the stated purpose of their visas.

The government has clarified that the proposed review is not targeted at any particular country. Instead, it is part of a broader effort to regulate long-term foreign stays and illegal business operations.

What it means for Indian travellers

For Indian tourists, the biggest change would be a shorter visa-free stay period if the proposal is approved.

At present, Indians can stay in Thailand visa-free for up to 60 days. Under the proposed revision, the duration could be reduced to 30 days, although travellers may still be eligible for extensions under certain immigration rules.

The policy is expected to primarily affect long-term travellers and those using tourist entry routes for extended stays.

Short holiday travellers are unlikely to face major disruptions.

Thailand remains of the most sought after holiday destinations for Indian tourists. The country is targeting 2.55 million Indian visitors this year. The new rule might have some effect on the tourist influx, however, the real picture is yet to be examined.

Thailand still pushing long-term tourism

Interestingly, even as Thailand considers reducing visa-free stay durations, the country continues to promote long-term tourism through other visa programmes.

Thailand recently introduced the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV), which allows eligible foreigners, including Indians, to stay in the country for extended periods through a five-year multiple-entry visa system.

The initiative is aimed at attracting remote workers, digital nomads and long-stay visitors while boosting tourism and cultural exchange.

Tourism remains crucial for Thailand’s economy

Tourism continues to play a major role in Thailand’s economy.

According to official figures, Thailand received 12.4 million foreign tourists between January 1 and May 10, 2026, marking a 3.43 per cent decline compared to the same period last year.

Before the pandemic, Thailand recorded nearly 40 million foreign arrivals in 2019, making it one of the world’s most visited tourist destinations.

Officials now appear focused on balancing tourism growth with tighter immigration oversight and better regulation of long-term foreign stays.