Good news first: Thailand is still visa-free for Indian tourists. What changed is the length of stay. Since 15 September 2026, Indian passport holders get 30 days visa-free, down from 60.
What changed, and when
Thailand’s year of mixed headlines confused many travellers. Here is how it played out:
| Date | What happened |
|---|---|
| 15 Sep 2026 | New rules in force: Indians get a 30-day visa exemption for tourism |
| 31 Aug 2026 | Rules published in Thailand’s Royal Gazette |
| 14 Jul 2026 | Cabinet drops the VOA plan and puts India on the 30-day exemption list |
| 19 May 2026 | Cabinet scraps the 60-day scheme; India initially slated for Visa on Arrival (15 days, THB 2,000) |
| Jul 2024 | Indians added to the 60-day visa-exemption scheme |
If you entered Thailand before 15 September on the old 60-day exemption, your stay was not cut short. The 30-day limit applies to arrivals from that date on (TAT News).
What you need to enter Thailand
Visa-free does not mean document-free. Carry these for a smooth arrival:
- Passport valid for at least 6 months from arrival
- Return or onward ticket within 30 days
- Hotel bookings for your stay
- Proof of funds (cash, card or bank statement), as immigration can ask
- Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC), filled online within 72 hours before you land; it is mandatory for every visitor
Staying longer than 30 days? Apply for a tourist e-visa in advance at thaievisa.go.th, or ask Thai immigration about a one-time extension once you are in the country.
Crossing by land? Visitors using the 30-day exemption can generally enter through land-border checkpoints no more than twice per calendar year. Air arrivals are not capped this way.
Travelling for work? The exemption is for tourism. Business meetings, conferences or a job offer need the right visa category.
For fees and other visa types, see our Thailand visa guide.
Frequently asked questions
No, not for tourist trips of up to 30 days. You still need the TDAC.
No. The May 2026 plan to move India to Visa on Arrival was dropped before it took effect.
Get a tourist e-visa before you fly, or plan an extension in Thailand.
The 30-day rule applies until further notice; any change needs a fresh official announcement.
Sources
- TAT News: new 30-day and 15-day visa exemption rules from 15 September
- Business Today: Thailand cuts visa-free stay for Indians to 30 days
- Wego: Thailand restores visa-free entry after VOA plan dropped
Disclaimer: Visa rules, fees and processing times can change. Confirm the latest details on the official embassy, consulate or immigration website before you book or apply.