Thailand Confirms 60-Day Visa-Free Stay but Reviews Entry Rules for 2026

In 2026, Thailand is not changing its visa system overnight. But it is tightening, updating, and clarifying how it works.

This week, the Cabinet confirmed a set of visa measures aimed at supporting tourism and boosting the economy. The proposal came from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and builds on policies that have been rolling out since 2024.

In simple terms, Thailand is keeping its doors open. At the same time, it wants better control over who enters and how long they stay.

Here’s what that means for travellers.

60-Day Visa Exemption Still in Place for 93 Countries

One of the biggest visa policies remains unchanged.

Since July 15, 2024, nationals of 93 countries have been allowed to enter Thailand without a visa and stay for up to 60 days. Travellers can also extend their stay by another 30 days inside the country.

The Cabinet has confirmed that this 60-day visa exemption will continue.

This policy was designed to attract long-haul tourists and digital travellers who want more time in the country. And it worked. Thailand saw a strong tourism recovery as longer stays became easier.

But there’s a catch. Officials have admitted that some visitors misused the system. In particular:

• Repeated back-to-back entries
• Activities that do not match tourist status
• Long stays without proper long-term visas

Because of this, the Thai government is now reviewing how the scheme is monitored.

For now, the 60-day visa-free entry stays in place. But stricter checks could follow.

Visa-On-Arrival Still Available for 31 Countries

Thailand is also continuing its most popular Visa-On-Arrival program.

Currently, 31 countries are eligible to apply for a Visa-on-Arrival at designated immigration checkpoints. This makes short trips easier for travellers who are not part of the 60-day exemption group.

Authorities are reviewing a possible second phase that would add eight more countries. No final decision has been announced yet.

Destination Thailand Visa Targets Remote Workers

Thailand is clearly thinking beyond short-term tourists.

The Destination Thailand Visa, often called the DTV, is designed for remote workers and professionals who want to live in Thailand while working online.

This reflects a global shift. Remote work is no longer a niche lifestyle. Thailand wants a share of that market.

The DTV allows for longer stays and provides digital professionals with a structured way to remain in the country legally.

Student Visa Rules Also Expanded

Thailand has also updated its education-related visa.

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

The goal is simple. Attract international students. Support the economy. Create flexibility.

It also helps diversify the type of visitors entering the country.

Visa System Simplified and Moved Online

Thailand has quietly modernised its visa system.

As of August 31, 2025, the country reduced its non-immigrant visa codes from 17 to just seven main categories. That means less confusion and clearer processing.

The e-Visa system was also expanded on January 1, 2025. It now operates across 94 Thai embassies and consulates worldwide.

Travellers in most locations can apply online without visiting an embassy in person. That saves time and reduces paperwork.

Thailand Digital Arrival Card Now Required

Thailand has replaced its previously discussed Electronic Travel Authorization with something different.

Since May 1, 2025, travellers must complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card before entering the country.

The system requires visitors to submit their arrival details online within 72 hours before travel.

It is not a visa. It is a digital pre-arrival registration. The aim is to speed up processing at immigration and improve data tracking.

If you are travelling to Thailand, this is now part of your pre-trip checklist.

Government Reviews Abuse of Visa-Free Entry

Here’s where things get serious.

Authorities have acknowledged concerns about the misuse of the 60-day visa exemption. Extending the visa-free stay from 30 to 60 days created new opportunities. Most travellers used it properly. Some did not.

Officials have pointed to:

• Repeated long stays without proper long-term visas
• Informal work activities
• Loopholes that weaken border control

Because of this, the Prime Minister has established a new committee to review immigration policy.

This group will:

• Study the impact of the visa exemption program
• Analyse abuse cases
• Propose changes if needed

Possible adjustments could include stricter enforcement, revised eligibility rules, or even shorter permitted stays in the future.

Nothing has changed yet. But the review is active.

Long-Stay Visas for Retirees Also Under Review

Thailand is also looking at long-stay visas for retirees.

The goal is to attract financially stable retirees while improving oversight. Officials want economic contribution without regulatory gaps.

This suggests Thailand is not closing its doors. It is fine-tuning its entry rules to balance openness and control.

What This Means for Travellers

If you are planning a trip to Thailand in 2026:

• The 60-day visa-free stay remains valid for eligible countries.
• Visa on Arrival remains available for 31 countries.
• The Thailand Digital Arrival Card is required before travel.
• E-Visas are widely available online.

For now, entry remains relatively easy compared to many destinations.

But Thailand is watching how its policies are used. The message is clear. Tourism is welcome. Abuse is not.

For smart travellers, that simply means one thing. Use the system correctly, and Thailand remains one of the most accessible long-stay destinations in Asia.