Thailand Modifies Visa Exemption and Visa on Arrival Schemes

The government's newly approved measures, announced on May 19, 2026, include the cancellation of the 60-day visa exemption scheme for all 93 previously eligible countries and a reduction in the number of nationalities permitted the 30-day tourism exemption, from 57 to 54. Additionally, a new 15-day visa exemption scheme for tourism will be introduced for three specific countries. The list of nationalities eligible for a Visa on Arrival has also been significantly curtailed, decreasing from 31 to just four. These changes will come into effect 15 days following their publication in the Royal Gazette. Foreigners currently in Thailand under existing exemptions may stay until their permitted period expires.