Thailand Revises Visa-Free Entry Rules for Tourists
Thailand has updated its entry requirements for visitors, significantly shortening the visa-free stay period for citizens of several countries. Previously, many nationalities enjoyed a 60-day visa-free allowance for tourism. However, a recent notice published in the Royal Gazette has reduced this period to 30 days for travelers from the United States, Canada, South Africa, the United Kingdom, and Australia. This change, effective September 15, 2026, marks a shift from the broader entry rules that were in place.
New Visa-Free Stays for Key Countries
The Thai Ministry of Interior issued notices detailing the revised entry rules, which were published in the Royal Gazette on August 31, 2026. These new regulations specifically impact tourism stays. Passport holders from 60 countries and territories, including the U.S. and Canada, can now enter Thailand visa-free for a maximum of 30 days. This also applies to travelers from South Africa, the United Kingdom, and Australia, who previously benefited from a 60-day visa-free period.
Adjustments for Mauritius and Morocco
Beyond the 30-day visa-free category, Thailand has also adjusted entry rules for other nations. Travelers from Mauritius and Seychelles are now limited to a 15-day visa-free stay. Furthermore, Morocco has lost its visa-free access entirely and must now apply for a visa before traveling to Thailand. Moroccan citizens are required to secure an e-Visa through the official platform before their departure.
Thailand’s Shifting Entry Framework
This recent revision follows an expansion of visa-free stays to 60 days that took place in 2024. The 2026 rollback reverses that more generous policy. The previous system included 93 countries and territories. The current, narrower framework divides visitors into distinct categories. Sixty countries and territories remain in the 30-day visa-free lane. Mauritius and Seychelles are in the 15-day lane. Twenty-one countries now require a visa obtained in advance.
Visa-on-Arrival Remains for Select Nations
While many entry rules have been tightened, Thailand has maintained its visa-on-arrival option for certain countries. Travelers from Azerbaijan, Belarus, and Serbia continue to be eligible for a visa on arrival. This separate track for entry remains in place, offering an alternative for citizens of these specific nations. The Department of Consular Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, has confirmed these updated arrangements for tourism.
| Country | New Rule | Previous Rule |
|---|---|---|
| United States | 30 days visa-free (tourism) | 60 days |
| Canada | 30 days visa-free (tourism) | 60 days |
| South Africa | 30 days visa-free (tourism) | 60 days |
| United Kingdom | 30 days visa-free (tourism) | 60 days |
| Australia | 30 days visa-free (tourism) | 60 days |
| Mauritius | 15 days visa-free | 60 days |
| Morocco | Visa required before travel | Visa-free |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which countries now have a shorter visa-free stay in Thailand?
Citizens from the United States, Canada, South Africa, the United Kingdom, and Australia now have a 30-day visa-free stay, down from 60 days.
What are the new rules for travelers from Mauritius and Seychelles?
Travelers from Mauritius and Seychelles are now limited to a 15-day visa-free stay in Thailand.
Do Moroccan citizens still get visa-free entry to Thailand?
No, Moroccan citizens must now apply for and obtain an e-Visa before traveling to Thailand.
Are there any countries that can still get a visa on arrival?
Yes, travelers from Azerbaijan, Belarus, and Serbia are still eligible for a visa on arrival.
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