Thailand removes 21 nationalities from visa-free entry from September 15, 2026

What is changing

Thailand's visa exemption scheme is being reformed on September 15, 2026. The current system allows citizens of 93 countries and territories to enter without a visa for stays up to 60 days. From September 15, this will change to 60 countries with stays of up to 30 days.

However, 21 nationalities currently eligible for visa-free entry will lose this privilege entirely and must now obtain a visa. Affected countries include Mexico, Colombia, Morocco, Sri Lanka, Monaco, Mauritius, Uruguay and others. Some countries with separate bilateral agreements - including China, Hong Kong, Laos, Russia and Vietnam - will retain visa-free access under those arrangements.

Your options if affected

Travellers from the 21 removed countries have several visa options:

• Thai e-Visa: Available online through thaievisa.go.th since January 2025. You create an account, complete the application, upload documents, pay fees and receive approval by email.
• TR Tourist Visa (single-entry): Valid for three months from issue, allows stays up to 60 days. A 30-day extension may be requested from Thai immigration.
• Multiple-Entry Tourist Visa (METV): Valid for six months, allows up to 60 days per entry.

Requirements, fees and processing times vary by location and Thai embassy or consulate.

Key dates and requirements

The reform takes effect September 15, 2026. Travellers entering Thailand by September 14, 2026 retain the current 60-day visa-free stay granted at arrival. Only entries from September 15 onwards require a visa.

Regardless of visa status, all non-Thai nationals must complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) before entry.