Thailand Proposes 30-Day Cap on Visa-Free Stays for Indians

Yes, you heard that right- Thailand is planning to reduce the visa-free stay period for Indian tourists from 60 days to 30 days! This is a result of the growing concerns over misuse of the long-stay policy. This proposed change affects not only India but all 93 nationalities currently eligible for 60-day visa-free entry. This includes us, China, Japan, South Korea, the UK, Australia, and most of the EU countries. While the decision has been agreed upon in principle by the Thai Cabinet, yet no official implementation date has been announced as of today, May 20th, 2026.

At Cover Page Media, we bring you the latest updates from the world of tourism, let’s do a deep dive into this headline!

The 60-day visa-free access to Thailand that Indian citizens currently enjoy was a policy introduced just 2 months ago on February 13th, 2026, replacing the earlier only 15-day Visa on Arrival (VOA) that also required a THB 2,000 fee. 

The 60-day visa-free access upgrade significantly boosted Indian tourism, making Thailand one of the most accessible and affordable long-haul destinations ever. However, the government has now shifted its beliefs, saying the 60-day window is being exploited beyond its intended purpose. That of tourism and short-term business visits. 

Reasons Behind the Policy Shift In Thailand

Led by Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkaeow and Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong, the Thai government has flagged three major issues that has pushed for the rollback:

1. Illegal Employment: Foreign nationals entering as tourists but working full-time in sectors like teaching, hospitality, and digital services without any proper work or even permits.

2. Unauthorized Businesses: Operation of tour agencies, restaurants, and online ventures by foreigners who are bypassing Thailand’s Foreign Business Act.

3. Transnational Crime Transit: Use of Thailand as a transit hub for cyber-scam networks that are operating from neighboring countries like Myanmar and Cambodia.

The 60-day allowance, initially introduced in July 2024 in an effort to revive post-pandemic tourism, has attracted not only genuine tourists but also a huge influx of individuals using the period to establish illicit and illegal operations. The government argues that 30 days is sufficient for a typical holiday. And for those needing longer stays, they can apply for formal visas. 

What Impact This Has On Indian Travelers

While short-term Indian tourists (under 30 days) will see no impact, the change significantly affects:

• Slow travelers who are planning extended itineraries across places like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, and island-hopping routes.

• Digital nomads and remote workers who have increasingly used Thailand as a base for workations.

• Long-stay visitors combining tourism with family visits or even property management.

Now for Indians, under the current rules, can stay up to 90 days per visit (60 days visa-free + 30-day extension). If the policy does end up changing, the maximum stay would drop to 60 days (30 days on arrival + 30-day extension). 

Visa Extension Process and Requirements

Now even if the visa-free period is cut to 30 days, travelers can still easily apply for a 30-day extension at any Thai immigration office. This process requires:

• Passport valid for at least 6 months

• Completed TM.7 application form

• TM.30 form (filed by hotel or landlord within 24 hours of check-in)

• One 4cm x 6cm passport photo

• THB 1,900 (~₹4,700) in cash

Key offices are in:

• Bangkok: Chaeng Watthana Government Complex

• Chiang Mai: Promenada Mall immigration office

• Phuket: Phuket Town immigration office

The processing typically takes 2–4 hours. Pro-tip: Do not miss the TM.30 form, it is a common reason for rejection, especially with budget accommodations that may not file it. 

Alternative Long-Stay Options for Indians

For stays beyond 60 days, Indians should consider formal visa options:

• Tourist Visa (Single/Multiple Entry): Valid for 60 days, extendable to 90 days. Requires proof of funds and most importantly, the return ticket.

• Destination Thailand Visa (DTV): Designed for digital nomads, remote workers, and long-term visitors. Offers 180 days per entry with 5-year validity. This visa is unaffected by the proposed 30-day rule and is the ideal option for those planning repeated or extended stays.

The DTV is increasingly seen as a better long-term solution rather than relying on the visa-free entry policy, especially as other countries are introducing similar digital nomad visas.

Mandatory Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC)

This is most crucial: Regardless of visa changes, all travelers, including Indians, must complete the necessary Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) at least three days before departure. This was introduced in May 2025, and the TDAC replaces the old paper arrival/departure forms. This is mandatory for all foreign visitors. It is free to apply and can be completed online via the official Thai immigration portal.

NOTE: Failure to submit the TDAC may result in denied boardings or also entry delays. 

Current Status and Travel Advice

As of May 20th, 2026, the 60-day visa-free stay remains fully in effect for Indian passport holders. The proposed reduction to 30 days is still pending the final Cabinet approval and also implementation.

Be rest assured- travelers should:

• Book with confidence if traveling within the next 1–3 months.

• Stay updated via the official channels like the Royal Thai Embassy in India or even the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.

• Plan flexibility for longer trips and also consider budgeting for potential extension fees and immigration visits.

• Consider the DTV visa if planning remote work or stays exceeding 60 days, you’ll save a lot of mental stress.

Thailand welcomed a whopping 12.4 million foreign tourists between January 1st and May 10th, 2026, which actually is a 3.43% decline from the same period in 2025. While tourism continues to remain a cornerstone of the economy, the government is trying to balance openness with tighter immigration controls to ensure both sustainable and lawful travel.