Visa exemption changes and proposed restorations
Where it stands now
Thailand's visa framework, effective September 15, 2026, replaced the 60-day visa exemption with 30-day and 15-day categories, and visa-exempt entry is now for tourism only, requiring a Non-Immigrant B visa or Destination Thailand Visa for work. The Tourism Minister is proposing to restore 15-day visa-on-arrival for Mexico, Colombia, and Uzbekistan, with a hearing scheduled for November 9, 2026.
How it developed
Newest first
Thailand seeks to restore visa-free entry for three nations
Thailand is losing tourists to Vietnam after a September visa overhaul removed entry privileges for Mexico, Colombia, and Uzbekistan. Tourism Minister Surasak is proposing to restore 15-day visa-on-arrival for these markets, but a hearing is not scheduled until 9 November. The changes have caused flight cancellations and a 4.12% drop in foreign arrivals.
Visa exemption work ban starts Sept 15
From September 15, visa-exempt entry to Thailand covers tourism only; any work-related activity requires a Non-Immigrant B visa or Destination Thailand Visa. Entries before Sept 15 still follow old rules. Remote workers should consider the DTV.
New visa exemption rules from 15 September 2026
Thailand's new visa framework takes effect on 15 September 2026, replacing the 60-day visa exemption with 30-day (for 60 countries/territories) and 15-day (for Seychelles and Mauritius) categories. Visa on Arrival eligibility is also updated for Azerbaijan, Belarus and Serbia.
Cabinet approves revised 60-day visa-free policy for select countries
The Cabinet approved a revised 60-day visa-free measure on 14 July 2026, adjusting entry conditions per country groups to balance tourism facilitation and security. The Tourism Ministry also prepares to implement a tourism fee for foreign visitors.