Thailand’s government reversed plans to end visa-free entry for Indian tourists, approving a new policy that allows Indian nationals to enter without a visa for up to 30 days starting July 2026, according to the Thai Cabinet.
Previously, Indian tourists were permitted to remain in Thailand visa-free for up to 60 days. The revised regulation halves this period but continues to offer visa exemption to align with typical Indian travel behavior.
The initial plan, approved in May 2026, aimed to reduce the number of countries eligible for visa-free entry from 93 to 54. Following the revision, India remains on the
list, and the overall number of countries and territories eligible for 30-day visa-free visits has been adjusted to 60.
The updated visa-free entry policy also added Croatia, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Malta, and the Maldives to the eligible list. These changes coincide with efforts by Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul’s administration to prevent misuse of visa waivers by foreigners involved in illegal activities while protecting domestic businesses from unfair competition.
Tourism Minister Surasak Phancharoenworakul said, “The Cabinet therefore approved a 30-day visa-free entry to align with the travel behaviour of Indian tourists, who represent a large market for Thailand.” He added that the
government could reassess the policy if further issues arise.
Thailand’s tourism sector generated nearly US$50 billion last year from 33 million foreign visitors. By July 4, 2026, more than 16 million international tourists had arrived in the country. Indian tourists are the third-largest visitor group after China and Malaysia.
