The Thai cabinet approved on July 14, 2026, a policy maintaining visa-free entry for Indian passport holders but reducing their maximum stay from 60 days to 30 days under the visa-exemption scheme. This change takes effect in July 2026 and aims to align with Indian tourists’ travel patterns while continuing to support the national tourism sector.
Prior to this adjustment, Indian visitors could remain in Thailand for up to 60 days without a visa. A May 2026 government proposal had suggested cutting the number of visa-exempt countries from 93 to 54 and enforcing a 30-day stay limit on those eligible.
This broader policy was not implemented yet, but uncertainty around it contributed to a decline in arrivals from Indian tourists, a key market for Thailand.
Cabinet Approval and Official Statements
Tourism Minister Surasak Phancharoenworakul explained that the cabinet’s approval of a 30-day visa-free entry period reflects the travel behavior of Indian tourists, who are a significant segment of Thailand’s tourism industry. He stated, “The cabinet therefore approved a 30-day visa-free entry to align with the travel behavior of Indian tourists, who represent a large market for Thailand.” He also noted that the government may review the policy if any issues arise.
Deputy Government Spokesperson Ploytalay
Laksameesangchan announced that the 30-day visa-free entry policy also extends to travelers from Croatia, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Malta, and the Maldives. This expansion raises the total number of eligible countries and territories to 60, including all 27 European Union member states. Ploytalay highlighted that the revised visa rules support Thailand’s ongoing pursuit of Schengen visa exemptions for Thai passport holders.
Visa Policy Context and Enforcement Measures
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul’s administration is enforcing stricter oversight to prevent misuse of visa-free entry by foreign nationals reportedly engaging in illegal activities. The government also addresses domestic concerns regarding foreigners working illegally or pursuing unauthorized activities under the visa-exemption program,
particularly in tourist regions.
Tourism Sector Impact and Statistics
India ranks as Thailand’s third-largest source of tourists in 2026, following China and Malaysia. Thailand earned nearly $50 billion from 33 million foreign visitors in 2025. From January to July 4, 2026, the country received over 16 million international tourists. The visa policy adjustments occur amid efforts to balance tourism growth with enforcing immigration regulations.
