Is the 60-Day Visa-Free Entry Still Available for My Nationality in 2026?
Thailand previously offered a generous 60-day visa-free entry to citizens of 93 countries. However, this policy changed in 2026.
If you’re planning to visit or relocate to Chiang Mai and want to know whether you can still enter Thailand without a visa for 60 days, here’s the current situation.
What Happened in 2026?
On 19 May 2026, the Thai Cabinet approved the termination of the 60-day visa-free scheme for most nationalities.
The government decided to end the policy due to concerns over overstays, national security, and to encourage travelers to apply for proper visas through the official e-Visa system.
As a result, the blanket 60-day visa-free entry that many people relied on was largely discontinued.
Current Status (as of July 2026)
- The 60-day visa-free entry has been reduced to 30 days for most eligible countries.
- The number of countries qualifying for visa exemption was also reduced.
- Visa on Arrival is now only available to a very limited number of nationalities.
- Some countries still enjoy longer visa-free periods through bilateral agreements, but this is no longer the standard for most travelers.
Important: Whether you can enter visa-free, and for how many days, now depends on your nationality.
How to Check Your Visa-Free Allowance
To find out the current rules for your nationality, you should:
- Visit the official Thai e-Visa website: thaievisa.go.th
- Check the website of the nearest Thai Embassy or Consulate
- Use reliable sources such as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs
It’s always best to verify before booking your flight, as rules can vary and are subject to change.
What Should You Do If You No Longer Qualify for 60 Days?
If your nationality only gets 30 days visa-free (or none at all), here are your main options:
| Option | Allowed Stay | Best For | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Visa Exemption (if eligible) | 30 days | Short trips | Suitable for quick visits |
| Tourist Visa (TR) | 60 days (extendable) | Longer visits | Good middle-ground option |
| Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) | 180 days per entry | Digital nomads & longer stays | Best for flexible long stays |
| Non-Immigrant Visas | 1 year (renewable) | Work, retirement, study, family | Best for long-term relocation |
Practical Advice
- Do not assume you still get 60 days visa-free. Always check your specific nationality.
- If you plan to stay longer than 30 days, it is safer to apply for a Tourist Visa in advance.
- For stays of 3 months or more, consider the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV), which offers more flexibility.
- Overstaying, even by a few days, can result in fines and complications for future visits.
Final Summary
The 60-day visa-free entry that was widely available in previous years has been significantly reduced in 2026. Most travelers now only receive 30 days visa-free (if their nationality qualifies), and relying on visa-free entry for longer stays is no longer a safe strategy.
If you’re planning to spend more time in Chiang Mai or Thailand, it is recommended to apply for a proper visa rather than depending on visa-free entry.
Sources:
- Thai Cabinet Decision – 19 May 2026
- Ministry of Foreign Affairs – Visa Policy Update 2026
- Thai Immigration Bureau Official Guidelines
- Siam Legal – Thailand Visa Changes 2026
