Thailand Ends 60-Day Visa Exemption for 93 Countries, New 30-Day Rule Effective September 15th

The Pattaya News - Real. Unbiased. Impactful. In the moment. BANGKOK: Thailand’s official Royal Gazette published a set of Ministry of Interior announcements late on the night of August 31st, 2026, formally ending the special 60-day visa exemption that had applied to 93 countries and territories since mid-2024. The new rules take effect on September 15th, 2026. The notices appear in Volume 143, Special Issue […] The Pattaya News - Real. Unbiased. Impactful. In the moment. Thailand's government has formally announced through the Royal Gazette, late on the night of August 31st, 2026, the end of the special 60-day visa exemption that had been in place for 93 countries and territories since mid-2024. The new rules will take effect on September 15th, 2026. This measure is understood to be part of a review of the country's travel policies by the government, taking into account the impact on tourist numbers and the economy. Travelers from many nationalities who were previously able to stay in Thailand for 60 days will now be limited to a 30-day stay. This change is expected to affect travelers planning longer stays, as well as potentially impacting Thailand's tourism industry and real estate market. The Thai government likely aims to maximize economic benefits by managing the length of stay for tourists and attracting more short-term, high-frequency visitors. There is also speculation that the government is re-evaluating the economic ripple effects of long-term stays, such as property purchases and long-term rentals by foreign residents. Future developments will be closely watched to see how this policy change affects the number of foreign tourists visiting Thailand and its overall economic impact.