Thailand scraps 60-day free visa policy; Indian travellers now require VoA
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The speculation comes amid Thailand’s ongoing review of its tourism and immigration policies for foreign visitors. This also shows the government now prioritising “quality” over volume tourism.
As per the recent reports, Thailand has removed India from its visa-free entry list, ending the 60-day visa-free stay for Indian travellers. According to these claims, Indians may now be required to opt for Visa on Arrival (VoA) instead.
The country has cancelled its widely used 60-day visa-free scheme for all 93 countries and territories, including India, as part of a broader effort to streamline entry categories and shortens stay durations.
Importantly, as per the sources, Thailand will start charging soon for Indian travellers but awaiting an official announcement. Before the official announcement, visa exemption will continue.
When announced, Indians can apply VOA fees 2000 THB or Pre visa 3000 INR.
The revised structure was approved by Thailand’s Cabinet on May 19, 2026, according to the Department of Consular Affairs under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The speculation comes amid Thailand’s ongoing review of its tourism and immigration policies for foreign visitors. This also shows the government now prioritising “quality” over volume tourism.
Thailand had earlier extended 60-day visa-free entry for Indian passport holders to boost tourism arrivals and strengthen travel ties with India, one of its key source markets.
As per the new structure, the country will now allow only one visa exemption category per nation or territory, while scrapping the 60-day visa-free scheme altogether for all eligible countries. Additionally, Thailand plans narrow down its Visa on Arrival (VOA) facility from 31 countries to just four.
