Thailand has revoked the temporary 60-day visa-free entry granted to more than 90 countries, including India, reverting to country-specific visa terms as part of a security-driven policy overhaul. Announced on May 19 via the government’s X account, the move aims to tighten security screening, curb overstays and tackle transnational crimes such as drug offences and sex trafficking. The Visa Policy Committee will review each country individually and set new durations, with most nationals expected to receive up to 30 days and some possibly limited to 15 days.
Thai officials said the decision balances national security, tourism interests, reciprocity and the convenience of the E-Visa system. Travellers may still apply for extensions, but renewals will no longer be automatic and will depend on immigration officers’ discretion. For Indian passport holders, the change likely restores the earlier 30-day visa-free arrangement that existed before the July 2024 expansion. Tourists are advised to check official updates before booking, as the cabinet will publish a country-by-country breakdown of the revised rules.
