Planning a Thailand trip? New visa rules allow longer stays and easier entry

Thailand has introduced new visa rules that allow longer stays and make entry easier for international travellers. Ms. Airin Phanrit, Deputy Spokesperson for the Prime Minister’s Office, said the Cabinet has recognised visa policy guidelines proposed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The steps form part of a wider plan to support tourism and economic recovery while simplifying travel procedures.

The changes confirm measures that authorities have already rolled out in 2025. These include expanded visa-free access, new visa categories and a digital arrival system.

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Longer visa-free stays for many travellers
Under the updated visa exemption scheme, passport holders from 93 countries and territories can enter Thailand without a visa for tourism, work or short-term business. They can stay for up to 60 days as a special case.

In addition, passport holders from 31 countries and territories can apply for a Visa on Arrival at immigration checkpoints. Authorities are also considering adding eight more countries to this list in the next phase.

These changes widen access for short-term visitors and reduce the need for advance visa applications.

New visa options for remote workers and students
Thailand has introduced the Destination Thailand Visa, which allows foreigners to stay in the country for tourism and remote work under a special category. This visa targets travellers who want to work online while living in Thailand for an extended period.

The government has also launched a new Non-Immigrant ED Plus visa. This category allows foreigners to stay in Thailand for study or for combined study-and-work purposes under specific provisions.

At the same time, authorities are reviewing and adjusting criteria for long-stay visas, especially for elderly people who plan to retire in Thailand.

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Fewer visa categories, simpler process
As part of structural reforms, the government reduced the number of Non-Immigrant visa codes from 17 to 7. The change took effect on August 31, 2025.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs updated the electronic visa system to reflect the new structure. It informed relevant agencies and publicised the changes through official channels to ensure smoother implementation.

From January 1, 2025, travellers can apply for an electronic visa through all 94 Thai embassies and consulates-general worldwide via the official portal.

Digital arrival system in place
For long-term improvements, the Immigration Bureau developed the TM.6 online system, known as the Thailand Digital Arrival Card. This system replaced the earlier Electronic Travel Authorization system and has been in use since May 1, 2025.

The digital arrival card allows travellers to complete required arrival information online, reducing paperwork at checkpoints and improving processing at entry points.

Through these measures, the government aims to simplify visa procedures, expand visa-free and visa-on-arrival access, support remote workers and students and improve arrival systems for visitors planning a trip to Thailand.