Thailand Imposes New Visa Regulations for 90+ Countries, Including the UK

Mon Jun 01 2026 08:06:38 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

In a bid to reform its entry policies, Thailand has announced a significant reduction in the visa-free stay period for citizens from over 90 countries, including the UK. The new regulations will require tourists to apply for a visa for stays exceeding 30 days, highlighting security concerns and a need for clarity in visa processes.

Thailand has revised its visa exemption policy, limiting the stay for citizens from more than 90 nations, including the UK, to 30 days. Previously, tourists could stay for 60 days without a visa, aimed at boosting the economy post-COVID-19. The government cites security reasons and the need for clearer guidelines as justifications for the change. The new regulations will take effect following publication in the Royal Gazette.

UK citizens are among dozens of nationalities who will soon have to apply for a visa if they wish to stay in Thailand for more than 30 days.

Tourists from 93 countries have been able to visit without needing a visa for 60 days since July 2024, as part of a government effort to boost the economy following the Covid pandemic.

But the Thai government approved plans on Tuesday to revoke this exemption, with how long travelers can stay now being determined on a country-by-country basis. Authorities cited security concerns and a confusing visa scheme among reasons for the change.

The recent surge in high-profile arrests of foreigners in Thailand, including cases related to drugs and sex trafficking, has also contributed to the decision.

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul emphasized that the policy needed revision to better align with current economic and security conditions. Nationals who previously enjoyed the 60-day exemption include citizens from Australia, China, France, Germany, India, Italy, Spain, and the US.

Moving forward, many of these nationalities will have to apply for a visa for stays longer than 30 days. Some will have differing exemption periods based on reciprocal agreements with individual countries.

The new visa system will come into effect 15 days after it is published in the Royal Gazette, where all legal and regulatory changes are announced.

The Thai foreign ministry has stated that the goal is to reduce the instances of overlapping visa exemptions that have caused confusion among foreign visitors.

Tourism is a vital part of Thailand's economy, with the country being one of Asia's top holiday destinations. The nation welcomed nearly 40 million visitors in 2019, but that number plummeted during the pandemic. Recent figures indicate that nearly 12 million visitors have traveled to Thailand this year.

Facing increased concerns over crime incidents involving foreign nationals, including arrests for drug offenses and illegal employment, the government appears to be taking a tougher stance on immigration policies.