OVER one million tourists visit Thailand every year – especially in the autumn, winter thanks to its sunny climate.
But for anyone heading there soon, there’s bad news as the amount of time you can stay is being slashed in half.
Since July 2024, the country allowed tourists from 93 countries – including the UK – to stay in the country for 60 days without a visa.
But in a matter of weeks, the allowance is being cut in half.
Starting September 15, 2026, nationals of 60 countries and territories, including the UK will be allowed to stay visa-free for up to 30 days.
According to officials, the list was revised to “reflect current circumstances, taking into account national security and economic considerations as well as the promotion of tourism”.
Tourists can visit still visit 30 days visa-free for tourism, business engagements, and urgent or ad-hoc work.
Advice on the GOV.UK has a warning for anyone who stays in Thailand longer than the given period – or if you stay without a visa.
It reads: “If you overstay the period of your visa, you will get a fine of 500 Thai baht a day up to a maximum of 20,000 baht. You risk being:
- held in detention
- deported at your own expense
- banned from re-entering Thailand for up to 10 years
“Conditions in detention centres can be harsh.”
Other entry requirements are that your passport has an expiry of at least six months after the date you arrive and have at least one blank page for stamping.
Travellers also need to complete a digital card at least three days before arrival.
