Thailand extends visa-free stay for Indians to 60 days

Thailand has extended visa-free entry for Indian passport holders to 60 days, with an option of a further 30-day extension, in a move aimed at boosting tourism and easing travel.

The announcement upgrades Indian travellers from the earlier 30-day visa-on-arrival scheme and places them under Thailand’s “Form 60” visa-exemption list, which now covers 93 nationalities.

As per reports, Airin Phanrit, Deputy Spokesperson for the Prime Minister’s Office, said the decision forms part of broader measures to streamline visa rules and enhance the country’s appeal as a global travel and business hub.

Indian travel to Thailand has seen a strong rebound after the pandemic, with visitor numbers crossing two million in 2025, according to official figures.

Under the revised rules, Indian nationals can enter Thailand without obtaining a prior visa for tourism, short-term business or related purposes and stay for up to 60 days. Travellers are required to carry proof of accommodation for the duration of their stay, a confirmed return ticket and a completed Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC), which must be filled out three days prior to travel.

Thai authorities have also cautioned against misuse of extended stays even as they promote new visa options for remote workers and students.

Last year, Thailand introduced the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV), allowing foreign nationals to stay in the country for tourism and remote work. A new Non-Immigrant ED Plus visa has also been launched to enable foreigners to pursue study or combined study-and-work programmes.

As part of wider reforms implemented through 2025, Thailand has reduced its Non-Immigrant visa categories from 17 to seven and expanded its electronic visa services to all embassies and consulates worldwide. The TDAC online arrival system, introduced on May 1, 2025, is now mandatory for all arrivals.

Authorities are also considering adding eight more countries to the Visa on Arrival list and reviewing long-stay visa criteria, particularly for retirees, as part of ongoing efforts to simplify procedures and expand access.