Thailand Scraps 60-Day Tourist Visa Thailand Rule for Indians, Introduces Visa on Arrival

Thailand has been a long-time top destination for Indian tourists, offering breathtaking beaches, world-famous street food, ancient temples and affordable luxury, all of this just a few hours away. For the past few years, Indian tourists have enjoyed 60-day visa-free entry that made spontaneous trips, extended vacations and even workations effortlessly accessible. But as of May 2026, that open-door policy has officially been closed. 

What Is Thailand’s New Visa Policy For Indians?

The Thai cabinet has officially scrapped the 60-day visa-free entry for Indian citizens and has reverted to the old visa-on-arrival policy as of the 19th of May, 2026. This major policy reversal means that Indian travellers must now pay visa fees at the airport.

The policy revision is to create a better-organised immigration system. The new structure will help improve border management, strengthen security checks and ensure better monitoring of visitors who enter Thailand. 

The old policy that was effective from the 15th of July, 2025, stated that Indian passport holders can enjoy up to 60 days in Thailand without a visa. The 60-day stay was also extendable by another 30 days at any local Thai immigration office. 

Indian travellers will also face reduced flexibility, as the visa-on-arrival allows a maximum of a 15-day stay. Tourists with an Indian passport must submit additional documents and properly apply for a tourist visa before they enter the country. 

Understanding Thailand's Visa On Arrival

What Are The Eligibility Criteria For Indian Tourists?

There are several new criteria that Indian travellers must fulfil if they want to visit Thailand. 

Passport Validity Requirements

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of arrival. Your passport needs to have at least one blank page for the immigration stamp from the Thai airport authorities. You must follow these instructions carefully. 

Who Qualifies for a Visa on Arrival from India

The VOA category includes 4 countries: India, Azerbaijan, Belarus and Serbia. All Indian citizens who have a regular passport and are visiting Thailand for vacations and short-term holidays qualify for a visa-on-arrival (VOA). 

Travellers Who May Still Need a Pre-Approved Visa

If you are planning a stay that is more than 15 days, you must apply for a Thailand e-visa or tourist visa before you leave for your trip. Those who intend to work in Thailand, even if they work remotely, need proper work documentation.

Requirements for Minors and Family Travel

Families that are travelling with children need the same documentation as adults, which includes the following:

• A valid passport 

• Recent passport photo 

• Copy of their return ticket

• Proof of accommodation

• Thailand Digital Arrival Card

• A valid travel health insurance

What Is The Step-By-Step Process At The Port Of Entry?

The reversal of the 60-day Thai visa policy requires Indian tourists to follow the normal process for a VOA. Here is the step-by-step process you must follow now: 

1. Step 1: Get Your Visa on Arrival at Thai Airports: After landing, follow the signs to the separate "Visa on Arrival" counter. Thailand has designated immigration checkpoints that will issue your VOA.

2. Step 2: Filling Out the VOA Application Form: The VOA application form is available at the counter. Fill it out completely before submitting to the immigration officer and paying the fees.

3. Step 3: Immigration Queue, Biometrics and Processing Time: During peak travel season, VOA queues can stretch to 1-2 hours. The officer reviews documents, processes the application and returns the passport with a 15-day entry stamp.

What Happens If Your Visa on Arrival Is Rejected

Missing even one required document can result in the denial of entry. If rejected, travellers must either obtain a pre-approved visa before travel or may be forced to return to India. Rejected travellers should not attempt to enter through land borders, as monitoring is stricter.

How Does This New Rule Affect Travel Insurance?

Thailand’s new 15-day VOA policy makes travel insurance mandatory for families and a critical safeguard for all Indian travellers. Not having valid health insurance when you are travelling can not only lead to rejection of your visa but also create stress during medical emergencies when abroad and even lead to denial of hospitalisation in a foreign country. 

Here comes Niva Bupa’s travel insurance, an inclusive plan that offers comprehensive coverage, flexibility and global support that you will need when travelling to Thailand. Niva Bupa’s plan is the smartest choice for Indian travellers navigating Thailand’s strict visa requirements.

Also Read : Thailand Tourist Visa for Indians: Requirements, Fees & How to Apply

Conclusion

Thailand’s return to the visa-on-arrival policy marks a significant shift for Indian tourists, replacing the generous 60-day visa-free entry with a stricter 15-day limit and adequate payment. This change demands more careful planning and making sure you have all relevant documentation to avoid getting your visa request rejected.

However, Thailand still remains one of the most accessible and welcoming country destinations for Indian tourists. So, don't let the stricter rules deter you from exploring its vibrant beaches, historic temples and rich culture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I verify my current Thailand visa requirements?

You will need to verify your documentation with the official Thai immigration sources or the Thai Embassy before travelling. Requirements may change in the future, so keep an eye out.

Is the new policy retroactive to travellers already in Thailand?

No, the rule is not retroactive, which means that if you crossed the border before the implementation date of the policy, it will not be applicable for you.

Can I extend my 15-day visa on arrival in Thailand?

Yes, you can extend your stay by going to the nearest Thai immigration office and registering for a visa. You might need to pay.