News on Trip: Thailand Extends Stay Visa to 90 Days Now
Thailand is changing its visa rules right now. This is important News on Trip for every traveler. The Thai Cabinet approved updated visa measures on July 14, 2026 . The changes will take effect 15 days after publication in the Royal Gazette . However, you can still stay for up to 90 days under the existing system. This News on Trip article explains the new rules and how to get a 90-day stay. This guide covers the new visa exemption and extension options. It also explains the new Thailand Digital Arrival Card. Let us explore these Thailand travel updates.
The New Visa Exemption Rules
The Thai Cabinet approved a major revision to visa policies . This is a significant News on Trip development. The changes aim to prevent misuse of visa privileges.
60-Day Exemption Removed
Thailand will withdraw the 60-day visa exemption for 93 countries . This was introduced in July 2024. The new system follows a “one country, one entitlement” principle .
New 30-Day Visa Exemption
Citizens of 59 countries will now get 30-day visa-free entry . This is for tourism purposes only. Six new countries are added to this list. India, Croatia, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Malta, and Maldives are now included .
15-Day Exemption and Visa on Arrival
Mauritius and Seychelles get a 15-day visa exemption . Visa on Arrival is available for Azerbaijan, Belarus, and Serbia . India’s Visa on Arrival will be removed to avoid overlapping privileges .
Grandfather Clause for Existing Travelers
If you entered Thailand before the new rules take effect, you are safe . You can stay for the full period allowed under the previous regulations . This is good News on Trip for current travelers.
How to Get a 90-Day Stay in Thailand
You can still stay for 90 days in Thailand. The Tourist Visa (TR) allows a 60-day stay . This can be extended for another 30 days . This gives you a total of 90 days .
The Tourist Visa Extension Process
Extension is possible at any Thai immigration office . The fee is 1,900 THB (~$54 USD) . You need your passport and two passport photos . You also need a copy of the TM30 . The process can take 90 minutes to half a day .
The Multi-Entry Tourist Visa Option
The Multi-Entry Tourist Visa (METV) is valid for 6 months . You can stay for 60 days per visit . Each stay can be extended to 90 days . You can re-enter as many times as you want . This is excellent News on Trip for frequent visitors.
Important Note on the New Rules
The new 30-day exemption does not stop you from getting a Tourist Visa. You can still apply for a Tourist Visa before you travel. This is a key Travel Safety Tip for longer stays.
Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC)
The TDAC system is getting an upgrade. This is an important Travel Update for all visitors.
TDAC Requirements
You must file the free TDAC online within 72 hours of arrival . This is a mandatory requirement for most travelers. The system will now improve background screening . It will monitor entry and exit of foreign nationals .
Why TDAC Is Important
The TDAC helps with risk assessment . It ensures entry privileges are used properly . This is part of Thailand’s security measures. Travel Safety Tips include completing this form on time.
Long-Term Stay Options in Thailand
If you need more than 90 days, Thailand has other options. These are excellent Adventure Travel Ideas for digital nomads.
Destination Thailand Visa (DTV)
The DTV allows 180 days per entry . It is valid for 3 to 6 months . The fee is 10,000 THB (~$280 USD) . You need 500,000 THB (~$14,000 USD) in proof of funds . This is a great Global Travel option.
Long-Term Resident (LTR) Visa
The LTR visa is for wealthy or talented foreigners . It offers a 10-year visa with multiple entries . You can work in Thailand under this visa . It offers fast track at airports . This is excellent World Travel news for professionals.
Other Long-Term Visa Options
The Non-Immigrant O visa is for marriage to a Thai national . The Non-Immigrant B is for work purposes. The Non-Immigrant O-A is for retirement (50+ years) . Each has specific financial requirements. Travel Updates on these visas are available online.
Avoiding Visa Overstay
Overstaying your visa is a serious offense. This is a crucial Travel Safety Tip.
Overstay Fines
Each day of overstay costs 500 THB . The fine is capped at 20,000 THB for short overstays . Overstays of more than 90 days trigger a 1-year ban . Overstays of more than 5 years trigger a 10-year ban .
Why You Should Not Overstay
Overstaying can lead to detention . It can also lead to deportation . It makes future travel to Thailand difficult. This is essential News on Trip for all travelers.
Travel Safety Tips for Thailand
These Travel Safety Tips will help you navigate the new rules.
Check Your Entry Conditions
Always check the entry conditions for your nationality. These can change without much notice. Use official Thai government websites for information. Travel Updates are posted on these sites.
Apply for the Right Visa
Apply for the correct visa for your stay. A Tourist Visa is best for 60-90 days . The DTV or LTR visas are for longer stays. Do not rely on visa runs . This is a key Travel Safety Tip.
Complete the TDAC
Do not forget to complete the TDAC. Do this within 72 hours of arrival . This will save you time at immigration.
FAQ
Q1: Can I still stay 90 days in Thailand?
Yes, you can get a 90-day stay with a Tourist Visa and a 30-day extension.
Q2: What is the new visa exemption period?
The new visa exemption is for 30 days, replacing the previous 60-day exemption.
Q3: Which countries are affected by the new rules?
The 60-day exemption is removed for 93 countries. A 30-day exemption applies to 59 countries.
Q4: When do the new rules take effect?
The rules take effect 15 days after publication in the Royal Gazette.
Q5: What is the TDAC?
The Thailand Digital Arrival Card is an online form required within 72 hours of arrival.
Q6: Can I still get a Tourist Visa?
Yes, the Tourist Visa (TR) is still available. It allows a 60-day stay that can be extended to 90 days.
Conclusion
Thailand has approved new visa rules for 2026. The 60-day exemption will be replaced by a 30-day exemption. This applies to 59 countries, including India and six new additions. However, you can still get a 90-day stay with a Tourist Visa and extension. The TDAC system will improve security screening. This News on Trip has covered all the essential changes. Travel Updates will keep you informed of further changes. Travel Safety Tips will ensure a smooth journey. Global Travel to Thailand is still accessible and enjoyable. Your Thai adventure is ready and waiting.
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