Thailand sets 30-day, tourism-only visa exemption from 15 September 2026
From 15 September 2026, British citizen passport holders using Thailand’s visa exemption scheme can stay for up to 30 days for tourism only. Business travellers must obtain an appropriate visa before travelling.
- In effect from
- 15 Sept 2026
- Published
- 19 Sept 2026
Visa-exempt entry will not cover conferences, meetings or other business activities. Tourism entries under the scheme are normally limited to two per calendar year; travellers who have already used both entries may need a visa before travelling.
Travellers who entered before 15 September 2026 will usually retain the stay granted on arrival. Longer stays require an appropriate visa before travel or, where eligible, an extension through Thai immigration.
Countries affected
Related updates
ESTA holders should check authorisation against new selfie requirement
US Customs and Border Protection now requires a selfie photograph for ESTA. Travellers whose ESTA does not contain the required photograph may need to apply for a new authorisation.
Check existing ESTA authorisations for the new selfie requirement
US Customs and Border Protection now requires a selfie photograph for ESTA. Travellers whose authorisation does not contain the required photograph may need to apply for a new ESTA.