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 following selfie requirement
US Customs and Border Protection now requires a selfie photograph for ESTA. Travellers whose ESTA lacks the required photograph may need to submit a new application.
Thailand sets 30-day visa-exempt tourist stays from 15 September 2026
From 15 September 2026, British citizens entering Thailand under the visa exemption scheme can stay for up to 30 days for tourism. Travellers entering before that date will usually retain the period granted on arrival.