Quick Answer

Most Western tourists do not need a visa in advance. Citizens of the US, UK, EU and 60 countries and territories in total can enter Thailand visa-exempt for tourism, up to 30 days as of 15 September 2026, down from the 60-day exemption that applied before that date. A one-time extension of up to 30 more days can be requested at a Thai immigration office (around 1,900 THB). Verify your own nationality’s current allowance on the official Thai e-Visa portal before you book, and have a passport valid for your stay, proof of onward travel and the TDAC arrival card ready.

Read the full guide: Thailand Visa & Entry Requirements (2026)

How long can you stay in Thailand without a visa?

As of September 2026, visa-exempt tourists from the 60 eligible countries and territories can stay up to 30 days. Thailand’s Ministry of Interior announcements, published in the Royal Gazette on 31 August 2026, replaced the previous 60-day exemption (in place since July 2024) with this 30-day allowance from 15 September 2026; travelers admitted under the 60-day rule before that date keep the stay they were granted. Confirm your own nationality’s current allowance on the Thai e-Visa portal before your trip. A visa-exempt stay can be extended once by up to 30 more days at a Thai immigration office, for a fee of around 1,900 THB.

What is the TDAC and is it mandatory for Thailand?

The TDAC (Thailand Digital Arrival Card) is a free online form every foreign national must submit before entering Thailand by air, land or sea (mandatory since 1 May 2025, when it replaced the old paper TM6 card). Complete it within 72 hours before arrival at tdac.immigration.go.th, one submission per traveler including children and infants. It is not a visa and does not extend how long you’re allowed to stay; it simply registers your arrival, so do it in the days before you fly.