PATTAYA, Thailand – Thailand’s Cabinet has approved a reduction in the visa-free stay for Indian visitors from 60 days to 30 days, aiming to better match typical travel patterns while helping revive arrivals from one of the country’s largest tourism markets. Tourism and Sports Minister Surasak Phancharoenworakul said the previous end of India’s 60-day visa exemption created confusion, forcing many Indian travellers to rely on visas on arrival and contributing to an almost 20% decline in arrivals. Under the new Cabinet decision, Indian passport holders will receive a 30-day visa exemption, replacing the previous 60-day arrangement. Authorities said the policy can be reviewed again if necessary.
The Cabinet also approved 15-day visa-free entry for visitors from Seychelles and Mauritius.
Responding to concerns over Taiwan’s visa-free entry for Thai travellers, which is currently due to expire on July 31, 2026, Surasak said no decision has yet been made on whether Taiwan will extend the scheme. He noted that visa-free arrangements granted unilaterally are determined by the issuing country, meaning Taiwan has the authority to continue, modify or end the policy.
