Thailand to Revise Visa Regulations: UK and 90 Other Nations Affected

Mon Jun 01 2026 17:54:57 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Thailand's government has announced changes to visa regulations, reducing the visa-free stay for citizens from over 90 countries, including the UK. The changes are aimed at enhancing national security and streamlining visa processes.

Thailand is set to revoke its current visa exemption policy for over 90 countries, including the UK, reducing the allowed stay to 30 days or less and introducing a country-specific visa scheme. The government cites security concerns and the need for a clearer visa framework as reasons for these changes. The new policies come in response to a rise in foreign crime in the country and are expected to take effect shortly, following publication in the Royal Gazette.

UK citizens are among dozens of nationalities who will soon have to apply for a visa if they wish to stay in Thailand for more than 30 days.

Tourists from 93 countries have been able to visit without needing a visa for 60 days since July 2024, as part of a government effort to boost the economy following the Covid pandemic.

However, the Thai government approved plans to revoke this exemption, which will now see travelers' stay durations determined on a country-by-country basis. This decision is attributed to security concerns and a confusing visa scheme.

High-profile arrests of foreigners in Thailand have raised alarms, including cases linked to drugs and sex trafficking. Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul emphasized that the policy needs revising to align with current economic and national security needs.

Citizens from countries such as Australia, China, France, Germany, India, Italy, Spain, and the US will also be affected. The Thai foreign ministry indicated that many of these nations will require visas for stays exceeding 30 days, with specific exemptions depending on reciprocal agreements.

The new regulations will go into effect 15 days after their announcement in the Royal Gazette, aiming to eliminate confusion around multiple visa exemptions for the same country.

Tourism is a pivotal aspect of Thailand's economy, which had experienced nearly 40 million visitors in 2019. Although numbers fell sharply during the pandemic, recent figures show a resurgence, with nearly 12 million foreign visitors reported this year.

Recent events, including the arrest of UK citizens on drug smuggling charges and raids on unlicensed international schools, have underscored the need for revisited visa regulations in the country.