In a decisive move set to reshape travel between India and Thailand, the Thai government has extended its visa-free stay for Indian passport holders from 30 days to 60 days. The reform was formally confirmed on February 18 by the Royal Thai Embassy and the government’s public relations bureau and is being hailed as a major boost for tourism, trade, education, and long-stay travel.
The decision forms part of a broader visa liberalization strategy introduced in 2025, aimed at stimulating economic recovery, strengthening diplomatic ties, and simplifying entry procedures for international visitors.
Quick Snapshot: Thailand’s New 60-Day Visa-Free Rule for Indians
| Category | Details |
| Previous Rule | 30-day Visa on Arrival |
| New Rule | 60-day Visa Exemption |
| Fee at Arrival | None |
| Eligible Purposes | Tourism, short-term business, family visits, and medical treatment |
| Required Documents | Proof of accommodation, confirmed return/onward ticket, completed Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) |
| Digital Requirement | TDAC to be filled 3 days before travel |
| Overstay Fine | THB 500 per day |
From Visa on Arrival to 60-Day Visa Exemption
Under the revised framework, India has been added to Thailand’s new “Form 60” exemption list, which now covers 93 countries and territories. Indian nationals can enter visa-free for tourism, short-term business, family visits, or medical treatment and stay for up to 60 days without paying a visa fee on arrival.
Previously, Indian travelers were eligible only for a 30-day Visa on Arrival, which required payment of THB 2,000 at immigration checkpoints, often accompanied by long lines at major airports such as Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi and Phuket International.
Now, travelers simply need to:
- Show genuine proof of accommodation for the duration of stay
- Present a confirmed return or onward ticket
- Complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) online at least three days before departure
No airport fee, no visa sticker, and no lengthy paperwork.
Authorities caution that overstaying fines remain at THB 500 per day beyond the permitted period.
A Comprehensive Visa Overhaul Planned for 2025
The 60-day exemption for Indians is part of a sweeping restructuring of Thailand’s visa system introduced in 2025.
Ms. Airin Phanrit, Deputy Spokesperson for the Prime Minister’s Office, said the Cabinet recognized visa policy guidelines proposed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs as part of a comprehensive strategy to revive tourism and streamline travel procedures.
Key reforms include:
- Expansion of visa-free access to 93 nationalities
- Visa on Arrival eligibility for 31 countries, with eight more under consideration
- Reduction of Non-Immigrant visa categories from 17 to 7, effective August 31, 2025
- Launch of the Destination Thailand Visa for remote workers
- Introduction of the Non-Immigrant ED Plus visa for study and combined study-work purposes
- Implementation of a fully integrated electronic visa system across 94 Thai embassies and consulates worldwide
- Replacement of the earlier Electronic Travel Authorization system with the Thailand Digital Arrival Card, in use since May 1, 2025
The structural reforms aim to simplify bureaucracy while maintaining border control standards.
Why the 60-Day Stay Matters for Indian Travelers
India was Thailand’s fourth-largest source market in 2025, with just over two million visitors. However, the average length of stay remained below one week, partly due to time constraints and paperwork required for extensions.
The extended visa-free window could significantly alter travel patterns.
- For leisure travelers, 60 days offers flexibility to combine multiple destinations across the country without concerns about visa extensions.
- For business travelers, the change reduces friction for conferences, trade visits, and corporate engagements. Bangkok continues to serve as a strategic hub for Indian companies expanding into Southeast Asia.
Boost for Tourism, Weddings, and Wellness
Thailand has long ranked among India’s preferred international destinations, known for its cultural heritage, beaches, and hospitality infrastructure.
The longer stay is expected to particularly benefit:
- Destination Weddings: Thailand remains a popular choice for Indian beach weddings. A 60-day window allows families to plan, host, and extend celebrations without visa concerns.
- Honeymoons: Couples can combine multiple cities and islands in one trip without rushing.
- Wellness Tourism: Thailand has developed a strong reputation in yoga, meditation, and holistic wellness, sectors that continue to attract Indian travelers.
- Medical Tourism: The extended stay makes post-treatment recovery more convenient for visitors traveling for elective procedures.
Tourism authorities expect higher per-capita spending as longer stays typically correlate with increased hotel bookings, dining, and retail expenditure.
Digital Arrival Card: What Travelers Must Know
The Thailand Digital Arrival Card replaces the previous paper TM.6 form and the earlier Electronic Travel Authorization system. Operational since May 1, 2025, the digital form must be completed online at least three days prior to travel.
Failure to complete it in advance may result in travelers being asked to fill it out at the airport, reducing the intended time savings.
The digital transition reflects Thailand’s effort to modernize border processing and reduce congestion at immigration counters.
A Strategic Diplomatic Signal
Beyond tourism, the move signals strengthening diplomatic and economic relations between India and Thailand.
As regional destinations compete for Indian outbound travel, Thailand’s decision to extend visa-free stays positions it advantageously in Southeast Asia’s tourism landscape.
With the 60-day exemption now in place, Indian travelers can explore, conduct business, or celebrate milestones in Thailand with greater ease, a policy shift that may well redefine travel flows between the two countries in the coming years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Thailand replaced the 30-day Visa on Arrival with a 60-day visa exemption. Indians no longer pay THB 2,000 on arrival and must complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card beforehand.
Travelers must carry proof of accommodation, a confirmed return or onward ticket, and submit the Thailand Digital Arrival Card online at least three days before departure.
Yes. Thailand extended the stay from 30 days to 60 days under its 2025 visa reform strategy, aiming to boost tourism, business travel, and long-stay visits.
There is no visa fee for the 60-day stay. However, overstaying incurs a fine of THB 500 per day beyond the permitted duration.
Yes. All eligible travelers must complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) online at least three days before arrival. Failure to complete the form in advance may cause delays at immigration.
