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Understanding Thailand’s visa exemption rules is essential if you want to travel legally
Thailand attracts tens of millions of visitors every year because of its magnificent scenery, pleasant climate and affordable quality of life. In order to meet high tourist demand and support its economy, the kingdom has introduced a visa exemption in Thailand allowing certain foreign nationals to enter the country without having to fill out a prior application. This exemption aims to simplify administrative procedures while regulating entry conditions in a structured manner.
However, the Thailand visa waiver is governed by strict rules. It applies only to certain nationalities, for specific reasons, and imposes a limited length of stay. Failure to respect or misinterpret these rules can result in severe penalties, such as a ban on entering Thailand or a fine for overstaying.
In this article, we present the current conditions for visa exemption in Thailand, the legal risks in the event of abuse, and useful advice for travellers and expatriates, with references to the 1979 Immigration Act.
Table of Contents
Which authorities are responsible for visa exemptions in Thailand?
What is the legal framework for visa exemption in Thailand?
Visa exemption in Thailand is governed mainly by the 1979 Immigration Act. This founding text governs the entry, exit and stay of foreigners. In particular, it defines the conditions for admission to the country (article 12), grounds for refusal (article 16), length of stay (article 34) and reporting obligations (articles 37 and 38).
Visa exemption in Thailand is also subject to administrative notifications, in particular ministerial orders issued by the Ministry of the Interior and notices issued by the Immigration Bureau. These texts are regularly updated to incorporate political and diplomatic decisions.
Who is responsible for enforcing visa exemption rules in Thailand?
The authority responsible for applying the visa exemption in Thailand is the Thai Immigration Office, under the authority of the Royal Thai Police. This office is responsible for border control, stamping passports, granting extensions of stay and applying penalties for non-compliance with the rules. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs remains responsible for applications for
Which countries qualify for visa exemption in Thailand?
What is the list of countries covered by the exemption?
Since 15 July 2024, tourists from 93 countries have been able to visit Thailand without needing a visa. These countries include France, Belgium, Canada, Switzerland and the United States. Travellers from South Korea, Japan, Singapore and the United Kingdom are also exempt from this formality.
This measure only applies to stays of up to 60 days for tourist purposes. The full list of nationalities benefiting from this exemption is published and regularly updated on the Thai Immigration Office website. The aim is to make it easier for foreign visitors to enter the kingdom, while at the same time controlling the flow of migrants into the country.
Does this exemption apply to all reasons for staying?
No. The Thailand visa exemption is strictly limited to tourist stays. It does not authorise work, voluntary activities, study or investment. For all other purposes, an appropriate visa must be obtained from a Thai embassy before departure.
What conditions must be met to qualify for the Thailand visa exemption?
What are the requirements on arrival in Thailand?
To be eligible for the Thailand visa exemption, you must meet the following conditions:
- A passport valid for at least six months from the date of entry.
- Be a national of a country on the official list.
- Proof of sufficient financial resources (at least THB 20,000 per person or THB 40,000 per family).
- Present an exit ticket within the authorised period (60 days maximum).
- Enter for tourism purposes only.
Are there any special documents to be completed?
Since the beginning of 2025, foreign travellers have been required to complete the Thai Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) online before arriving in Thailand. This form replaces the old paper arrival card.
The TDAC form must be completed within 72 hours of arrival on the official website tdac.immigration.go.th. It requires information such as passport details, travel plans, accommodation address in Thailand and health declarations.
Once submitted, a confirmation will be sent by e-mail. This confirmation must be presented at immigration. In the event of a technical problem or if you forget to fill in your TDAC form, you can do so at a number of entry points.
You are strongly advised to complete the TDAC in advance to avoid delays or refusal of admission.
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Can visa exemption be extended once in Thailand?
What is the maximum length of stay without a visa?
The Thailand visa exemption allows you to stay for 60 days without a visa. This period can be extended once a further 30 days by visiting a local immigration office.
How does the extension procedure work?
Travellers wishing to extend their stay in Thailand under the Thailand visa exemption must go to the relevant immigration office before the 60-day period expires.
It must provide the following information:
- Completed form TM.7,
- A passport-size photo,
- A valid original passport,
- A copy of the initial entry stamp issued on arrival,
- Payment of the administrative fee of THB 1,900, in cash only.
This extension request is examined on a case-by-case basis, at the discretion of immigration officers, in accordance with section 35 of the Immigration Act B.E. 2522 (1979). It is important to note that there are no guarantees, particularly in the case of short successive stays or the absence of sufficient justification as to the reason for the extension.
What are the legal risks of not complying with the visa exemption in Thailand?
What are the penalties for overstaying?
Overstay is punishable by a fine of 500 baths per day, up to a maximum of 20,000 baths. If the stay exceeds 90 days without authorisation, the foreigner risks deportation and a ban on entry of up to 10 years, in accordance with Article 81 of the Immigration Act.
What are the risks of undeclared work under exemption?
It is strictly forbidden to work or earn income in Thailand with a visa exemption. This includes freelance activities, remote services or one-off projects carried out on Thai soil. Failure to comply with the Foreigners’ Working Act B.E. 2551 (2008) may result in a fine, arrest and immediate deportation.
Is it possible to enter in Thailand more than once on a visa exemption?
Is multiple entry permitted?
It is possible to enter Thailand several times a year on a visa-exempt basis. However, the immigration authorities reserve the right to refuse entry if they suspect abuse of this facilitated regime (repeated use for the purpose of de facto residence). There is no official quota, but the risk of being refused entry increases after three or four successive border crossings.
What behaviours can lead to refusal at the border?
Border refusals are often due to :
- No return ticket,
- Lack of proof of funds,
- Frequent entry without a visa,
- Suspicions of illegal employment.
The immigration officer has complete discretion to refuse entry (section 12 of the Immigration Act), even if the formal conditions appear to have been met.
Can a visa exemption for Thailand lead to permanent residence?
No, it is not possible to convert a Thai visa exemption directly into a long-term visa from Thai territory. You will need to leave the country and apply for a visa at a Thai consulate abroad (for example, for an O, DTV or LTR visa).
Conclusion
Thailand’s visa exemption offers a quick and simplified entry point for short-term tourists. However, this mechanism is strictly regulated by the country’s laws. It is essential to understand its limitations, particularly in terms of duration, frequency of entry and the ban on working. The penalties for non-compliance can be severe, with long-term consequences for the ability to return to Thailand in the future.
For regular travellers, expatriates or professionals wishing to settle more permanently, a suitable long-stay visa is the best solution. Benoit & Partners, which specialises in immigration and business law in Thailand, can help you take the right steps and choose the most appropriate migration strategy for your situation. For more information on visa exemption for Thailand, you can also consult the publications of the Thai Immigration Office.