Thailand continues to offer visa free access to Indian tourists and tourists from 93 countries including China and India.
Thailand has recently made several important updates to its visa and entry policies in 2024–2025. Whether you’re an Indian passport holder or from one of the visa‑exempt countries, this guide covers the latest info about Thailand visa, entry requirements, and key changes such as the new Digital Arrival Card.
1. Visa‑Free Access: 93 Countries for 60 Days
As of July 15, 2024, citizens from 93 countries and territories can enter Thailand visa‑free for 60 days (for tourism, business, or ad-hoc work), extendable by 30 days at an immigration office for 1,900 THB
- Number of visa‑exempt countries: 93
- Initial stay: Up to 60 days
- Extension option: +30 days at Thai immigration
However, from March–May 2025, Thai authorities announced they plan to reduce the visa‑free period back to 30 days, aiming to curb misuse by long‑stay tourists and illegal workers MFA Thailand
🔔 Important: The 93‑country visa‑free list remains unchanged. What’s changing is the maximum duration — from 60 days to 30 days soon.
2. Visa on Arrival (VoA): 31 Countries, 15 Days
Travelers from 31 eligible countries can obtain a Visa on Arrival (VoA) at Thai airports or land checkpoints for up to 15 days, effective July 15, 2024
3. Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) – Mandatory Now
Beginning May 1, 2025, Thailand requires all international arrivals (land, air, sea) to complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) online within 72 hours before arrival
- Replaces the old TM6 paper form
- Requires personal, travel, accommodation, and financial information
- Beware of unofficial websites charging fees or phishing — use the official TDAC portal only
4. Thailand Tourist Visa & Financial Proof
Overseas Thai tourist visa requirements reinstated the proof of financial means requirement in May 2025 The Economic Times.
👉 Tip: Indian and other applicants for single/multiple entry tourist visas must again provide bank statements showing sufficient funds.
5. Indian Passport Holders: Special Updates
5.1 Visa‑Free Entry
Indian citizens receive visa‑free entry (60 days) under the 93‑country visa exemption scheme, valid until further notice.
This allows Indian tourists to enter Thailand without a visa stamp for up to 60 days, extendable by 30 days — though the stay might be reduced to 30 days soon
5.2 E‑Visa Launch
Thailand will roll out the official e‑Visa system for Indian applicants from January 1, 2025, through a central online portal
- Option to apply online, eliminating physical visits
- Especially useful for stays over 60 days or multiple entries
5.3 Arrivals & Financial Proof
Applicable to Indians as well — pre‑arrival TDAC must be completed, and financial proof required for visa applicants
6. Border‑Run & Entry Limits
- **Visa‑free arrivals via airport may continue receiving 60‑day stamps up to 6 times/year
- Land/sea border entries are limited to 2 per calendar year under visa exemption
- Exception: Malaysian citizens have no limit on border‑entry exemptions
7. What Digital Nomads Should Know
While the visa‑free scheme is for short stays, Thailand also offers a 5‑year digital nomad visa allowing up to 180 days per entry, multiple entries over 5 years. Ideal for remote workers, though its availability for Indian applicants may vary — check Thai diplomatic channels.
8. Practical Steps for Today’s Travelers
| Traveler Type | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Visa‑free (Indian/eligible country) | Passport + 6 months validity, TDAC, onward ticket, financial proof |
| VoA traveler | Passport + 6 months validity, fee of ~2,000 THB, TDAC, financial proof |
| Tourist Visa applicant | Apply via e‑Visa (Indians from Jan 2025), bank statements |
| Long stay / business / study | Obtain appropriate visa from Thai embassy or consulate |
9. Common FAQs
Q: Will Indians lose visa‑free status soon?
A: No. Indians remain in the list of 93 visa‑exempt countries. Only the duration may be reduced to 30 days
Q: Can I extend my initial visa‑free stay?
A: Yes — regardless of 30 or 60‑day policy, you can apply for a 30‑day extension at an immigration office.
Q: Do I need to fill the TDAC even with VoA?
A: Yes. TDAC is mandatory for all entries starting 1 May 2025
Q: What about work?
A: Visa‑free and VoA arrivals are strictly for tourism/business meetings → No paid work allowed. Digital nomad visas are separate.
Q: How to apply for an Indian e‑Visa?
A: From 1 Jan 2025, visit the official thaievisa.go.th portal and follow instructions สถานเอกอัครราชทูตไทย ณ กรุงนิวเดลี