If you're planning a short trip to Thailand, you might not need a visa at all. Under the Thailand visa exemption policy, citizens of eligible countries can enter without a visa for tourism or business, depending on bilateral agreements. This saves time, money, and effort—especially for travelers staying under 30 or 90 days. However, even if you're visa-exempt, you are still required to complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) before entering the country.
Understanding whether you qualify can save time, money, and effort when planning your trip.
What is Thailand visa exemption policy?
Thailand visa exemption policy allows travelers from specific countries to enter Thailand without applying for a visa in advance. Depending on your nationality and passport type (ordinary, diplomatic, or official), you can stay in Thailand for 15, 30, or 90 days under different agreements.
Visa exemption categories
Category | Eligible passport types | Stay duration | Notes |
Visa on Arrival | Ordinary | 15 days | For select countries only |
Tourist Visa Exemption Scheme | Ordinary | 30 days | Most common for tourists |
Bilateral Visa Exemption Agreements | Ordinary | 30–90 days | Based on treaties between countries |
Visa Exemption for Diplomatic/Official Passports | Diplomatic/Official | 30–90 days | More generous durations |
All Thailand visa-exempt countries
Here are all the Thailand visa-exempt countries according to their conditions:
Thailand 15-day stay (Visa on Arrival)
Nationals of countries like India, China, Kazakhstan, Bulgaria, Saudi Arabia, Taiwan, and more may obtain a Visa on Arrival valid for 15 days.
Thailand 30-day stay (Tourist visa exemption)
Holders of ordinary passports from the following countries can stay in Thailand for up to 30 days for tourism purposes without a visa:
Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brazil*, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong**, Iceland, Indonesia, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan (until Dec 31, 2026), Korea (ROK), Malaysia, Mexico, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Peru, Philippines, Portugal, Qatar, Singapore, Spain, South Africa, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan**, UK, USA, and more.
*Brazil, Korea (ROK), and Peru also benefit from longer stays (see below).
**Vietnam and Hong Kong have both tourist exemption and bilateral agreements.
If you enter Thailand under the 30-day exemption, you can usually extend it once for an additional 30 days at a local immigration office (fee: 1,900 THB). Here are all the details about Thailand visa extensions.
Thailand 90-day stay (Bilateral visa exemption agreements)
Citizens of these countries can stay up to 90 days without a visa under bilateral agreements:
Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Korea (ROK), Peru***
Russia (Extended to 60 days from May 1 to Oct 31, 2024)
Don't forget your TDAC
Even if you’re exempt from a visa, you must still complete your Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) before traveling. It’s a mandatory step for faster immigration clearance. You can submit your TDAC online before your trip and present the QR code upon arrival.
FAQs
Which countries are visa exempt for Thailand?
Over 60 countries, including the US, UK, EU nations, Japan, Canada, and Australia, are visa exempt. Travelers can stay for up to 30 or 45 days for tourism.
Can I visit Thailand without a visa?
Yes, if you're from a visa-exempt country. You can enter for short stays without applying in advance, usually for up to 30 or 45 days.
How to get visa exemption in Thailand?
If eligible, the exemption is automatic on arrival. You’ll need a valid passport, proof of onward travel, and sufficient funds.
Can I get a Thai visa on arrival?
Yes, citizens of certain countries can apply for a 15-day Visa on Arrival. You’ll need a return ticket, hotel booking, and proof of funds.
