Thailand visa and entry rules

Visa exemption

Citizens of many countries, including the EU member states, the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, Australia and Japan, can enter Thailand as tourists without a visa. Since 15 September 2026 the visa-exempt stay for most eligible nationalities is 30 days, shortened from the 60 days introduced in 2024. Some nationalities that were previously exempt now need a visa.

The list of eligible countries and the allowed length of stay are set by the Thai government and can change at short notice. Always check with the Royal Thai Embassy in your country or on the official e-Visa website before you travel.

Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC)

All foreign visitors must complete the free Thailand Digital Arrival Card online within the three days before arrival, on the official immigration website tdac.immigration.go.th. It replaced the paper arrival form. Save the confirmation on your phone. Beware of third-party sites that charge a fee for the same form.

Other entry requirements

• A passport valid for at least six months from the date of entry.
• Proof of onward or return travel, which airlines and immigration may ask to see.
• Proof of sufficient funds may be requested at the border.
• Your accommodation address for the TDAC; use your first hotel.

Staying longer

A visa-exempt stay can usually be extended once by up to 30 days at an immigration office, for a fee of about 1,900 THB. The nearest immigration offices to Phi Phi are in Krabi and Phuket. For longer stays, apply for a tourist visa or another visa type through the official e-Visa system before travelling.

Tourist entry fee

Thailand has discussed a tourism entry fee for foreign visitors for several years. As of October 2026 it is not being collected from visa-exempt air travellers; current proposals point to 2027 at the earliest. We will update this page when the fee is confirmed.