Thailand Visa-Free Stay Is Now 30 Days: What It Means for Your Trip
Since 15 September 2026, UK passport holders can stay in Thailand visa-free for up to 30 days, down from 60. Entering over land on the exemption is limited to twice a calendar year. Longer trips now need a visa, so budget for one before you go.
Short version: 30 days, not 60. The rest, question by question.
How long can Brits stay in Thailand without a visa now?
30 days for tourism, since 15 September 2026. The old 60-day exemption ended that day. The UK is one of 60 countries and territories on the 30-day list, according to the Tourism Authority of Thailand.
Can I still do a border run to Laos or Cambodia?
Yes, but only twice a calendar year on the exemption if you come back in over land. Flying in doesn't have that limit in the rules we read.
Want to see where your money actually goes? BudgetBro tracks it in any currency, free.
Does everyone get 30 days?
No. Seychelles and Mauritius get 15 days. Azerbaijan, Belarus and Serbia get visa on arrival. Some countries have their own deals with Thailand for 90, 30 or 14 days.
Can I extend it?
The announcement we read doesn't say. Ask the Thai embassy before you count on it.
I'm staying six weeks. What now?
Get a proper visa before you fly, or split the trip. Thailand for a month, then Laos, Cambodia or Vietnam. Book your flight out inside the 30 days so the dates line up.
Is it for work or study too?
No. It's for tourism only. Anything else needs the right visa from the Thai government first.
Is Thailand still worth it?
Yes. A month is plenty for most trips. Just check the latest with the Thai embassy or the FCDO the week before you go, because the rules can change fast.
Source: Tourism Authority of Thailand news, 1 September 2026. Photos: Diego Delso, CC BY-SA 3.0. Stefan Fussan, CC BY-SA 3.0.
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