In a notice dated 11 November 2026, the Royal Thai Embassy in New Delhi reiterated that ordinary Indian passport holders continue to enjoy a 30-day visa-exemption for tourism introduced on 15 September 2026. The reminder follows social-media rumours that the scheme would end after Diwali. The embassy states that the waiver remains “effective until further announcement” and applies to all international airports, land crossings and seaports. Travellers must hold a passport valid for six months, proof of onward travel within 30 days and at least THB 10,000 per person in funds (cash or equivalent). One 30-day extension can be obtained at any Thai immigration office for THB 1,900. For Indian tour operators, the confirmation averts a feared rush for Visa on Arrival facilities that can see two-hour queues at Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport in peak season. Airlines likewise avoid the check-in chaos that followed past rule changes when ground staff demanded pre-approved e-VOAs. Corporate mobility teams should note that the exemption covers bona-fide business meetings provided the stay is under 30 days and no remunerated work is performed. Longer assignments or remunerated activity still require a Non-Immigrant “B” visa obtained in advance. Thailand received a record 1.9 million Indian visitors between September and November 2026, according to the Tourism Authority of Thailand. Hoteliers along the Phuket–Krabi belt expect occupancy to hit 90 per cent over the New Year period, buoyed by the continued waiver.
Source: Royal Thai Embassy (New Delhi)
