Quick Answer

Most Western tourists do not need a visa in advance. Citizens of the US, UK, EU and around 93 nationalities in total can enter Thailand visa-exempt for tourism — currently for up to 60 days, though Thailand’s Cabinet has approved reverting most nationalities to 30 days and that change could take effect at any time. Verify your own nationality’s current allowance on the official Thai e-Visa portal before you book, and have a passport valid for your stay, proof of onward travel and the TDAC arrival card ready.

Read the full guide: Thailand Visa & Entry Requirements (2026)

How long can you stay in Thailand without a visa?

As of July 2026, visa-exempt tourists from eligible countries can stay up to 60 days. Thailand’s Cabinet approved reverting most nationalities to a 30-day visa-exempt stay (15 days for a few countries), but that change had not taken effect at the time of writing — it activates 15 days after publication in the Royal Gazette. Because the number is actively in flux, treat 60 days as current-but-changing and confirm on the Thai e-Visa portal before your trip. A visa-exempt stay can usually be extended once by 30 days at a Thai immigration office.

What is the TDAC and is it mandatory for Thailand?

The TDAC (Thailand Digital Arrival Card) is a free online form every foreign national must submit before entering Thailand by air, land or sea — mandatory since 1 May 2025, when it replaced the old paper TM6 card. Complete it within 72 hours before arrival at tdac.immigration.go.th, one submission per traveler including children and infants. It is not a visa and does not extend how long you’re allowed to stay; it simply registers your arrival, so do it in the days before you fly.