Thailand cuts visa-free stay for British visitors, including Phuket arrivals, to 30 days

British passport holders arriving in Thailand, including those travelling to Phuket, can now stay visa-free for 30 days, down from 60 days under the previous allowance.

The change took effect on 15 September 2026 and applies to visitors entering under Thailand’s visa exemption scheme. Most other tourists have also been reduced to a 30-day visa-free stay, according to the updated guidance.

Travellers who entered Thailand before 15 September will usually retain the period granted to them on arrival. Visitors already in the country should check the departure date recorded by immigration.

Those planning to stay longer can apply before departure for an appropriate visa. The Royal Thai Embassy in London says its tourist visa allows stays of up to 60 days. Eligible visitors may also apply for an extension through Thai immigration authorities, although approval is not guaranteed and applications must be made before the existing permission expires.

Tom Vaughan, a travel insurance expert at Confused.com, said the shorter allowance could affect people who had booked longer holidays expecting the previous 60-day period.

“Thailand is a popular stop for gap year travellers and long holidays, so this will hit those hoping to spend more than a month there,” Vaughan said.

British visitors must have at least six months’ passport validity remaining on arrival and a blank page. They must also complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card within the three days before arrival and may be asked to show evidence of onward travel and sufficient funds.

Overstaying can result in fines, detention, deportation or a ban on returning to Thailand. Visitors refused entry may also face the cost of return flights and non-refundable bookings, as standard travel insurance may not cover a refusal linked to failure to meet entry requirements.