Thailand is shortening the duration of its visa-free scheme: the changes will also affect Ukrainians

The era of extended holidays in Thailand without the need for additional documents is rapidly coming to an end. Thailand is officially reducing the visa-free stay for tourists from Ukraine and dozens of other countries from 60 to 30 days. Find out what lies behind these strict measures and how to legally extend your holiday

Legal assistance on migration issues for Ukrainians in Ukraine and abroad

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The Thai authorities have decided to scrap some of the visa exemptions introduced following the Covid-19 pandemic to attract tourists. According to Bloomberg, the kingdom is reviewing its immigration policy, which will have a significant impact on the plans of many foreigners.

How many days can you stay in Thailand without a visa under the new rules?

The main change concerns the duration of legal stay in the country. Under the updated requirements, the visa-free entry period is being halved — from 60 to 30 days. This means that tourists accustomed to long winter stays or extended holidays will now have to plan in advance to obtain the necessary documents or leave the country more frequently. Furthermore, for some countries, a return to the visa-on-arrival system is being considered.

For citizens of which countries have entry requirements been tightened?

The changes are global in nature and affect citizens of dozens of countries that traditionally make up the main tourist flow. In particular, the new restrictions will affect travellers from Ukraine, Russia, China and Poland. The reduction in visa-free periods also applies to citizens of the UK, Germany, Canada and many other countries.

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Why is Thailand scrapping visa privileges?

This sudden change of course is linked to internal security and economic issues. The government explains the tightening of rules by the need to crack down on the illegal employment of foreigners, who often use tourist visas for permanent residence and work. Furthermore, the authorities intend to put an end to widespread abuse of tourist programmes and curb the activities of international criminal groups that have exploited the lenient visa regime.

With the reduction in the duration of the visa-free regime, planning long trips, winter stays or relocation is becoming more difficult. To avoid problems at the border, refusals of entry and to stay legally in the UK for more than 30 days, it is advisable to entrust the processing of documents to specialists. The visa lawyers at the Visit Ukraine portal provide comprehensive support for travellers. Our experts will help you choose the best type of visa for your purposes, correctly compile the necessary documents and navigate all the intricacies of Thailand’s updated immigration laws. Professional legal support will save you time and stress, and protect you from the risk of deportation.

How will the new restrictions affect tourism in 2026?

The Thai authorities themselves realise that such unpopular measures will lead to a decline in tourist numbers. Against the backdrop of the announced restrictions, the government has already revised its economic forecasts. The forecast for the number of foreign tourists in 2026 has been officially revised downwards: instead of the 35 million people originally expected, the country now expects to welcome only around 32 million travellers.

Reminder! Many Ukrainians view Thailand as a place for a new chapter in their lives — the warm climate, hospitality and opportunities for work or study make this country an attractive destination for relocation. Find out more about visas, documents, work and emigration to Thailand for Ukrainians.

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