Thailand is tightening its visa-free entry rules, cutting the maximum stay for tourists from Israel and 59 other countries from 60 days to 30 days.
The new policy, set to take effect on September 15, 2026, will apply to nationals of 60 countries, including Israel, the United States, Britain, Canada, Australia, France, Germany, Italy and Japan. The measure replaces Thailand’s previous 60-day visa-exemption arrangement.
Tourists already in Thailand before the new rules take effect will not be affected and may remain for the period granted at entry. Under the revised system, eligible visitors may still apply for an extension of up to 30 additional days, subject to approval by Thai immigration authorities.
Thailand is also tightening entry through land borders. Visa-exempt travellers from most eligible countries will generally be permitted to use the scheme for land-border entry no more than twice in a calendar year, although some Southeast Asian nationals are exempt from the restriction.
The changes are part of a broader effort by Thailand to tighten immigration controls, prevent misuse of visa privileges and streamline its visa-exemption system while maintaining access for genuine tourists. Thailand’s government has cited security, tourism and economic considerations, reciprocity and the need to reduce overlapping visa privileges as reasons for the reforms.
The decision is significant for Israeli travellers, for whom Thailand remains a major holiday destination. The new rules, however, are not directed specifically at Israel but form part of a wider policy affecting tourists from dozens of countries.
