After months of reports and assessments, the change in Thailand’s entry policy becomes official: Starting September 15, Israelis will be able to stay in the country without a visa for only 30 days, instead of the current 60 days. Those entering the country by September 14 will still receive a 60-day stay period.
The dream vacation in Thailand may become shorter for some Israeli travelers. The Thai government has officially announced the reform in the country’s entry policy, under which the visa-free stay period will be reduced from 60 to 30 days. This makes the possible changes in the visa to Thailand for Israelis, which have been reported in recent months, an official policy.
The change will apply to passport holders from countries and territories included in the new list, including Israel, the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and many European countries. The regulations will take effect on September 15, 2026.
What will happen to Israelis arriving before September 15?
Israeli travelers entering Thailand by September 14 are expected to receive the current stay period – up to 60 days without the need for a prior visa.
Even if their stay extends beyond the effective date of the new regulations, it will not be shortened retroactively. According to the Thai government’s announcement, those who enter the country before the change date can stay until the end of the period approved at entry.
In contrast, Israelis arriving in Thailand from September 15 will receive a stay permit of up to 30 days only.
Planning a long trip? You can request an extension
Israelis planning to stay in Thailand for more than 30 days can approach a local immigration office and request an additional 30-day extension.
However, it is important to understand that the extension is not granted automatically. The request is subject to conditions and the decision of the Thai immigration authorities. Those who already know in advance that they plan a particularly long trip should consider obtaining an appropriate tourist visa before the flight.
The “visa run” phenomenon will also be limited
The new reform also addresses the “visa run” phenomenon – a short exit from Thailand to a neighboring country and return to receive a new stay period.
Visa-exempt entries through land border crossings will be limited to twice during a calendar year. This restriction does not apply in the same way to entries into Thailand by air, but even in these cases, the final decision on entry into the country is in the hands of immigration officers.
Travelers frequently entering and exiting Thailand may be required to explain the purpose of their visits and provide proof that they are not working in the country illegally.
Why is Thailand Tightening the Conditions?
In 2024, Thailand expanded the visa exemption to 93 countries and territories and extended the stay period to 60 days as part of efforts to boost tourism following the COVID-19 pandemic.
The government is now changing direction. According to a statement from the Thai government, the reform aims to prevent the misuse of visa exemptions, reduce illegal work, and strengthen security and economic oversight of those entering the country.
The government emphasizes that the move is not intended to harm tourism but to create a clearer and more controlled policy under the principle that each country will be granted a defined entry benefit.
Is the Change Specifically Related to Tourists from Israel?
The change is not specifically directed against Israelis and will apply to citizens of dozens of countries. However, it comes at a sensitive time when Israeli tourists are receiving increased media attention in Thailand.
In recent weeks, local media reported several incidents involving Israelis in Phuket and Koh Samui. The Thai Minister of Tourism and Sports warned that tourists who break the law, cause conflicts, or disrespect local culture may face visa cancellation and deportation from the country.
The minister stressed that this involves the behavior of individuals and that the warning applies to tourists from all countries. Therefore, the shortening of the stay period should not be seen as a step directed against Israel but as part of a broader tightening of immigration and enforcement policies.
Don’t Forget the Digital Entry Form
Alongside the change in the stay period, every non-Thai citizen traveler is required to fill out the TDAC digital entry form before arriving in the country. Thailand joins a series of countries requiring travel authorization or entry forms before arrival.
The form can be completed during the three days before entering Thailand and includes passport details, flight number, accommodation address in the country, and purpose of the visit. A new form must be completed for each entry into Thailand, even if it is a return visit.
The Bottom Line for Israeli Tourists
Those planning a regular two or three-week vacation will hardly notice the difference. However, travelers heading to Thailand for extended periods, families planning a long vacation, and Israelis staying in the country for several months will need to adjust their plans.
The rule is simple: entry until September 14 – up to 60 days without a visa; entry from September 15 – up to 30 days, with the option to apply for an additional extension.
Before the flight, it is recommended to check the latest guidelines on the official website of the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs and ensure that the passport, entry form, and planned duration of stay meet the requirements. Those already planning their vacation can also read the guide to securing extremely cheap flights to Thailand.
Photo: karin_isme / Pixabay
