The revised rules will take effect on 15 September, with travellers entering Thailand before that date continuing to enjoy the current 60-day visa exemption, with scope to apply to extend stays by a further 30 days.

The change, though, means UK and Irish visitors wanting to stay for more than 30 days will need to apply for the permission to remain, although the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has said the impact on the UK and Irish market is expected to be limited.

"The changes will have little impact on most holidays, as British and Irish visitors typically travel to Thailand for two to three weeks," said Worapa Angkhasirisap, TAT Director for the UK and Ireland.

She added those planning longer stays should check the latest entry requirements with the Royal Thai Embassy or Consulate before travelling to "ensure they have the most appropriate visa for the duration of their itinerary".

The decision effectively reverses Thailand's decision in 2024 to extend visa exemptions from 30 to 60 days, which also saw eligibility expanded to nationals from 93 countries. At the time, the longer stay was promoted to the travel trade as a way of encouraging agents to sell more extended itineraries and regional travel as the world emerged from the pandemic.

"Thailand is such a diverse country with so much to explore," said then-TAT director Sadudee Sangnil. "The option to stay for up to three months provides an opportunity for visitors to travel at a more leisurely pace. It's also a great sales opportunity for agents, to sell longer trips filled with more experiences and tours."

The latest measures will instead introduce country-specific entitlements under a new "one country, one entitlement" principle, with Thailand arguing the revised framework will simplify its immigration system while strengthening security.

Alongside the visa changes, Thailand is also rolling out an optional Thailand Immigration Management mobile app (THIM), allowing travellers to scan their passport details, store travel information and register groups of up to 10 people when completing the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC).

THIM does not replace the TDAC, which remains mandatory for international arrivals following its launch last year, nor is the app itself an additional entry requirement.