Thailand has announced a change in the visa exemption rules for passport holders from South Africa, reducing the visa-free period from 60 to 30 days. This change will take effect on September 15, 2026, and is part of a broader review of Thailand's visa exemption system.
This notification was published in the Royal Thai Government Gazette on August 31. The change affects South Africans traveling to Thailand for tourism purposes and requires attention from those planning a longer stay in the country, such as island tours or visits to Bangkok and Chiang Mai.
Currently, South African passport holders can enter Thailand without a visa and stay for up to 60 days for tourist purposes. However, starting September 15, 2026, the maximum visa-free stay will be 30 days, although the possibility of visa-free entry for tourism remains.
The existing 60-day stay permit remains valid for travelers who enter Thailand before September 14, 2026. It is important to note that this change will not affect the stay duration for those who have already entered under the old rules; only the date of actual entry matters.
The Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated in May 2026 that the government is reviewing visa exemption and visa-on-arrival systems. The review considered issues of national security, tourism and economic interests, as well as problems with overlapping visa privileges and the growing convenience of Thailand's e-visa. Furthermore, the government mentioned its intention to combat the misuse of visa privileges.
As a result, a stricter visa exemption system has been created, as Thailand is abandoning the broader 60-day regime introduced in 2024. Travelers wishing to stay longer are advised to consider obtaining the appropriate visa or inquiring about extension possibilities through the Thai immigration service. Although an extension of 30 days may be possible under certain circumstances, it cannot be assumed automatically, as immigration decisions can vary.
Therefore, if a planned trip to Thailand is scheduled for six weeks or two months, travelers should study the rules in advance rather than waiting until they arrive at the airport. They must check their entry date and intended length of stay. If the trip is planned before September 15, the previous 60-day exemption applies; however, if entry is after this date and a stay longer than 30 days is planned, a visa application or extension must be processed.