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Rule-change log

Thai visa rule changes

We aim to confirm each change in at least two sources and say when we could not. Each entry shows its date, what changed and where the information comes from. Last updated 5 October 2026.

Facts reviewed Every figure links to its sourceHow we check facts

Changes, newest first

  1. Visa-free stay cut to 30 days

    Tourist visa exemption reduced from 60 to 30 days for 60 countries and territories; 2 visa-exempt land entries per year. People who entered earlier keep their stamped period. Read the guide.

    Source: TAT News

  2. DTV applications: citizenship or residence plus clearance certificate

    At Thai missions, DTV applicants must apply where they are citizens or can prove legal residence, and provide a criminal record clearance certificate. Applications already submitted before 31 August follow the old rules. Confirmed by one law-firm source so far, so treat it as provisional. DTV guide.

    Source: Issa Compass

  3. e-Work Permit becomes mandatory

    Work permit applications moved to an online system. Existing blue books stay valid until they expire. Work permit guide.

    Source: Norcham

  4. TDAC replaces the TM.6 arrival card

    The Thailand Digital Arrival Card is submitted online before arrival. TDAC guide.

    Source: Thai Immigration (TDAC)

  5. Marriage Equality Act takes effect

    Same-sex spouses can qualify for the marriage-based Non-O extension according to two sources. Non-O guide.

    Source: ThaiLawOnline

  6. Foreign income remitted by tax residents is taxable

    Under Departmental Instruction Por. 161/2566, foreign income brought into Thailand by a tax resident is assessable regardless of the year it was earned. A relief proposal is still a draft and not law as of 27 September 2026.

    Source: KPMG Flash Alert

Not yet law

Draft, not in forceA proposal to exempt foreign income remitted in the year it was earned or the following year was still a draft and not in the Royal Gazette as of 27 September 2026. Do not plan around it.

How this log is kept

We aim to confirm each change in at least two independent sources, and we label entries that rest on one source or on secondary sources only. Subscribe through the Atom feed or email hello@sabaiandco.com if you spot something missing.

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Information on this site is general and is not legal, tax or immigration advice. Sabai & Co. is not a law firm, tax advisor or licensed immigration lawyer. Immigration rules change and are applied differently by office: check the date next to each fact and confirm critical points with the Thai Immigration Bureau or a licensed Thai lawyer. Legal advice, tax filing, insurance brokerage and tour guiding are provided only by licensed third parties. How we check facts.
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