Thailand visa for British citizens: do you need one?

Visa rules for a tourist visit

The UK is on the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs list of countries whose citizens can enter Thailand visa-free for tourism for up to 30 days, in force since 15 September 2026. The Royal Thai Embassy in London and GOV.UK (updated 12 October 2026) say the same.

The exemption is for tourism only. GOV.UK says it does not cover business activities such as conferences or meetings, and that visa-exempt entries over land borders are normally limited to 2 per calendar year. The Royal Thai Embassy in London says visa-exempt entry is allowed only twice in a calendar year, without limiting this to land borders, so if you plan several trips in one year, check with the embassy.

How long you can stay

You can stay up to 30 days. The Royal Thai Embassy in London says you may request an extension of stay for up to 30 days. Thai official sources add that an extension is at the immigration officer's discretion.

If you overstay, GOV.UK says the fine is 500 baht per day, up to a maximum of 20,000 baht.

What to have ready

• Passport: GOV.UK says it must have an expiry date at least 6 months after the date you arrive, and at least 1 blank page.
• Onward travel: the Royal Thai Embassy in London says you may need proof of onward travel scheduled within 30 days of your arrival date.
• Proof of funds: the official sources give different amounts. GOV.UK (updated 12 October 2026) says at least 10,000 baht per person or 20,000 baht per family. The Royal Thai Embassy in London says immigration officers may ask for 20,000 baht per person.
• Fees: there is no visa fee for the visa exemption, and the TDAC arrival card is free.

The arrival form

You must submit the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) within 3 days before you arrive. It is free on the official Thai Immigration website, and our separate TDAC page shows you how to fill it in.

Recent and upcoming changes

• 15 September 2026: the 30-day tourist visa exemption replaced the previous 60-day exemption. Travellers who were already in Thailand keep the stay they were given. GOV.UK reflects the new 30-day rule.
• Proposed, not confirmed: a 450 baht entry fee for foreign tourists from early 2027, according to a Thai Government Public Relations Department headline of 17 August 2026. It has not been confirmed as approved and has no confirmed start date.