Sri Lankan passport holders will no longer be eligible for Thailand’s visa‑exemption or Visa on Arrival (VoA) schemes from September 15, 2026, under revised entry regulations published by the Thai government.
Thailand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced that the updated visa‑exemption and VoA rules were gazetted on August 31, following a Cabinet‑approved review earlier this year. The changes abolish the previous 60‑day visa‑free entry and introduce a revised list of countries eligible for shorter visa‑exempt stays.
Security, Tourism and Reciprocity Behind Policy Shift
According to Thai authorities, the review considered several factors, including national security, tourism and economic interests, reciprocity, and the need to eliminate overlapping visa privileges. The availability of Thailand’s expanding e‑Visa system also played a role in restructuring entry categories.
As a result, Sri Lankan travellers arriving in Thailand on or after September 15 must obtain an appropriate visa before departure.
Visa applications can be submitted through Thailand’s online e‑Visa platform, while the Royal Thai Embassy in Colombo has issued a detailed “New Visa Measures” notice dated September 4 outlining the updated requirements.
Travellers Already in Thailand Not Affected
Sri Lankan visitors who enter Thailand before September 15 under the existing visa‑exemption scheme will be allowed to remain until the end of the stay period granted by Thai immigration. The new rules will not retroactively affect those already in the country.
Tourism‑Related Categories Only
The revised measures apply specifically to tourism‑related visa exemptions and Visa on Arrival arrangements. Other visa categories—such as work, study, business or long‑stay visas—remain governed by their respective regulations.
Embassy Advisory
The Royal Thai Embassy in Colombo has urged travellers to familiarise themselves with the updated requirements and to use the official e‑Visa system to avoid delays or complications.
About the Author
