Maldivian passport holders will be permitted to enter Thailand without obtaining a visa and remain in the country for up to 30 days under a revised entry framework approved by the Thai Cabinet.
The latest decision improves upon an earlier proposal that would have limited visa-free stays for Maldivian travellers to 15 days. Under the revised framework, the Maldives is among six countries granted the 30-day visa exemption, alongside Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, India and Malta.
The arrangement will continue to provide Maldivians with convenient access to one of Asia’s most popular travel destinations. Thailand remains a preferred destination among Maldivian travellers for family holidays, leisure trips, business engagements, medical services, shopping and short-term visits.
Thailand offers a broad range of tourism experiences, combining modern cities, historic attractions, cultural heritage, natural landscapes and a well-established hospitality industry. Bangkok serves as an important regional centre for commerce, healthcare, retail and international travel, while destinations such as Phuket, Krabi, Pattaya and Koh Samui are widely recognised for their beaches, family-friendly attractions and extensive selection of hotels and resorts.
The country’s resort and hospitality sector accommodates travellers across a wide range of preferences and budgets, from internationally operated beachfront properties to smaller boutique hotels and family-oriented accommodation. Thailand’s strong domestic transport network and established tourism services also allow international visitors to combine city stays with visits to coastal destinations, historic provinces and island communities.
Thailand introduced a 60-day visa exemption for citizens of 93 countries and territories in 2024 as part of efforts to strengthen international tourism and support the wider economy. The Thai authorities subsequently reviewed the blanket arrangement following concerns relating to immigration violations, unlawful activities and national security risks.
Under the revised system approved on 14 July 2026, citizens of 59 countries and territories will be eligible to enter Thailand without a visa for tourism purposes and remain for up to 30 days. Thailand has determined the entry privileges available to each country by considering national security, economic interests, international relations and reciprocal travel arrangements.
For Maldivian travellers, the revised policy reduces the permitted stay from the existing 60-day allowance but provides a longer period than the 15-day exemption proposed during the earlier review. The 30-day period is expected to remain suitable for most holiday, family, medical and short-term business travel requirements.
The changes will become effective 15 days after the relevant announcements of Thailand’s Ministry of Interior are published in the Royal Gazette. Travellers who enter Thailand before the revised rules take effect will be permitted to remain for the duration granted by immigration authorities upon their arrival.
Maldivians planning to travel to Thailand are advised to confirm the effective date of the revised framework and review the latest entry requirements before departure. Travellers should also ensure that their passports, accommodation details, return or onward travel arrangements and other required documentation are prepared for inspection by Thai immigration authorities.
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