Since 15 September Thailand no longer offers 60-day visa-free stays to 93 countries. Chinese citizens can still stay 30 days under the bilateral agreement; DTV applicants must now apply in their home country.
Thailand ended its unilateral 60-day visa exemption for 93 countries and territories, including China, on 15 September 2026; the scheme had applied since 15 July 2024. The Chinese embassy in Thailand said on 2 September that the China–Thailand mutual visa exemption agreement for ordinary passports is not affected: Chinese citizens can still enter visa-free, but for up to 30 days per stay and no more than 90 days in any 180.
In other words, the two-month visa-free stay is gone. Anyone going to work, study, report or settle, or planning to stay longer than 30 days at a time, needs the right visa in advance. The embassy also reminded travellers that visa-free entry is not unconditional: passports need at least six months’ validity, and the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) must be completed before arrival.
New rules for the DTV as well
Since 31 August 2026, the popular DTV (Destination Thailand Visa) has two new requirements: you must apply at a Thai embassy or consulate in your country of nationality or residence, and you must submit a police clearance certificate from that country (with an English translation if it is not in English). Applying from inside Thailand or from a third country on the way no longer works.
If you are planning a DTV application, get your police clearance certificate early and have it translated and authenticated as required.
For conditions, fees and the application process for every Thai visa, see our Thailand visa guide; for living costs, healthcare and the Chinese community, see the Thailand guide.
