Sri Lankan passport holders will soon require a visa to enter Thailand, marking a significant shift in the country’s immigration policy that will take effect from 15 September 2026.
From that date, Sri Lanka will be removed from Thailand’s visa exemption scheme, bringing an end to the current arrangement that allows visa free tourist stays for Sri Lankan travellers.
Under the existing rules, introduced in July 2024, ordinary passport holders from 93 countries, including Sri Lanka, have been permitted to enter Thailand visa free for stays of up to 60 days.
However, Thai authorities have now revised the scheme, reducing the general visa exemption list to just 60 countries and territories.
Sri Lanka is among 21 nationalities being removed from the list entirely, meaning Sri Lankan travellers will need to secure a visa in advance before departing for Thailand once the new rules come into force.
The Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs has said that the revised visa requirement will apply specifically to entries made on or after 15 September 2026, making the timing of travel critical for those with trips already planned.
Sri Lankan nationals who enter Thailand on or before 14 September 2026 will still be admitted under the existing rules and will retain their entitlement to a 60 day visa free stay.
