Thailand visa for UK citizens
British passport holders can visit Thailand for 30 days without a visa if they arrive on or after 15 September 2026, counting the arrival day as day 1. One extension of up to 30 days is possible at an immigration office, for about 1900 baht.
Winter sun and longer stays
Thailand is a popular winter escape from the UK, and many British visitors used to rely on the 60-day exemption for a two-month stay. Under the new rule, a stay of that length needs either the extension or a visa arranged in advance. If you are planning a whole winter, apply for a tourist visa or the Destination Thailand Visa through the official e-Visa site before you go.
Overland trips
Visa-free entry through a land border is limited to 2 times per calendar year on a British passport. If your trip crosses into Malaysia, Laos or Cambodia and back, count your land crossings.
Before you fly
- Check your passport’s expiry date against your planned stay
- Book your return or onward flight; officers can ask to see it
- Submit the free TDAC before landing
Worked example
British citizens arriving on Tuesday, 1 December 2026 can stay until Wednesday, 30 December 2026: 30 days, counting the arrival day as day 1. With one approved extension, the last day becomes Friday, 29 January 2027. Leaving two days after the last legal day would mean an overstay fine of 1,000 baht at departure.
Your last legal day
Choose your passport and entry date to see your last legal day.
Questions from British citizens
Do British citizens need a visa for Thailand?
Not for a holiday within the visa-free period. The United Kingdom is on Thailand's visa-exemption list.
How long can I stay in Thailand on a British passport?
The visa-free stay was shortened on 15 September 2026. Enter your arrival date in the calculator on this page to see your last legal day.
I am already in Thailand on 60 days. Does the change affect me?
No. If you entered on or before 14 September 2026, you keep the stay you were granted.
Can I extend in Thailand?
You can ask for one extension at an immigration office before your last day. Approval is at the officer's discretion and there is a fee.
Sources
Last verified:
For information only, not legal advice. The immigration officer at your port of entry makes the final decision. ThaiSpend is an independent site and is not affiliated with Thai Immigration or any government agency. Spotted an error? Tell us.