Thailand cuts visa-free stay for Kazakh citizens to 30 days from September 15

September 14, 2026 at 09:07 AM2 min

This digest was compiled by AI from multiple sources — links to the originals are below.

Thailand's cabinet has approved a reduction in visa-free stay for Kazakh citizens from 60 to 30 days, effective September 15, 2026. The change returns Kazakhstan to the terms of the bilateral agreement signed in Bangkok on April 23, 2024, and in force since February 24, 2025. Kazakh citizens planning longer stays must obtain a visa in advance.

Key Facts

The new visa-free stay limit of 30 days takes effect on September 15, 2026.
The total stay in Thailand must not exceed 90 days within any 180-day period.
The bilateral agreement on visa exemption for national passport holders was signed in Bangkok on April 23, 2024, and entered into force on February 24, 2025.
Kazakh citizens planning to stay longer than 30 days must obtain a tourist or long-term visa in advance.
Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow announced in May 2026 plans to shorten the visa-free period to strengthen control and prevent illegal use of the regime.

Policy Change

Thailand's cabinet approved the reduction of visa-free stay for Kazakh citizens from 60 to 30 days. The decision cancels the previously granted 60-day visa exemption and returns to the terms of the bilateral intergovernmental agreement. The agreement was signed in Bangkok on April 23, 2024, and entered into force on February 24, 2025. The new rules take effect on September 15, 2026.

Stay Limits

Kazakh citizens may stay in Thailand without a visa for up to 30 calendar days from the date of entry. The total duration of stay must not exceed 90 calendar days within any 180-day period. The measure aims to prevent illegal labor migration and the practice of visa runs. The Kazakh Embassy in Thailand recommends that citizens take the new rules into account when planning vacations, remote work, or winter stays.

Visa Requirements

If the planned stay exceeds 30 days, Kazakh citizens must obtain a tourist or long-term visa in advance through official Thai diplomatic missions. The Kazakh Embassy in Thailand advises citizens to plan trips in advance and consider the new migration rules. Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow stated in May 2026 that the proposal was prepared under the previous administration but implementation was postponed due to elections.