Thailand has removed Sri Lanka from its list of countries eligible for visa-free entry. The Thai government published the revised rules in the Royal Gazette on August 31. The new rules will take effect from September 15.
The change is important for travellers who already have Thailand trips planned. Anyone arriving from September 15 must obtain the correct visa before travelling. However, travellers who enter Thailand before that date can continue their stay under the current rules.
What changes for Sri Lankan travelers
Thailand reviewed its visa rules after the Cabinet approved the changes in May. The review considered national security, tourism, economic interests, reciprocity and the availability of Thailand’s e-Visa system. The government has also changed the countries covered by its visa exemption and Visa on Arrival schemes.
The revised system still allows visa-free travel for citizens of 60 countries and territories. Those travellers can stay in Thailand for up to 30 days without obtaining a visa. Sri Lanka does not appear on that new 30-day visa exemption list.
This means travellers cannot rely on the previous visa-free arrangement after September 15. A flight ticket or previous visa-free entry will not replace the new visa requirement. Travelers should therefore check their visa requirements before making their journey.
How to apply for the Thailand visa?
Sri Lankan travellers can apply through Thailand’s online e-Visa system. The Royal Thai Embassy in Colombo does not accept visa applications in person. Applicants must submit their documents and make the required payments through the online system.
The e-Visa process allows applicants to create an account and complete their applications online. Applicants also need to upload the required documents and pay the relevant visa fee. Once Thailand approves the application, the applicant receives the e-Visa confirmation by email.
Travellers should select the visa category that matches the purpose of their visit. Requirements can vary depending on whether someone travels for tourism, business, study or another reason. Checking the official requirements before applying can help avoid delays or incorrect applications.
What happens to travellers already in Thailand
The new rules do not cut short stays for people who enter Thailand before September 15. Travellers who enter under the existing visa exemption can remain until the end of the period immigration grants them. The important date is therefore the traveller’s entry date, not the date they booked their trip.
For anyone planning a holiday after September 15, the practical message is simple. The trip can still go ahead, but travellers need to arrange the appropriate visa first. Applying early will also give travellers more time to address any issues with their application.
The change does not stop Sri Lankan travellers from visiting Thailand. It simply removes the previous visa-free route and adds a visa application step. For travellers with upcoming plans, checking the new requirement now can prevent problems at the airport later.
Last modified: September 7, 2026
