Thailand keeps 14‑day visa exemption for Myanmar

Thailand’s recent decision to halve visa‑free stays for dozens of countries does not affect Myanmar nationals, who will continue to receive 14 days of visa‑free entry by air, according to a notice from Myanmar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

🔹 New rules for others

On 15 September, Thailand reduced its visa‑free stay from 60 days to 30 for citizens of 60 countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada and Australia. The change ended a temporary 60‑day exemption introduced in July 2024 for 93 countries and territories.

🔹 Myanmar unchanged

Myanmar was never part of the 60‑day scheme. Its citizens benefit instead from a bilateral agreement signed in 2015, which grants 14 days of visa‑free entry when arriving by air at international airports. That arrangement remains untouched by the September reforms.

🔹 Regional context

Thailand has long been a crucial destination for Myanmar nationals — from migrant workers and students to refugees — particularly since the 2021 military coup. Millions of Myanmar citizens currently reside in Thailand, relying on short‑term entry rules and work permits to sustain their livelihoods.

While Thailand tightens visa exemptions for many countries, Myanmar’s air‑entry arrangement remains unchanged, underscoring the special bilateral framework between the two neighbours.

-2026-09-23