The Chinese Embassy in Thailand issued a notice on September 2nd stating that, according to relevant agreements, Chinese citizens holding valid passports can still enjoy visa-free entry to Thailand. From September 15, 2026, Chinese citizens holding official ordinary passports or ordinary passports can still enter Thailand visa-free for tourism, family visits, and other reasons stipulated in the agreement, with a single stay not exceeding 30 days (cumulative stay not exceeding 90 days within any 180-day period).

The announcement stated that the Thai government recently issued a notice adjusting the visa-free entry and stay period, with the relevant regulations taking effect on September 15, 2026. The embassy, after verifying with relevant Thai departments, confirmed that this adjustment does not affect the bilateral visa-free agreement between China and Thailand. What Thailand cancelled was its previous unilateral 60-day visa-free policy for holders of ordinary passports from 93 countries and regions, including China. The "Agreement between the Government of the People's Republic of China and the Government of the Kingdom of Thailand on Mutual Visa Exemption for Holders of Ordinary Passports," which came into effect on March 1, 2024, remains valid.

The embassy also reminds travelers that visa-free entry does not equate to unconditional entry. Those intending to enter Thailand for work, study, news reporting, settlement, or other activities requiring prior approval, or intending to stay in Thailand for more than 30 days, must obtain the appropriate visa before entering Thailand.

On July 15, 2024, the Thai government announced an extension of visa-free entry for citizens of 93 countries and regions, including China (including Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan), for tourism, business activities, and emergency or temporary work, with a maximum stay of 60 days per trip. Starting this year, considering security and economic factors, Thailand adjusted this policy and officially released the relevant announcement at the end of August. (Source: Xinhua News Agency)