Moroccan travellers planning a trip to Thailand will soon need to adjust their plans. From 15 September 2026, Moroccan nationals will no longer benefit from the current visa exemption and will have to obtain a visa before departure.
This new rule brings an end to the simplified entry period introduced in July 2024, which allowed Moroccans to stay in Thailand for up to 60 days without a visa.
Thailand visa for Moroccans: new rule effective 15 September
The Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs has announced a review of its visa exemption schemes and its Visa on Arrival policy. The new measures will come into force on 15 September 2026.
Under this revised framework, Morocco is no longer listed among the countries eligible for visa-free entry or for a visa on arrival.
Moroccan travellers will therefore need to complete the necessary formalities before leaving, depending on the purpose of their stay.
A 60‑day exemption introduced in 2024
The change marks a step backwards for Moroccan visitors. Since 15 July 2024, holders of a Moroccan passport were allowed to enter Thailand without a visa for stays of up to 60 days, mainly for tourism and some business-related trips.
This visa-free period could also be extended by up to 30 days, subject to approval from the Thai immigration services.
Why is Thailand changing the rules?
The reform was approved by the Thai government on 19 May 2026.
Bangkok cites several reasons for the revision, including national security, economic and tourism interests, and the principle of reciprocity between states.
Thailand also aims to reduce overlaps between its various visa exemption schemes and to simplify its entry system for foreign visitors.
The rollout of the e-Visa system is another key element highlighted by the authorities.
Thailand visa for Moroccans: no Visa on Arrival
The new regulations do not only end visa-free entry. Morocco is also not included among the countries eligible for the new Visa on Arrival regime.
Moroccan travellers will therefore need to plan ahead and check the conditions that apply to their type of stay before booking their trip.
The Thai government specifies that applications can be submitted through its electronic visa system.
Travellers already in Thailand are not affected
The new measure does not apply retroactively. Foreign nationals who have already entered Thailand under the previous exemption rules may remain in the country until the end of the authorised stay granted upon entry.
The situation will be different, however, for Moroccans planning to arrive in Thailand from 15 September 2026 onwards. They will need to hold the appropriate visa before travelling.
A new formality for Moroccan travellers
For Moroccan tourists, the change mainly means that trips to Thailand will now have to be planned further in advance. After more than two years of visa exemption, the Thailand visa for Moroccans once again becomes a formality that must be dealt with before departure.
Travellers are advised to check entry requirements and required documents with the Thai authorities before making any final booking.
The reform takes effect on 15 September 2026 and ends the 60‑day visa-free regime previously available to Moroccan passport holders.
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