Southeast Asia Entry Rules After Thailand's 30-Day Visa-Free Cut: 5 Countries Compared
Since September 15, 2026, US, UK and most Western passport holders get 30 days visa-free in Thailand, down from 60, and tourism is the only permitted purpose. Neighbouring countries did not follow, so Vietnam, Indonesia, the Philippines and Singapore now each need a different document. Here is what to line up for each.
| Country | Entry route (US passport) | Stay / cost | Must-do before landing |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thailand | Visa exemption | 30 days, one 30-day extension | Free TDAC |
| Vietnam | E-visa | Up to 90 days, US$25 or US$50 | Apply 2–3 weeks ahead |
| Indonesia | Visa on arrival | Rp 500,000, extendable once | Onward ticket |
| Philippines | Visa-free | 30 days | Onward ticket |
| Singapore | Visa-free | Varies by nationality | Free SG Arrival Card |
1. Thailand
The new exemption covers 60 nationalities, allows a one-time extension of up to 30 days at the officer's discretion, and limits you to two entries per calendar year. Anyone admitted before the cutoff keeps the stay stamped on entry. You must also complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card, which is free and opens three days before travel, via the official TDAC site.
2. Vietnam
Americans still need an e-visa, valid for up to 90 days as single or multiple entry. Fees are US$25 and US$50 respectively, and processing usually takes 3–5 working days through the official Vietnam e-visa portal.
3. Indonesia
US citizens are among 72 nationalities eligible for visa on arrival, priced at Rp 500,000 and extendable once for another 30 days, per the Indonesian immigration directorate. You need six months' passport validity and a return or onward ticket. That page dates from 2022, so confirm the current fee before you fly.
4. Philippines
Citizens of 157 countries can stay visa-free for up to 30 days, according to the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs. Bring a passport valid six months beyond departure and an outbound ticket.
5. Singapore
Singapore requires no visa for most Western passports, but everyone must submit the SG Arrival Card within three days of arrival. The ICA says submission is free, so ignore any site that charges.
Malaysia: the arrival-card trap
Malaysia is not in the table because stay lengths differ by passport, but every foreign visitor must file the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card, which Malaysia’s foreign ministry advises completing about two days before the flight.
People also ask
How long can I stay in Thailand visa-free now?
Thirty days for eligible nationalities, including the US and UK, with one possible 30-day extension at an immigration office. Arrivals admitted by September 14, 2026 keep the stay granted on entry. Details are in the Vialto summary of the Thai notifications.
Is the Thailand Digital Arrival Card still required?
Yes. All non-Thai nationals, visa-exempt or not, must complete the TDAC online before arrival. Submission is free, opens three days before travel, and you show the confirmation email at the immigration counter, per the Thai embassy.
Which Southeast Asian country gives the longest stay?
Vietnam's e-visa, at up to 90 days, is the longest among the five covered here. The Philippines and the new Thai exemption each give 30 days, and Indonesia's visa on arrival can be extended once.
Facts checked against official and primary sources as of October 8, 2026; rules change often, so confirm with each government before booking.