Thailand’s visa-free era is over: From Maldives to Indonesia, where Gen Z travellers can go next?

Scrolling through Instagram, you suddenly realise that everyone is travelling to Bangkok and Phuket. Obviously, because of the cheap flights and hassle-free travel experience. This instantly leads to the creation of a WhatsApp group called “Chalo Thailand”. Surprisingly, all your friends agree to the trip that was planned barely a week ago. Flights booked, Airbnb reserved, bags packed, yay, Thailand it is. It was that easy to travel to a place that offered Goa-like vibes, but on an international level.


But Thailand is now moving Indians back to the visa-on-arrival category. The country has officially ended its 60-day visa-free entry for Indian travellers. As visa regulations become stricter, young travellers are now being forced to either plan trips well in advance or explore destinations where travelling remains easier. The move has also fuelled conversations online, where many users are debating whether the reputation of Indian tourists abroad played a role in Thailand’s decision to shift Indians back to the Visa-on-Arrival category.

Since July 2024, travelling to Thailand has become incredibly easy, making it one of the most accessible international destinations for Indian travellers. However, the new revision in visa regulations has disrupted this easy-breezy travel culture. In May 2026, the Thai Cabinet approved the end of the 60-day visa-free entry scheme for Indian travellers. However, the revised rules have not yet come into effect. According to the Tourism Authority of Thailand, the regulations will only be implemented 15 days after their publication in the Royal Gazette, which has not happened yet.


The reduction in the duration of stay may not affect most tourists significantly, as many travellers usually spend less than 15 days in Thailand. However, it could impact social media influencers, digital creators and remote workers who often stay in the country for longer periods for shoots, collaborations or workations.

The bigger concern for travellers lies in the return of the Visa-on-Arrival (VoA) system. India has now been moved back to the VoA category, which worries many budget and impulsive travellers. The visa-on-arrival fee of 2,000 Thai Baht will make trips more expensive, especially for young travellers planning spontaneous getaways. Along with the added cost, longer wait times at airports and additional documentation may also reduce the convenience that once made Thailand such a popular destination among Gen Z tourists.

Travel experts believe that this policy change could push travellers towards destinations that still offer easy and visa-free access. For Gen Z, convenience often matters more than luxury or high-budget travel experiences. Here are five destinations where impulsive travellers can still plan a hassle-free getaway.


Known for its luxurious island resorts, beaches and water activities, the Maldives offers visa-free entry for Indian travellers. Tourists can visit the country with a valid passport and necessary travel documents.

Surrounded by serene mountain ranges and monasteries, Bhutan is known for its peaceful atmosphere and focus on happiness and well-being. It offers visa-free short-term stays for Indians, who can travel using either a valid passport or a voter ID card.

Known for its beaches, lagoons and cultural diversity, Mauritius is gradually gaining popularity among Indian travellers on social media. Indians can visit Mauritius visa-free for a limited duration with a valid passport.

Popular among Gen Z travellers for destinations like Bali, Indonesia, which is known for its affordability, digital nomad culture and easy entry norms. It continues to attract travellers looking for hassle-free international trips.

Seychelles is a visa-free island destination famous for its beaches and scenic landscapes. Travellers are required to present a valid passport, return tickets, accommodation proof and sufficient funds upon arrival.


For Gen Z travellers, Thailand was more than just a trending destination — it represented freedom, affordability and spontaneity. But with stricter visa regulations now in place, the culture of impulsive international travel may slowly change. As Thailand becomes less accessible, young travellers are likely to look towards destinations that still offer convenience and hassle-free entry.