Thailand is a country with a rich history and culture; and for the most part, Thai people live by or at very least, respect the principles handed down by Buddhism, the country’s official religion. This explains Thai culture and behaviour; not to mention hospitality, tolerance and the respect of people from all walks of life including the LGBT+ community. This website and the “Go Thai. Be Free.” project works to provide enriching content as a source of LGBT+ travel inspiration for those traveling to Thailand.
Passenger Advisory – Thailand Visa Entry Changes Effective 15 September 2026
Effective 15 September 2026, Thailand will introduce new 30-day and 15-day visa exemption categories and updated Visa on Arrival (VOA) eligibility, replacing the current 60-day visa exemption. Travelers from 60 countries and territories, including the United States, Canada, most European Union countries, United Kingdom, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Brunei Darussalam, Australia, India – will be eligible for a visa-exempt stay of up to 30 days for tourism.
Other countries may be eligible for a 15-day visa exemption or Visa on Arrival, where applicable. Travelers from countries requiring a visa must obtain the appropriate visa before travelling.
Land-border entry limits generally apply to the 30-day and 15-day visa exemptions, although exemptions apply to certain nationalities, including Malaysia, Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia and Singapore under the 30-day category. Separate bilateral agreements and other entry arrangements providing 90-, 30- or 14-day stays will continue to apply where relevant.
Travelers are advised to verify the entry requirements applicable to their nationality before traveling.
Thailand Digital Arrival Card
From 1 May 2025, all international visitors are asked to submit the newly launched Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) at least three days before their arrival date, to ensure a smooth and convenient immigration process. Completion of the TDAC is mandatory for all foreign passport holders, regardless of the purpose of their visit, and exceptions only apply to travellers transiting through Thailand without passing an immigration point. Filling out the form is a straightforward process and you will need to include some information on your travel documents, accommodation in Thailand and a basic health declaration. You can fill out your form here.
Are LGBT+ people accepted in Thailand?
This question is often answered by a simple but profound statement, which is very common among Thai people – “Mai Pen Rai” which simply translated means “no problem.” This is the philosophy with which Thai people go through daily life.
In general though, it is not Thai custom to draw attention to oneself; or display affection – especially in public, although on the streets of big cities you’ll often find members of the LGBT+ community holding hands or being close, without anyone batting an eyelid. In any case, as with travel to any country, we suggest that any travelers to Thailand are aware of local customs and act modestly. We continuously reinforce a strong level of respect for Thai culture and way of life.
Thailand has never had any laws against homosexuality. In 2002, the Thai Ministry of Health publicly declared that homosexuality was no longer to be regarded as a mental illness or disorder. In 2005, the Thai armed forces lifted its ban on LGBT+ persons serving in the military. In 2018, a bill was passed through parliament to allow same-gender civil unions. In January 2025, Thailand’s landmark marriage equality bill was enacted. When it comes to the LGBT+ community, Thailand’s government policies are one of the most advanced in South East Asia.
In the past, many Asian and Western gay couples from around the world fly to Thailand with friends and family to exchange vows. These ceremonies are often blessed by Buddhist monks. For many decades, Thailand has been socially considered to be the most forward, welcoming and gay-friendly country in Asia. LGBT+ life in Thailand is well documented and gay hot spots are plentiful all throughout the country starting with Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Pattaya and beyond. LGBT+ people will find any social area in the above mentioned destinations to be warm and accepting.
Go Thai. Be Free. – is the slogan that we feel sums up an LGBT+ vacation or holiday in Thailand. It says it all. There are options for every need, choice and taste. Thailand is much more than go-go bars, discos and parties. Free yourself and be who you are and explore culturally rich experiences across the country.