After Songkran, amid a visa reform under review and ongoing tensions along the Cambodian border, is it still safe to travel to Thailand in June 2026? Here are the clear answers and latest updates to help you plan your trip with peace of mind.
Political and Security Context in Thailand
Why are there still tensions?
Thailand remains open to tourism, but the country is going through a sensitive period politically, diplomatically and along parts of its borders.
- Anutin government: the early elections held on February 8, 2026 confirmed the strength of the Bhumjaithai Party. Anutin Charnvirakul is now in office and presented his policy statement to Parliament on April 9, 2026. Institutional uncertainty is therefore lower than in spring, although several issues remain sensitive.
- Border conflict with Cambodia: the 2025 clashes have given way to a ceasefire signed on December 27, 2025. The guns are silent, but the situation remains fragile. In late May 2026, new incidents revived diplomatic tensions between Bangkok and Phnom Penh, while Thailand began reviewing some border-related framework agreements. Land border crossings between Thailand and Cambodia remain closed or strongly discouraged depending on the area.
🧱 Border wall: in spring 2026, Thailand began construction of an initial permanent physical border section in Chanthaburi province.
⚠️ Official advice: recommendations vary by country, but most governments advise against travel close to the land border with Cambodia. Some advisories use wider caution zones than others, so check the guidance issued by your own government before travelling near the border.
🏝️ Koh Chang and Koh Kood: these islands remain calm and popular with tourists, but they are located in a border province. The warning mainly concerns areas close to the land border and border checkpoints. Check official travel advice before departure and make sure your travel insurance for Thailand remains valid for the area where you plan to stay.
- Immigration: the government has approved a revision of the visa exemption system. Until the new rules officially enter into force, travellers should continue to check the conditions that apply to their nationality before departure.
New Rules: Entry Formalities and Transport
Mandatory Thailand Digital Arrival Card
Since May 1, 2025, the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) has been mandatory for foreign nationals entering Thailand. This free electronic form must be completed online within 72 hours before arrival.
Visa exemption: 60 days still apply, but the reform has been approved
As of June 2, 2026, the 60-day visa exemption remains available for eligible nationalities until the new reform officially enters into force.
The Thai Cabinet has approved a revision of the visa exemption system. The announced framework provides for 54 countries and territories to receive a 30-day visa exemption, three countries or territories to receive a 15-day visa exemption, and separate bilateral agreements that may continue to provide 14, 30 or 90 days depending on the nationality.
The reform still needs to be officially published before taking effect. The new rules should therefore not be treated as applied until an official text confirms their entry into force.
Mandatory travel insurance: proposal under review
Thailand is also studying the possibility of requiring foreign tourists to hold health or accident insurance in order to reduce unpaid medical bills. As of June 2, 2026, this measure is not yet a general entry requirement, but travel insurance for Thailand remains strongly recommended, especially if you plan to rent a scooter.
Zero tolerance on the roads since April 1, 2026
April 2026 — Stricter traffic fines have come into effect. Failing to wear a helmet or seat belt can cost up to 2,000 THB, speeding can cost up to 4,000 THB, and penalties for drunk driving have been reinforced.
News Briefs: Safety and Justice in Thailand
This section covers recent safety and justice-related events that may be relevant to travellers and residents.
Parole for Thaksin Shinawatra
Bangkok, May 11, 2026 — Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra was released on parole. He remains under supervision until the end of his sentence, in a political context that remains sensitive.
For travellers, this event has not disrupted the main tourist areas, but it is a reminder that Thai politics can evolve quickly. If you come across a political demonstration or gathering, it is best to move away from the area.
Thefts from long-distance bus luggage holds
Early 2026 — The Tourist Police have warned of an increase in thefts of valuables from luggage placed in the hold during overnight bus journeys to the south and north. Keep passports, money, bank cards, phones and other valuables with you in the cabin.
For up-to-date security information, consult the UK Government travel advice for Thailand or your national equivalent.
Health and Society News in Thailand
PM2.5 pollution in the North
Spring 2026 — Air pollution was very high in northern Thailand, especially in Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai and Mae Hong Son, due to the agricultural burning season. The worst peaks usually occur between March and April, but the situation can still vary depending on wind, rainfall and residual burning.
In June, conditions are generally less critical than during the peak burning season, but it is still advisable to check the real-time air quality index in Thailand before hiking, riding a scooter or spending time outdoors in northern Thailand.
Alcohol sales: rules relaxed since May 29, 2026
Since May 29, 2026, Thailand generally allows alcohol sales from 11 AM to midnight in licensed shops, restaurants and venues. The former 2 PM to 5 PM sales ban has therefore been lifted under the updated rules.
This does not mean alcohol is available everywhere at all times. Restrictions may still apply in certain locations, during Buddhist religious holidays, during election periods or depending on local licences.
7-Eleven sign: alcohol allowed from 11 AM to midnight to support tourism.
So, is it safe to travel to Thailand in June 2026?
Yes, it is still possible to travel to Thailand in June 2026. The main tourist destinations remain accessible, but travellers should avoid areas close to the land border with Cambodia, complete the TDAC before arrival, check visa rules before any long stay and be especially careful on the roads, particularly when riding a scooter.
For a classic trip to Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Koh Samui, Krabi, Pattaya, Ayutthaya or Thailand’s main tourist islands, the country remains a practical destination. The main precautions concern entry formalities, movements near sensitive border areas, road safety and travel insurance.
🔄 Last updated on June 2, 2026
