After Songkran and amid ongoing tensions along the Cambodian border, is it still safe to travel to Thailand in May 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 March and April, 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 and land border crossings are still closed or discouraged depending on the area.
- 🧱 Border wall: in spring 2026, Thailand began construction of an initial permanent physical border section in Chanthaburi province.
- 🏝️ Koh Chang and Koh Kood: these islands remain calm and popular with tourists, but they are located in a border province. 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 is studying tougher entry rules, but no new measure should be treated as effective until an official text has been published.
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 in force
As of May 3, 2026, the 60-day visa exemption remains available for eligible nationalities. A reduction to 30 days is being studied by the government, but it has not yet entered into force.
The reform could also reduce the list of eligible countries from around 93 countries to 57 countries. This point should be monitored before any long stay, but it is not yet an applied rule.
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 May 3, 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 2026 — Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra is expected to be released on parole on May 11, 2026. The exact conditions of his supervision, including whether he will be required to wear an electronic monitoring bracelet, have been the subject of conflicting reports and remain to be confirmed.
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
April-May 2026 — Air pollution was very high in northern Thailand in spring, especially in Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai and Mae Hong Son, due to the agricultural burning season. In early May, the situation can change quickly depending on wind and rainfall.
Before travelling, check the real-time air quality index in Thailand so you can adjust outdoor activities accordingly.
Afternoon alcohol sales: test phase nearing review
Since December 2025, Thailand has been testing a 180-day suspension of the historic ban on alcohol sales between 2 PM and 5 PM. As of May 3, 2026, this trial period is nearing its end, but no final decision has yet been confirmed on whether it will be maintained, modified or stopped.
7-Eleven sign: alcohol allowed from 11 AM to midnight to support tourism.
So, is it safe to travel to Thailand in May 2026?
Yes, it is still possible to travel to Thailand in May 2026. The main tourist destinations remain accessible, but travellers should avoid Cambodian border areas, complete the TDAC before arrival, check visa rules before any long stay and be especially careful on the roads, particularly when riding a scooter.
🔄 Last updated on May 7, 2026
