What are the current rules for entering Thailand from Laos for Norwegian passport holders?

No limit any longer!

As a Norwegian residing in Laos, you are currently eligible for Thailand’s visa exemption, allowing you to enter Thailand without a visa for tourism purposes for up to 60 days. 

Regarding the Frequency of Visa Exemption Entries:

• By Land or Sea: Norwegian passport holders are permitted to enter Thailand under the visa exemption scheme twice per calendar year when arriving by land or sea. 

• By Air: The visa exemption allows for a stay of up to 30 days when entering by air. 

Upcoming Changes:

Starting in June 2025, Thailand will implement an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system. This means that all travelers entering Thailand under the visa exemption program will need to register for an ETA before their trip. The ETA is expected to be free of charge and will enable travelers to use automated immigration gates by scanning a QR code provided with their authorization. 

Recommendations:

• Stay Updated: Keep an eye on official announcements from Thai authorities regarding the implementation of the ETA system to ensure compliance with new entry requirements.

• Plan Entries Accordingly: Be mindful of the current limitations on the number of visa-exempt entries per year, especially if you plan to travel frequently between Laos and Thailand.

For the most accurate and current information, it’s advisable to consult the Royal Thai Embassy in Vientiane or visit the official Thai immigration website before making travel plans.

That rule went away with the 60 day visa exempt in July 2024