Stuck in Thailand due to the Middle East crisis? A complete guide to what to do

A flight cancellation due to geopolitical tensions and closed airspace in the Middle East is an unpleasant surprise. If you are currently in Thailand and your airline has announced that your flight home has been canceled, it is crucial to keep a cool head.
There are a lot of half-truths circulating about what to do and what we are entitled to. We checked it out and here is a summary of the most important things to do, step by step.

1. Myth vs. Fact: 2,000 THB per day allowance

There is a lot of information on the internet that the Thai government is paying stranded tourists 2,000 THB per day. The Thai government has indeed released crisis funds, but be careful – you won’t get them in cash or in your account. These are subsidies intended directly for accommodation facilities to cover your hotel and food costs while you wait for a replacement flight.

What to do: * Ask your hotel reception directly if they are involved in this assistance program.

• If the hotel does not cooperate, call the English-speaking Tourist Police on line 1155 , they will direct you to the right places.
• More information can be found on the official website of the Tourist Police .

2. Visas and the threat of “Overstay”

Your absolute priority is to maintain your legal status in Thailand. Under normal circumstances, overstaying your visa can result in severe fines and future problems.

Good news! Thailand is currently waiving overstay fines if you can't depart within 60 days due to cancelled flights. Authorities are also allowing you to extend your stay by 30 days.

What to do: * You must not ignore the situation! The measure does not apply automatically.

• With your passport and confirmation of the canceled flight, you must physically go to the nearest immigration office (for example, Jomtien if you are in Pattaya) and apply for an extension.
• Official information and forms can be found on the Immigration Bureau website .

3. Where to look for more verified information

For further and always up-to-date information, we recommend following the official website of the Tourist Authority of Thailand (TAT) . The full text of the temporary relief for travelers affected by the airspace closure can be found here:
https://www.tatnews.org/2026/03/thai-immigration-bureau-introduces-temporary-relief-measures-for-travellers-affected-by-middle-east-airspace-closures/

Thailand is a hospitable country that is used to handling crises. Be systematic, take advantage of available government programs, and you will soon be safely on your way home.