Prime Highlights:

• All international tourists visiting Thailand from May 1, 2025, will need to complete a mandatory Digital Arrival Card (TDAC).
• The TDAC replaces the paper TM6 form and aims to simplify the entry process and improve border security.

Key Facts:

• The TDAC will be obligatory for all sea, land, and air travelers entering Thailand.
• The online application must be submitted at least 72 hours before arrival at tdac.immigration.go.th.
• There are no fees for the TDAC, and confirmation must be presented at immigration points.

Key Background:

Thailand will adopt a new entry process for international visitors from May 1, 2025, under which all international travelers will have to fill out a Digital Arrival Card (TDAC). The digital system ends the earlier used paper-based TM6 form, which had been suspended from use since July 2022 to give an impetus to tourism following the pandemic. The new method is designed to accelerate Thailand’s immigration system by making it more efficient, secure, and aligned with international trends in digital travel technology.

The TDAC form must be filled in online within 72 hours of arrival and includes personal information, travel history, health details, and address of accommodation in Thailand. On submission, tourists will receive a receipt that must be saved either digitally or printed and produced when the tourist arrives at the immigration.

This shift towards a digital system aligns Thailand with other countries that have adopted similar systems, such as the SG Arrival Card of Singapore. The Thai government expects this switch to make entry easier, reduce congestion at the border checkpoints, and offer a further enhancement of security through increased data gathering about incoming visitors.

Despite being user-friendly and problem-free, non-compliance may lead to delays or additional screening at the point of entry. It is therefore crucial that all visitors give information on time. The Thai government will also be carrying out an awareness campaign to familiarize tourists and travel operators with the new requirement prior to May implementation. The change is expected to improve the entire quality of travel for international visitors, with streamlined entry procedures in fewer documents and paperwork.