Planning a trip to Thailand this year? Get ready for a smoother, smarter entry process. Starting May 1, 2025, all travelers entering Thailand must complete an online TM6 immigration form before arrival. This digital form, known as the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC), replaces the old paper-based TM6 form, which was discontinued in April 2024.
What You Need to Know About The Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC)
The TDAC is mandatory for all foreign visitors arriving by air, land, or sea including both arrival and departure components, offering a streamlined approach to Thailand’s immigration processes. By transitioning to a digital system, authorities can better monitor tourist activities, strengthen security measures, and reduce congestion at entry points. The move aligns with Thailand’s broader goals of modernizing infrastructure while accommodating increasing tourist numbers.
Previously, paper-based TM6 forms were discontinued to ease airport operations and reduce wait times. With the TDAC, the Thai government is taking another step toward creating a seamless travel experience while maintaining robust security protocols.
Key Changes for Travelers
1. Mandatory Digital Form Submission
Travelers must complete the TDAC online within 3 days before arrival through official website https://tdac.immigration.go.th The TDAC is available in multiple languages, including English, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, and Russian. Upon successful submission, a digital copy will be generated, which must be presented at border control. Make sure to save the TDAC on your device and back it up. Exceptions: If travelers forget to complete the TDAC before arriving, self-service kiosks and immigration officers at entry points will assist in completing the process. However, we highly recommend completing the form 3 days in advance before your arrival to avoid delays.
2. Postponement of Tourism Tax and ETA
Thailand originally planned to introduce a 300-baht tourism tax in 2025 to support tourism infrastructure and insurance. However, this tax has been postponed. Similarly, the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system—designed to screen visa-free travelers before arrival—has also been delayed. The government wants to ensure that the TDAC system is fully operational before implementing any new requirements. Depending on the success of the digital form, these programs could still be introduced later.
Benefits of the TDAC
- Faster Immigration Processing: Submitting the form online before arrival reduces queues at entry points.
- Improved Data Accuracy: Digital submissions minimize errors common in manual forms.
- Enhanced Security: Authorities can track visitor movements more effectively to ensure safety.
- Eco-Friendly Travel: Eliminating paper forms contributes to sustainability.
As Thailand moves forward with this digital transformation, the TDAC promises to enhance traveler confidence and solidify the country’s reputation as a forward-thinking destination. For visitors, it’s a simple yet impactful upgrade that ensures smoother arrivals and departures in the Land of Smiles.
How to Prepare for Your Trip to Thailand
If you are planning to visit Thailand after May 1, 2025, make sure to complete the TDAC online before your trip. While the government expects the process to be simple, early submission is recommended to avoid complications, especially since the system is new. Completing the form ahead of time will help you steer clear of potential delays at the airport.
The good news is that travelers will not yet need to pay the tourism tax or apply for an ETA. These initiatives are currently on hold and may take months to launch, depending on how well the TDAC system performs. For now, the focus is on a smooth entry process without adding extra requirements.
A Step Towards Modern Travel
Dreaming of exploring Thailand but worried about navigating the new entry requirements? Our team of experts offers personalized visa consultation, ensuring your trip to the Land of Smiles is smooth and hassle-free. We handle the paperwork so you can focus on enjoying your adventure. Contact SVBL today and let us make your journey to Thailand unforgettable!
