Thailand Digital Arrival Card To Become Mandatory For Tourists Starting May 1

Starting May 1, 2025, Thailand will introduce the Thailand Digital Arrival Card, a fully digital entry system that all international travellers will be required to use. From this date, travellers arriving in Thailand by air, land, or sea must complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card online within 72 hours prior to their arrival. After submission, they will receive a confirmation document that must be presented at immigration checkpoints. This new system replaces the previous TM6 form, which will no longer be used, making the Thailand Digital Arrival Card a mandatory requirement for all travellers.

Thailand Goes Paperless

The Thailand Digital Arrival Card paperless process for all travellers, regardless of whether they have a visa. This system is particularly beneficial for Indian travellers as it will streamline the entry process.

Thailand is already a popular destination for Indian tourists, thanks to its visa-exemption policies and extensive flight connectivity. With the new digital system, Indian tourists can expect a quicker and more efficient immigration process.

The Thailand Digital Arrival Card is accessible through the official website. All foreign travellers, regardless of whether they hold a visa, must complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card before arriving in Thailand, whether they are travelling by air, land, or sea. The only exceptions are individuals in transit who do not pass through immigration control and travellers with a "Border Pass" for designated border crossings.

The Thai government has confirmed that submitting the Thailand Digital Arrival Card will be free of charge, making it accessible for all travellers. However, if you fail to submit the form on time, you may experience delays or additional screening. Immigration authorities strongly recommend that travellers complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card early to prevent any issues upon entry, especially if you are travelling during peak holiday seasons.

How To Apply For The Thailand Digital Arrival Card

Travellers must complete the TDAC (Thailand Digital Arrival Card) within 72 hours, or three days, prior to arrival. Once the application is submitted, the digital card will be sent to your email as a PDF file. You should print it or save it on your smartphone to present at immigration.

• To obtain the Thailand Digital Arrival Card, visit the official website at tdac.immigration.go.th and click on “Arrival Card.”

• Fill in your personal information, including your name, date of birth, nationality, passport number, and visa number (if applicable), then click “Continue.”

• Next, provide your travel details, such as your date of arrival, means of transportation, purpose of stay, and your address in Thailand (hotel or home). You will also need to declare your health status by listing the countries you have visited in the 14 days prior to your arrival.

Rise In Indian Tourists Visiting Thailand

In 2024, Thailand welcomed a record 2.1 million Indian visitors, making India the country's third-largest source market for tourism. Indian citizens can enter Thailand visa-free and stay for up to 60 days. Popular destinations among Indian travellers include Bangkok, Phuket, Chon Buri, Krabi, and Phang-nga, as well as emerging locations like Surat Thani and Kanchanaburi.