Thailand to Introduce Digital Arrival Card for Streamlined Immigration Process Starting May 1, 2025

Streamlining Travel, Simplifying Entry: Thailand’s New Digital Arrival Card for a Seamless Immigration Experience

Bangkok, April 30: Starting May 1, 2025, Thailand will implement a new digital immigration procedure, requiring all international travelers to complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) before entry. This move will replace the traditional TM6 paper form and is part of Thailand’s initiative to modernize its border control processes and enhance the experience for tourists arriving by air, land, or sea.

Travelers will need to submit the TDAC online within 72 hours before their arrival in Thailand. The form will request essential information such as passport details, travel plans, accommodation address, and a brief health declaration. Upon submission, travelers will receive a digital confirmation, which they must present at immigration checkpoints. This pre-arrival data collection is expected to reduce congestion and speed up the immigration clearance process.

The TDAC system will be integrated with Thailand’s biometric database and connected to several government agencies, including the Ministry of Tourism, the Department of Disease Control, and the Department of Consular Affairs. This integration aims to enhance border security, improve health surveillance, and streamline data coordination across different departments.

While digital kiosks and on-site support will be available for travelers who have not completed the TDAC in advance, authorities strongly recommend submitting the form beforehand through the official website (tdac.immigration.go.th). The TDAC will be available in multiple languages, including English, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, and Russian, to cater to a diverse range of visitors.

Certain groups, such as diplomats and international officials, will be exempt from this requirement. For most tourists, however, completing the TDAC will become a necessary step in their travel preparations.

With the launch of this new system, Thailand aims to offer a more efficient, secure, and seamless travel experience, further solidifying its reputation as a modern, tourist-friendly destination.