If you’re planning a trip to Thailand in 2025, there’s an important update you need to be aware of. From May 1, 2025, Thailand will officially replace its traditional TM6 arrival and departure form with a fully digital system known as the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC). This shift to online immigration processing aims to simplify entry procedures, reduce waiting times, and enhance border security—a significant change for international travellers.
Here’s what you need to know about the new system and how it will affect your future travels to Thailand.
What is the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC)?
Previously, all foreign visitors entering Thailand had to complete the TM6 form, a paper-based document that collected personal details, passport information, and travel plans. This form was usually handed out on flights, at border checkpoints, or upon arrival at immigration counters.
In July 2022, Thailand temporarily suspended the use of the TM6 form at airports to ease congestion and speed up processing times. This suspension was later extended to land and sea checkpoints, making travel more seamless for tourists. Now, rather than reintroducing the TM6 form in its original format, Thailand is going digital.
From May 1, 2025, travellers will be required to fill out the new TDAC form online before arriving in Thailand. This means that instead of filling out paper documents during your flight or at immigration, you’ll be able to complete your arrival formalities in advance, ensuring a smoother entry process.
Why is Thailand Introducing a Digital Arrival Card?
According to Nattareeya Thaweewong, Permanent Secretary of Thailand’s Ministry of Tourism and Sports, the move to digital immigration is designed to:
✔ Speed up border processing—By eliminating the need for manual paperwork, TDAC aims to reduce queues and waiting times at immigration counters.
✔ Enhance security and tracking—The system will allow authorities to better track and manage tourist movements, which is especially important for safety and border control.
✔ Improve the overall tourist experience—The government hopes that by removing unnecessary paperwork, visitors will have a more convenient and hassle-free arrival.
This transition is also part of Thailand’s broader digital transformation strategy, which includes the development of an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system for visa-exempt travellers in the future.
How Will the TDAC Work?
While full details are yet to be announced, the TDAC system is expected to function similarly to other online pre-arrival immigration forms used in countries like Singapore, Canada, and Australia.
Steps to Complete the TDAC Form:
1️⃣ Visit the official TDAC website (expected to be announced before the launch).
2️⃣ Fill in your personal details, passport information, and travel itinerary.
3️⃣ Submit the form online before your departure to Thailand.
4️⃣ Upon arrival, immigration officers will verify your details electronically, eliminating the need for physical documents.
Since this free online form will be compulsory for all air, land, and sea arrivals, it’s crucial to ensure you complete the TDAC process before travelling.
What About the 300-Baht Tourism Fee?
For now, the controversial 300-baht tourism fee that the Thai government previously proposed is likely to be postponed. Officials have suggested that the government wants to ensure the TDAC system is working smoothly first before implementing any additional fees or screening measures.
Will the Digital Arrival Card Affect Visa Policies?
The TDAC will not change Thailand’s visa requirements. If you need a visa to enter Thailand, you must still apply in advance through the official channels. However, for visa-exempt travellers, TDAC will likely function as a pre-arrival registration system, similar to an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) in other countries.
What This Means for Future Travel to Thailand
For frequent travellers to Thailand, this update represents a significant step towards modernising the country’s immigration process. Instead of dealing with paper forms at crowded immigration counters, you’ll be able to submit your information in advance and enjoy a quicker arrival experience.
However, as with any new system, it may take time to iron out technical issues and ensure a smooth transition. Travellers should stay updated with announcements from Thailand’s Ministry of Tourism and Sports and the Immigration Bureau before their trip.
Final Thoughts: Is This a Positive Change?
Thailand’s move to digital immigration is a welcome change that aligns with global trends. While it may take some time to adjust, the convenience of pre-arrival registration should ultimately make travel to Thailand more efficient and enjoyable.
If you’re planning a trip to Thailand from May 2025 onward, be sure to:
✅ Stay informed about the official TDAC registration website and process.
✅ Complete the form online before your flight to avoid any last-minute surprises.
✅ Check for updates on any potential tourism fees or additional travel requirements.
For the latest updates, visit Thailand’s Immigration Bureau or check out the official Bangkok Post article here.
