Thailand to launch new digital arrival card in May

Thailand is introducing a new online arrival form known as the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC), which will be implemented this May.

The TDAC will replace the traditional TM6 paper arrival card, which was previously completed during the flight before entering the country.

This digital form, which can be submitted in advance of travel, is part of Thailand’s broader Smart Tourism initiative aimed at modernising and enhancing the visitor experience.

Worapa Ankhasirisap, Director of the Tourism Authority of Thailand in London, said: “This is a huge step forward in enhancing the travel experience for international visitors. This streamlined, paperless system makes the arrival process more efficient.”

Starting 1 May 2025, all international visitors must complete the TDAC online prior to arrival in Thailand.

The process is mandatory but free of charge.

However, travellers holding non-Thai passports who are transiting through Thailand without passing through immigration are exempt from this requirement.

After completing the form online, travellers will receive a QR code, which must be presented – either digitally or printed – along with their passport to immigration officers upon arrival.

Last month 10 tourists were hurt in a tour bus crash in southern Thailand.