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HomeNewsThailand's New Entry Visa Requirements 2025—What Every Traveler Needs to Know

Thailand’s New Entry Visa Requirements 2025—What Every Traveler Needs to Know

Thailand has always been a top destination for travelers around the world, but 2025 marks a major shift in how visitors enter the country. With sweeping reforms introduced this year, it’s crucial to understand the Thailand entry visa requirements to avoid delays, fines, or outright denial of entry. Whether you’re a tourist, business traveler, or digital nomad, the Thai government’s new regulations affect almost every aspect of travel.

Let’s break down the most important changes so you can plan your trip confidently.


Overview of Thailand’s Entry Visa Policy

Thailand’s entry visa requirements have historically been flexible, welcoming millions each year with visa-exempt entries, visa-on-arrival options, and long-stay permits. However, in 2025, new digital systems and tighter regulations were introduced to streamline immigration, strengthen border security, and manage the tourism boom more sustainably.

Key objectives behind these changes:

  • Digitize and modernize immigration forms
  • Improve traveler data collection
  • Shorten processing times at immigration checkpoints
  • Reduce illegal overstays

Introduction to the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC)

The most significant update in 2025 is the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC), replacing the old paper TM6 form.

What is TDAC?

TDAC is a mandatory digital form that all international travelers must fill out online within 72 hours before arrival in Thailand. It collects essential details like:

  • Passport info
  • Flight data
  • Accommodation details

How it replaces the TM6

Before 2025, visitors filled out the TM6 on the plane. This form is now obsolete and replaced by a more efficient, paperless solution.

How to complete TDAC:

  1. Visit the official TDAC portal (th.usembassy.gov)
  2. Register and log in
  3. Submit your personal and travel details
  4. Receive a QR code to present at immigration

Pro Tip: You cannot enter Thailand without this QR code.


Expanded Thai e-Visa System

Thailand’s e-Visa system now supports applicants from almost every country globally.

How to apply:

  • Go to thaievisa.go.th
  • Upload a passport photo, bio page, and hotel confirmation
  • Pay online via credit/debit card
  • Receive your e-Visa in 3–7 days via email

Benefits:

  • No need to visit a consulate
  • Faster processing
  • Centralized approval

This is a game-changer for remote workers, retirees, and frequent travelers.


Introduction of Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)

From June 2025, even visa-exempt travelers must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before entering Thailand.

Who needs an ETA?

Citizens of countries who previously entered Thailand visa-free must now:

  • Apply online before flying
  • Pay a small processing fee
  • Get approved before check-in

ETA helps Thai immigration pre-screen travelers and reduce congestion at airports.


Changes in Visa-Free Entry Duration

Some countries enjoyed up to 60 days of visa-free entry—that’s now reduced to 30 days.

Affected countries:

  • United States
  • United Kingdom
  • Australia
  • Most EU nations

Travelers staying longer need to apply for a visa extension (30 additional days) from immigration offices in Thailand.

Explore Thailand eVisa official website for more information

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