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From May 1, 2025, Thailand will introduce a new digital immigration system, the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC), which will replace the traditional TM6 form. This initiative aims to simplify entry procedures for foreign travelers by modernizing and digitalizing immigration formalities. By allowing visitors to complete their arrival cards online before arrival, Thailand hopes to improve the efficiency of border controls while providing a smoother experience.
From May 1, 2025, the Thailand will implement a new, fully digital immigration system, known as Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC). This change aims to replace the traditional TM6 immigration form, used by foreign travelers when arriving and departing from the country. This new system aims to simplify and speed up entry procedures, providing a smoother travel experience.
Context of the creation of TDAC
The TM6 form, long used, is an arrival and departure card that foreign travelers had to complete when passing through France. Thailand. This form collected essential information such as name, date of birth, passport data and residence address. It was encapsulated in a sometimes tedious process, leading to prolonged wait times at immigration, particularly at airports.
A necessary simplification
In response to concerns about the efficiency of entry into the country, the Thai government temporarily suspended the TM6 form requirement for air arrivals in July 2022. The suspension was aimed at reducing congestion at airports and boosting tourism in minimizing administrative formalities. The extension of this suspension to other checkpoints solidified the idea that a digital system could better serve travelers.
The implementation of the TDAC
With the implementation of the TDAC system, travelers will be able to complete their immigration formalities online before their arrival. Nattareeya Thaweewong, the permanent secretary of Thailand’s Ministry of Tourism and Sports, said the online service is part of a broader initiative to promote tourism and facilitate entry for travelers. The Thai administrative machine is modernizing in order to offer better service to tourists.
Advantages of the digital system
The move to the digital TDAC form is expected to result in several significant benefits. Among them, we note the reduction of waiting times at borders, better management of traveler flows, as well as an overall more pleasant experience for international visitors. Thai authorities believe the move will help boost the country’s competitiveness as a tourist destination.
Articulation of TDAC with other immigration systems
The implementation of the Thailand Digital Arrival Card will also be linked to other government databases, including those of airlines and customs agencies. This will enable efficient and coordinated data exchange, aimed at improving the safety and security of travelers. The latest progress on this system will be gradually revealed by the Thai authorities.
Next steps
As the launch date approaches, details regarding the implementation stages and terms of use of the Thailand Digital Arrival Card will be communicated by the competent authorities. Travelers are encouraged to stay informed on recent developments, including those relating to obtaining an electronic visa (e-Visa) and other administrative formalities. For information, users can visit platforms dedicated to immigration to Thailand, such as Thai Tourism, or explore perspectives on traveling to Thailand through online articles.
Digitization of hospitality in Thailand
- New system: Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC)
- Effective date: May 1, 2025
- Replacement : Paper TM6 immigration form
- Objective : Simplification of entry procedures
- Accessibility: Online filling before arrival
- Linking: Connected to relevant agency databases
- Main benefit: Reduction in waiting times
- Impact on tourism: Facilitates entry for international travelers
- Procedure : Information to follow communicated later
Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) FAQ
A: TDAC is a new digital immigration system that will replace the paper TM6 form to simplify entry procedures for foreign travelers to Thailand.
A: The Thailand Digital Arrival Card will be in effect from May 1, 2025.
A: This passage aims to facilitate the entry of travelers, reduce waiting times and improve the efficiency of border controls.
A: The TM6 form collects personal information, such as name, date of birth, passport data, and address of residence in Thailand.
A: Travelers will have the opportunity to complete immigration formalities online before arriving in Thailand.
A: In July 2022, the Thai government temporarily suspended the requirement to complete the TM6 form for air arrivals and extended this suspension to land and sea checkpoints.
A: Authorities hope that this system will facilitate entry for travelers and improve the overall experience of passengers arriving in Thailand.
A: Yes, the TDAC system will be linked to data from relevant agencies, including the Division of Disease Control and airlines.