Thailand, one of Southeast Asia’s most beloved tourist destinations, has announced a major shift in its immigration procedures. Effective May 1, 2025, the Kingdom has mandated the use of Digital Arrival Cards (DAC) for all foreign visitors entering the country. This significant development is aimed at streamlining immigration processes, enhancing national security, and improving the overall travel experience.
Here’s everything you need to know about this change, how it impacts travelers, and how you can stay prepared for a hassle-free entry into the Land of Smiles.
Why the Shift to Digital Arrival Cards?
The transition from traditional paper-based immigration forms to a Digital Arrival Card (DAC) system is part of Thailand’s broader digital transformation efforts under the Thailand 4.0 initiative. This initiative aims to modernize the nation’s infrastructure, strengthen security, reduce bureaucracy, and enhance data management capabilities.
Previously, all foreign visitors had to fill out TM6 paper forms, either in-flight or upon arrival. These paper-based cards were often considered cumbersome, prone to errors, and a source of congestion at immigration checkpoints. The digital card eliminates manual data entry, reduces waiting times, and enhances the accuracy of visitor data, which is critical for immigration control and tourism development.
What Is the Thailand Digital Arrival Card?
The Digital Arrival Card (DAC) is an electronic immigration form that foreign visitors must complete before entering Thailand. This online form captures essential travel and identification details and replaces the former TM6 form.
Key Features:
- Mandatory for all foreign visitors arriving by air, land, or sea.
- Must be completed online prior to arrival in Thailand.
- Contains sections for personal information, travel details, accommodation, flight number, and health declaration (if required).
- Upon successful submission, travelers receive a QR code or confirmation email, which must be presented to immigration officers upon arrival.
The DAC is designed to be mobile-friendly and easily accessible via smartphones, tablets, or computers.
Who Needs to Complete the Digital Arrival Card?
Starting May 1, 2025, all non-Thai nationals entering the Kingdom are required to submit the Digital Arrival Card before their arrival. This includes:
- Tourists
- Business travelers
- Expatriates returning to Thailand
- Students
- Transit passengers (in some cases)
- Foreign workers
- Medical tourists
- Visa-exempt travelers and those with pre-approved visas
Thai citizens are currently exempt from this requirement.
Where and When to Show the Digital Arrival Card?
Upon reaching Thailand, travelers must present their DAC confirmation at immigration counters. Depending on the airport or land border crossing, this may involve:
- Scanning the QR code at automated immigration kiosks (in major airports like Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, or Phuket).
- Showing the confirmation email or printed copy to the immigration officer.
- Answering basic questions related to your stay in Thailand, such as intended length of stay, contact number, or hotel booking confirmation.
Benefits of the Digital Arrival Card System
The introduction of a digital entry system brings numerous advantages for both the Thai government and international visitors:
1. Faster Immigration Processing
With pre-verified data available digitally, immigration officers can process entries more quickly, significantly reducing long queues at airports and border points.
2. Enhanced Security and Accuracy
Digital data entry minimizes the risk of errors and fake information. It also helps authorities flag suspicious individuals in real-time.
3. Eco-Friendly Approach
The DAC system eliminates millions of paper forms annually, supporting Thailand’s efforts toward sustainability and reducing its carbon footprint.
4. Convenient for Travelers
Filling out forms on the go, even before boarding, reduces stress and saves time during transit. Travelers no longer need to search for pens or juggle forms during flights.
5. Better Tourism Data Management
With accurate real-time data on foreign arrivals, the government can make better decisions related to tourism, infrastructure, and emergency response.
What Happens If You Don’t Submit the DAC?
Travelers who fail to submit the Digital Arrival Card prior to entering Thailand may face delays at immigration or even be denied entry in certain situations. While there may be kiosks or assistance booths at some major airports for last-minute submissions, these services may not be available at all entry points. Hence, it’s highly recommended to complete the DAC at least 24–48 hours before departure.
Integration with Other Travel Services
Thailand’s DAC system is expected to integrate with other platforms in the near future, including:
- E-visa systems
- Thailand Pass (if reintroduced)
- Thai health tracking systems
- Digital wallet or identity platforms
This will allow a seamless, all-in-one travel documentation system, especially for repeat travelers, students, and long-term visa holders.
How Can Unimoni Assist You with the New Thailand Digital Arrival Card?
As Thailand ushers in a new digital era in its immigration system, the process may feel unfamiliar or daunting to many international travelers. That’s where Unimoni steps in. With over 25 years of expertise, 300+ branches across India, and a dedicated team of travel professionals, Unimoni ensures a smooth, stress-free experience from start to finish.
1. Visa Assistance for Thailand
Unimoni handles all visa-related needs including:
- All types of visas for Thailand
- Visa documentation support
- Embassy submission and follow-up
- Latest updates on entry and exit rules
With Unimoni, you’re prepared not just for the DAC but for every requirement that ensures a smooth arrival in Thailand.
2. Air Ticketing and Accommodation
From booking your flights to Thailand to choosing the right accommodation, Unimoni provides comprehensive packages. Our team:
- Finds the best fares and routes
- Books hotels near your points of interest
- Ensures DAC information matches travel dates and details
3. International Money Transfer & Forex
Unimoni is a leader in outward remittances and foreign exchange. Before your Thailand trip:
- Get Thai Baht (THB) at competitive rates
- Load a Forex Travel Card
- Send money abroad for visa fees, hotel reservations or other travel-related needs
- Use our 24×7 airport branch at Cochin for last-minute forex or remittance needs
4. Travel Insurance & Protection
Travel with confidence with Unimoni’s customized travel insurance plans, including:
- Medical coverage
- Trip delay protection
- Loss of baggage or documents
5. 24X7 Customer Support
Whether you’re stuck with DAC submission or need help retrieving a confirmation, our round-the-clock customer care is just a call or click away—before, during, or after your trip.
Why Choose Unimoni?
✅ One-stop solution for travel, visa, forex, and insurance
✅ Trusted by lakhs of customers across India
✅ 300+ Branch network and 15,000+ agent locations for easy accessibility
✅ Fast, secure, and customer-friendly service
✅ Up-to-date with latest international travel regulations like Thailand DAC
