Thailand Tourism Authority Moves to Ease Concerns and Fears Over Upcoming MANDATORY Digital Arrival Form. As Thailand gears up to welcome what they hope is an ambitious proposal for 40 million tourists in 2025, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is rolling out a big update to its immigration process: the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC), which we covered in detail here previously.- The Pattaya News

Thailand Tourism Authority Moves to Ease Concerns and Fears Over Upcoming MANDATORY Digital Arrival Form

Adam JuddSaturday, 5 April 2025, 16:24

oplus_2

Thailand-

As Thailand gears up to welcome what they hope is an ambitious proposal for 40 million tourists in 2025, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is rolling out a big update to its immigration process: the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC), which we covered in detail here previously.

Set to become mandatory for all foreign visitors starting May 1st, 2025, this shift from the traditional paper-based TM6 form to a fully digital system has sparked many concerns online, with some travelers afraid it will cause possible problems or delays to their trips. In response, the TAT is stepping up efforts to ease concerns, stating that the TDAC will be, according to them, a painless, user-friendly process designed to enhance—not hinder—the travel experience.

Thailand's tourism industry has seen a remarkable rebound, with over 35.54 million visitors in 2024 alone, a 26.27% increase from the previous year. This surge, fueled by relaxed entry policies and visa exemptions, has prompted the need for a more efficient and secure immigration system.

The TDAC, accessible online at tdac.immigration.go.th, replaces the paper arrival card that travelers once filled out by hand upon entry. The TAT views this as a natural evolution, aligning Thailand with global trends toward paperless travel seen in countries like Singapore and Malaysia.

"The TDAC is about making your arrival smoother and faster," a TAT spokesperson said. "We're not adding hurdles; we're removing them. This is a simple, modern tool to keep Thailand welcoming and accessible." The system allows travelers to submit their details—such as passport information, travel plans, and accommodation—up to three days before arrival, reducing wait times at immigration checkpoints.

Despite the promised benefits, the announcement of the TDAC has stirred some unease online as we have covered here, with travelers voicing worries about technical difficulties, accessibility, and potential delays. Posts on platforms like X and Facebook have highlighted fears of a cumbersome process or penalties for those unfamiliar with digital systems. The TAT is quick to counter these concerns, stressing that the transition will be straightforward and supported at every step.

"There's no need to panic," the TAT reassured in a recent statement. "This isn't a complex application or a barrier to entry—it's just the paper form you already know, now online."

The process is free, takes only a few minutes, and can be completed on any smartphone, tablet, or computer. For those less tech-savvy, the TAT is working with airlines, embassies, and tourism operators to provide assistance, including on-the-ground support at major entry points like Bangkok, Phuket, and Chiang Mai.

The TAT also points out that the TDAC is mandatory only for foreign nationals entering Thailand by air, land, or sea, with exceptions for those transiting without passing immigration or using a Border Pass. Thai nationals are also exempt, but not expats on various types of visas.Once submitted, travelers receive a confirmation—either digital or printable—to present at immigration, ensuring a seamless check-in.

To further calm nerves, the TAT is launching an international awareness campaign ahead of the May 1 deadline. This includes informational guides distributed at airports, partnerships with airlines to notify passengers, and multilingual resources online. The official TDAC website will open for submissions starting April 28, 2025, giving travelers ample time to familiarize themselves with the system. It is currently in beta mode and the TAT has stressed that certain features missing currently, like identifying Thailand as an expat's place of residence, will be added.

"We're here to help every step of the way," the TAT spokesperson added. "Whether it's a tutorial video, a helpline, or staff at the airport, no one will be left struggling or rejected from entry for failure to fill out the form." 

The TAT's message is clear: the TDAC is not a problem to dread. By cutting paperwork and streamlining arrivals, it's designed to keep Thailand competitive as a top global destination while managing the pressures of record-breaking tourism numbers. 

For travelers planning a trip to Thailand after May 1, the advice is simple: log on, fill out the form which is estimated to take less than a minute for most users, and enjoy your journey. The Tourism Authority of Thailand is determined to prove that this digital shift will be as painless as promised.

Photo credit: Adam Judd for The Pattaya News.