If you are planning a trip to Thailand this year, you should be aware of a change at the border. From May 1, 2025, all travelers will be required to complete the online TM6 entry form before entering the country. This is to improve the registration of foreign nationals and increase tourist security. The digital form replaces the old paper version, which was discontinued last year, and will now be called the "Thailand Digital Arrival Card" (TDAC).

At the same time, Thailand has decided not to introduce the 300 baht tourism tax and the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system for the time being. The government wants to ensure that the TM6 system is functioning smoothly before adding new requirements. Here's everything you need to know about these changes.

What is the TM6 form and why is it back?

The TM6 form is a document that all foreign visitors must complete before arriving in Thailand. Airlines previously distributed paper forms for passengers to fill out before landing, but this system was discontinued in April 2024 to make way for a digital system.

Thailand is reintroducing digital entry forms. Officials say this will facilitate the tracking of tourists and increase security. Concerns about criminal activity, including reports of kidnapping and human trafficking, have grown. Online registration allows authorities to more accurately track who is entering the country.

How will TM6 work online?

From May 1st, you must complete the free TM6 form online before your trip. This applies to all foreign travelers, regardless of whether they are entering Thailand by air, land, or sea.

The TDAC system will be available through several portals, including:

  • The Thai e-Visa system
  • The disease screening system of the Ministry of Disease Control
  • The Tourist Tax (TBD) system

    • Each of these systems can process your TDAC application and provide you with a digital copy of your TM6 form. You must present this form to the border official upon arrival; otherwise, you will be refused entry.

    Be sure to keep this digital TM6 card on your device and on an external storage device, ideally in the cloud. You will need it when you leave Thailand and for various other purposes if you are planning a longer stay, such as for your 90-day report or to extend your Thai visa.

    Thailand postpones tourism tax and electronic travel authorization (ETA)

    Thailand had planned to reintroduce a 300 baht tourism tax in 2025, intended to fund the development of tourism infrastructure and the financing of tourism insurance. However, authorities have decided to postpone the plan for the time being, as they want to focus on implementing the TM6 system before introducing any new fees.

    The Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system is also experiencing delays. The ETA is intended to screen visa-free travelers before their arrival, similar to the systems used in Europe and the US. However, Thailand is currently prioritizing the TM6 form and postponing other programs to ensure the TDAC system is operational when it becomes mandatory in May.

    How travelers can prepare for Thailand's updated entry requirements

    If you are flying to Thailand after May 1, 2025, please complete the online form TM6 via the TDAC system before boarding. The government assures that the process will be simple; however, as it is a new system, there may be some initial issues. Therefore, please complete this well in advance of your departure to avoid any difficulties at the airport in Thailand after a long flight.

    The good news: For now, you don't need to pay a tourism tax or apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). The implementation of these programs could take months or even a year, if it happens at all; the Thai government has made several statements on this matter. However, if the TM6 online system proves successful, the government could implement further improvements. Currently, the focus is on ensuring a smooth entry process for travelers.

    Travel to Thailand without worries

    Do you want to enjoy Thailand, the Land of Smiles, this year, but don't want to worry about entry requirements? Contact the Thai visa advisory team at Siam Legal – our experienced experts will take all your concerns off your hands.

    We offer professional visa advice and support with your visa application to ensure your trip to Thailand is smooth and stress-free. Let Siam Legal handle the bureaucratic hurdles so you can focus entirely on your holiday in paradise.