Thailand will abolish the ETA system and introduce a digital arrival card (TDAC) for visa-free tourists in 2025. Find out who needs the new card, how to apply, its validity period and the main changes to entry rules

Thailand is changing its entry rules for tourists. Instead of the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), which was planned to be introduced at the end of 2024, the country is switching to a digital arrival card (TDAC). The system will start operating from mid-2025 and will become mandatory for most visa-free travelers.

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From ETA to TDAC: why did they change the system?

Initially, the Thai government was preparing to launch the ETA system, which was supposed to strengthen immigration control and meet global digital standards. However, due to delays and additional initiatives, including the planned 300 baht tourist tax, this format was abandoned.

The new TDAC system combines the ideas of the ETA and the tourist tax in one solution, simplifying entry and ensuring more effective control over tourist flows.

We talked about the electronic visa to Thailand earlier.

What is TDAC?

Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) is an electronic card that must be issued before traveling. It does not replace a visa, but is a digital permit for preliminary verification of travelers' data. Therefore, representatives of visa-requiring countries: Turkmenistan, Moldova, etc. must obtain a visa before traveling.

Key features

- Who must apply: citizens of 93 countries with a visa-free regime (Ethiopia, Tajikistan, etc.). The exception is residents of Laos, Cambodia and Malaysia.

- Who is not required: holders of long-term and diplomatic visas, but the authorities advise filling it out for them as well.

- Validity period: single entry up to 60 days with the possibility of extending for another 30 days.

- Application: online through an integrated platform that is integrated with the Thai e-visa system.

- Cost: free, but later the card can be combined with a tourist fee (300 baht).

- Guaranteed entry: obtaining a TDAC does not mean automatic entry - the final decision is made by border guards.

How will TDAC change travel to Thailand?

Previously, tourists from visa-free countries could simply arrive with a passport. Now, obtaining a TDAC will become a mandatory part of preparing for a trip - on a par with booking a flight or hotel.

Advantages

- faster passport control;

- minimum paper documents;

- greater protection against exceeding the permitted period of stay.

Disadvantages

- additional preparation stage;

- the need to monitor changes in the rules, especially if a tourist tax is introduced.

Replacing ETA with TDAC is part of a broader strategy

The introduction of TDAC is just one step in Thailand’s tourism modernization strategy. In 2024, the country has already expanded the list of countries with visa-free entry, and now seeks to combine comfort for guests with enhanced border control.

The ETA has been completely abolished, and the Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) will become the new standard for most foreigners traveling to Thailand from 2025. It will be free, electronic, and mandatory for short-term trips.

Travelers should follow official announcements from the Thai government and check the current requirements before traveling - as the rules may change depending on the adoption of the tourist tax.

Planning a trip abroad, but do not know the current rules for entering the country? Contact experienced migration lawyers who will help you find out the rules and requirements, prepare all the documents, go through the visa procedure and avoid common mistakes.

Reminder! From May 1, 2025, Thailand has introduced a Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) for all foreign travelers. We have already told you what TDAC is and how it will replace the paper TM6 form, what are the benefits of this system, who needs to fill out the card and when exactly it should be done.

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