Find out what new rules for traveling to Thailand will come into effect in 2026: the tourist tax, the TDAC digital arrival card, changes to visa policy, the “New Thailand” strategy and even the Tomorrowland festival. A guide for those planning a trip to Thailand in 2026

Starting in 2026, Thailand is preparing to significantly update the rules for foreign tourists. The innovations are aimed at increasing safety, improving tourism infrastructure and developing sustainable tourism. The government of the Kingdom seeks to make travel more comfortable, modern and profitable for both travelers and the country itself.

In this article, we will consider the main changes that await tourists in the near future.

Before traveling to Thailand, take out reliable travel insurance that covers medical expenses, lost luggage and other unforeseen situations. Protect yourself and travel with peace of mind - even in the most remote corners of the Kingdom.

A tourist tax in Thailand of 300 baht will become mandatory

One of the most discussed innovations is a tourist tax of 300 baht (approximately 8-9 US dollars). It is scheduled to be implemented in mid-2026. The funds raised will go towards infrastructure development, tourist insurance and supporting local communities.

This fee will be charged to all visitors, regardless of whether they arrive by plane, ship or land transport. The goal is to ensure the sustainable development of the tourism industry without compromising Thailand’s attractiveness as one of the world’s top destinations.

TDAC digital arrival card replaces paper TM6

Starting May 1, 2025, everyone traveling to Thailand must fill out a TDAC digital arrival card (Thailand Digital Arrival Card).

We have already told you what TDAC is and how it will replace the paper TM6 form, what benefits this system provides, who needs to fill out the card and when exactly it should be done.

The electronic form is submitted three days before arrival and has completely replaced the old paper TM6. TDAC contains basic information about the tourist, the flight and even medical data. It has accelerated the passage of control and made the immigration process more convenient.

The innovation is part of the large-scale digitalization of Thailand's border services.

New rules for obtaining a visa to Thailand

In 2026, the Thai government plans to update its visa policy, simplifying conditions for foreigners. The main changes:

- Visa-free regime: citizens of 93 countries, including Ukraine and India, can stay in Thailand for up to 60 days without a visa, with the possibility of extending for another 30 days.

- Visa on arrival (VOA): available for 31 countries, allows a stay of up to 15 days, costs 2,000 baht.

- Electronic visa (e-Visa): now completely online - without the need to visit embassies or consulates.

These changes are designed to make traveling to Thailand easier and more comfortable in 2026.

Thailand has reinstated the requirement to prove financial capacity to obtain a tourist visa in 2025. Read here how much money is required, what documents to submit and who the new rule applies to.

Tourism Strategy “New Thailand”

From 2026, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is launching the “New Thailand” concept, which focuses on quality, not quantity, of visitors.

The goal of the strategy is to develop sustainable tourism, support local communities and promote cultural routes and eco-destinations. The government wants to attract tourists who are looking for a deeper acquaintance with culture, authenticity and meaningful travel.

Free tickets for selected tourists

To stimulate international tourism, Thailand plans to introduce a program of free air tickets for certain categories of travelers from 2026. Details are still being finalized, but the initiative is targeting popular markets like Europe, India, and China.

The program will be a joint effort between the government, airlines, and tour operators to make travel to Thailand more affordable.

Tomorrowland in Thailand: The main event of 2026

For the first time, the legendary Tomorrowland festival will be held in Thailand - at Wisdom Valley, Chonburi, in late 2026. The country has signed a five-year agreement to host the event, and the government is investing 2 billion baht in infrastructure development.

This will be a huge step for the development of music and cultural tourism in the region.

Tips for tourists planning a trip to Thailand in 2026

- Check the validity of your passport (minimum 6 months).

- Fill out the TDAC digital card in advance.

- Be prepared to pay a tourist tax of 300 baht.

- Purchase medical insurance for the period of your trip.

- Follow the updates on visa rules on official websites.

The new rules for traveling to Thailand in 2026 make the country even more open, digitalized and attractive for tourists. At the same time, the authorities are striving to protect the natural and cultural heritage, making the vacation not only comfortable, but also responsible.

So, if you are planning your next trip to Thailand, it is time to start preparing now.

Planning a trip in 2026? Get the Travel Guide from Visit World

Download our Travel Guide to learn about entry regulations, visa requirements, work and tourism opportunities in different countries around the world.

The guide will help you prepare for your trip without unnecessary hassle and will make your travels safe and comfortable.

Reminder! Countries in different parts of the world are becoming more open to each other, citizens are gaining the right to visa-free entry to states in other regions, as a result of which ties are strengthening and passenger traffic is increasing. We have already told you which passports topped the Henley Passport Index 2025, which countries rose in the ranking, and which lost positions in global mobility.

Photo – Freepik

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