If Thailand is on your travel radar this year, there’s a new rule you should know before you pack your bags.
Starting May 1, 2025, all foreign travellers — including those from Singapore — will need to fill out a digital arrival card before entering the country.
Yup, no more scribbling on those blue-and-white TM6 paper forms during your flight. Thailand is going digital, and here’s what that means for you.
What Is This New Digital Arrival Card?
Think of it as Thailand’s way of modernising the immigration process. Instead of filling out the traditional arrival form by hand, you’ll now complete it online — either through a website or a mobile app.
The digital arrival card asks for the usual info:
- Your full name and nationality
- Passport number
- Flight or travel details
- Purpose of visit
- Where you’re staying in Thailand
Once you’ve submitted everything, you’ll get a QR code. That’s what you’ll show the immigration officer when you land in Thailand — simple as that.
Who Needs to Fill This In?
If you’re not a Thai citizen, you’ll need to do this — whether you’re coming in by plane, land, or sea. So yes, even if you’re just crossing over from Malaysia or Laos, this applies to you.
Singaporeans, Malaysians, Australians, Europeans — all travellers are included. Even if you don’t need a visa, the digital arrival card is still required.
When and Where Do I Fill It Out?
You’ll need to complete the form before your arrival in Thailand, and it’s best to do it at least 72 hours in advance to avoid any hiccups.
You can fill it out through:
- The official Thai Immigration website, or
- The Thai E-Arrival Card app (available for iOS and Android)
Once you’re done, take a screenshot or save the QR code on your phone. You’ll need it when you land.
What Happens If I Forget?
Let’s say you land in Bangkok and haven’t filled in the digital arrival card. What then?
Well, you won’t be denied entry — but you’ll probably get pulled aside at immigration to complete the form on the spot. That could mean longer queues, especially during busy travel seasons.
To avoid the stress, just do it ahead of time. It takes less than 10 minutes.
Why Is Thailand Doing This?
Good question. The digital arrival card is part of Thailand’s broader effort to modernise its tourism and immigration systems. By collecting data digitally, they can:
- Speed up the immigration process
- Reduce human error
- Improve security and border control
- Make life easier for travellers and officers alike
It’s also more eco-friendly — say goodbye to all those paper forms!
Flying from Singapore? Here’s What to Do
If you’re flying out of Changi Airport, you’ll likely see reminders about this new requirement. Singaporeans have always enjoyed easy travel to Thailand — no visa, no fuss — but this new step is something you’ll now need to factor in.
Before your trip:
- Fill in the digital arrival card online
- Screenshot or print the QR code confirmation
- Keep it handy for immigration when you land
Quick FAQs
Do I need to do this every time I visit Thailand?
Yes, you’ll need to fill out a new digital arrival card for each trip.
Is there a fee?
Nope — filling out the card is free of charge.
What if I change my flight or hotel after submitting?
You’ll likely need to update your submission. Keep an eye on the official website for edit options.
Where can I find the form?
Check the Thai Immigration site or download the Thai E-Arrival Card app on your phone.
Helpful Links
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