Thailand Visa 2025: Complete Guide to Types, Procedures, and Practical Advice

Thailand 2025: New Entry Rules, Visas, ETA and TDAC – The Complete Guide

In 2025, Thailand has thoroughly modernized its entry procedures. The result: simpler processes but also new mandatory formalities to know before traveling.

Key updates include:

• Visa exemption extended to 60 days

• Introduction of the ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) from June 2025

• Requirement to fill out the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) online from May 1, 2025

1. Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) – Mandatory since May 2025

What is the TDAC?
The Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) is a mandatory digital form that all foreign travelers must complete within 72 hours before arriving in Thailand.

This card replaces the old paper TM6 form and streamlines immigration while enhancing national security.

Who must fill it out?

✅ All foreign travelers (tourists, business travelers, residents, etc.)
❌ Exceptions:

• Thai nationals

• Transit travelers not passing through immigration

• Holders of Border Passes for certain border areas

When and how to fill out the TDAC?

• Deadline: within 72 hours before arrival

• Takes less than 10 minutes

• Official website: tdac.immigration.go.th

• Accessible via smartphone, tablet, or computer

Required information:

• Identity (name, nationality, passport, etc.)

• Travel details (flight, purpose, mode of transport)

• Accommodation in Thailand

• Vaccination status (notably for yellow fever)

• Email address (to receive confirmation)

After submission:
You will receive a digital document to present at immigration. It is recommended to print it or save it on your phone.

⚠️ It is possible to fill out the TDAC upon arrival at kiosks (e.g., Bangkok), but this may cause delays.

2. Thailand ETA – Electronic Authorization from June 2025

Who is it for?
All visa-exempt nationals must apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before departure.

This concerns most European countries, including France, for stays under 60 days.

How to apply?

• Website to monitor: thaievisa.go.th (official portal pending)

• 100% online process

• Separate from the TDAC

3. Thailand E-Visa – For stays over 60 days

Who is it for?

• Non-exempt nationalities

• Long-term stays

• Specific visas: tourism, studies, work, retirement, digital nomad, etc.

Where to apply?

Official portal: thaievisa.go.th

Often required: passport, photo, financial proof, insurance

Passports, Validity, and Entry Procedures for Thailand

To enter Thailand, every traveler must present a valid passport, with at least six months’ validity after the entry date. This rule applies to tourists, residents, and holders of residence permits in another country. A photocopy of the passport is often required when applying for a visa or upon arrival.

Passport validity is essential: an expired or soon-to-expire document can result in denied boarding or entry. It is therefore recommended to check the expiration date before booking a flight or applying for a visa.

Applying for a Thailand Visa: Types, Procedures, and Documents

To stay in Thailand beyond the exemption period (60 days for French nationals and many others), you must apply for a visa suited to your stay’s duration and purpose: tourism, business, studies, work, transit, etc.

Visa applications are made at Thai consulates or embassies. You must fill out the official form, provide a recent ID photo, a photocopy of your biometric passport, proof of flight reservation, financial proof, and sometimes an invitation letter. Visa fees vary by type.

For short stays, the tourist visa allows up to 60 days, extendable by 30 days locally. For longer stays (long-stay visa, DTV visa, non-immigrant visa), validity and conditions differ by applicant status and visa type.

Schengen Visa from Thailand: For Whom, How, and What Are the Conditions?

Thai nationals or foreign residents in Thailand wishing to travel to the Schengen area must apply for a Schengen visa at the consulate of the main destination country.

This visa allows stays up to 90 days within 180 days in the Schengen area.

To obtain this visa, you must present a valid passport, fill out the consular form, provide a photo, a round-trip flight reservation, proof of accommodation, travel insurance, and, if necessary, proof of resources. Schengen visa holders must respect the authorized stay and leave the Schengen area before the visa expires.

Staying in Thailand: Short Stay, Extension, and Exit

For stays under 60 days, French nationals and many others do not need a visa but must present a valid passport and a flight ticket proving departure within the permitted timeframe. To extend a stay, you can request an extension at local immigration offices.

Note: Exceeding the authorized stay results in a fine and may jeopardize future visa applications. Upon exit, it is recommended to keep a photocopy of your visa or entry stamp, useful for checks or future applications.

Tips for Visa Applicants and Travelers

• Always check your passport’s validity before traveling.

• Carefully complete the visa application form and prepare all documents: passport copy, financial proof, flight reservation, ID photo.

• For tourist or short-stay visas, respect the maximum allowed days.

• If traveling to multiple countries, check each destination’s consular requirements.

• Residents in another country must present their residence permit when applying for a visa.

• For any Schengen or Thai visa application, contact the competent consulate or embassy.

Types of Visas for Thailand: Tourism, Business, Studies, Long Stay

• Tourist visa (TR): For 60-day stays, extendable by 30 days.

• Multiple-entry tourist visa: For travelers wishing to enter and exit several times over 6 months, each stay not exceeding 60 days.

• Non-immigrant visa (B, O, ED, OA, DTV): For work, studies, family reunification, or long-term stay.

• Transit visa: For travelers in transit.

• E-visa: Online application possible for most nationalities.

• Schengen visa: For Thais or foreign residents wishing to travel to Europe.

Is a biometric passport required to enter Thailand?
A valid, machine-readable passport is required. A biometric passport is recommended.

How many days can I stay in Thailand without a visa?
60 days for French nationals and many others, provided you show a flight ticket proving exit from the country.

Where to apply for a Thailand visa?
At consulates, embassies, or online via the Thai e-visa portal.

What documents are required for a visa application?
Valid passport, completed form, photo, flight reservation, financial proof, passport copy, invitation letter if needed.

Can I extend my stay locally?
Yes, a 30-day extension is possible for tourist visas and exemptions.

Can a resident in Thailand apply for a Schengen visa?
Yes, at the consulate of the destination country in the Schengen area, presenting their passport, residence permit, and required documents.

Other Procedures & Embassies

For special cases or visas not eligible for e-visa:
Consult the Thai embassy or consulate in your country.

Practical Tips for Entering Thailand in 2025

• Passport valid at least 6 months after entry

• Return or onward ticket recommended

• Health insurance required for some visas (retirement, long stay)

• Recommended vaccines: hepatitis A, typhoid, Japanese encephalitis, rabies

Official Links to Know

• TDAC (Digital Arrival Card): tdac.immigration.go.th

• ETA (Travel Authorization): eta-thailand.com (to monitor)

• Thailand E-Visa: thaievisa.go.th

• Thai Embassy (France): thaiembassy.fr

• Official advice (France): diplomatie.gouv.fr

Express FAQ

Do I need a visa for less than 60 days?

No, unless your country is not exempt. ETA is mandatory from June 2025.

Can I fill out the TDAC at the airport?

Yes, but it is strongly discouraged: fill it out online before departure.

Can I extend a 60-day stay?

Yes, a 30-day extension is possible in Thailand (maximum 90 days total).

What documents are required upon entry?
Passport, TDAC, return ticket. Sometimes, a printed copy can be useful.

What vaccines are required?
None are mandatory, except for travelers from yellow fever risk areas.

What are the visa requirements for foreigners entering Thailand?
Visa requirements depend on your nationality, the purpose of your visit, and the length of your stay. Some travellers benefit from a visa-waiver, while others must apply for an entry visa in advance. Always check the latest visa information from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or the nearest consulate-general.

What is a visa-on-arrival and who is eligible?
A visa-on-arrival allows eligible foreigners to obtain a travel visa at the port of entry in Thailand. The list of eligible countries and the maximum stay can change, so verify current policies before travel.

Can I get a business visa or a student visa for Thailand?
Yes. Business visas and student visas are available for those with the appropriate supporting documents, such as a letter of invitation from a Thai company or educational institution, proof of itinerary, and financial evidence.

How long does visa processing take?
Processing time varies by visa type and consulate. For most nonimmigrant visas, allow at least 5–10 working days. Online visa applications may have different processing times.

What travel documents do I need to apply for a Thai visa?
You will need a valid passport (or other recognized travel document), completed application form, supporting documents (such as itinerary, proof of accommodation, and letter of invitation if required), and payment of the visa fee.

Where can I get a visa for Thailand?
You can apply at a Thai embassy, consulate-general, or through official online visa services. Some travellers may also apply for a visa-on-arrival or use the online visa-waiver system if eligible.

Are diplomatic and official passport holders subject to the same visa requirements?
Diplomatic and official passport holders may benefit from special waivers or expedited issuance, depending on bilateral agreements. Check with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or your home-country’s embassy for details.

What is a visitor visa and how is it different from a business or student visa?
A visitor visa (tourist visa) is for travellers visiting Thailand for leisure or short-term visits. Business and student visas require specific supporting documents and are intended for work or study purposes.

Do I need to provide a letter of invitation?
A letter of invitation may be required for certain visa categories, such as business, student, or residency visas. It should come from an entity or person in Thailand and include relevant details about your visit.

What are the visa fees and how do I pay them?
Visa fees vary by type and nationality. Fees are usually paid at the time of application, either online or at the consulate. Some visas are stamped directly into your travel document upon issuance.

Can I apply for a Thai visa online?
Yes, Thailand offers online visa services for many visa types. Check the official e-visa portal for eligibility and application procedures.

What happens if my visa is denied or delayed?
If your visa is denied, you will be informed of the reason. Delays can occur if supporting documents are missing or incomplete. Always apply well in advance of your planned entry into Thailand.

Is residency in Thailand possible through a visa?
Long-term residency requires specific visas and supporting documents. Nonimmigrant visas can sometimes be extended or converted, but permanent residency has its own requirements and procedures.