Thailand has revolutionized its arrival process with the introduction of the Digital Arrival Card, replacing the traditional paper-based TM6 form that travelers had to complete on flights or at airport counters. This modernization effort, part of Thailand's push toward becoming a digital tourism hub, allows visitors to submit their arrival information online before even boarding their flight to the Land of Smiles.
The Thailand Digital Arrival Card system streamlines immigration processing at all major entry points, including Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang airports, Phuket International Airport, and Chiang Mai International Airport. By pre-registering your arrival details electronically, you can breeze through immigration while others wait in longer queues filling out paper forms or correcting errors at the last minute.
This comprehensive guide walks you through everything you need to know about Thailand's Digital Arrival Card system in 2026, including step-by-step completion instructions, what information you'll need, common mistakes to avoid, and tips for ensuring the smoothest possible entry into Thailand. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a frequent traveler to Thailand, understanding this system will save you time and reduce stress upon arrival.
What is the Thailand Digital Arrival Card?
The Thailand Digital Arrival Card is an electronic pre-arrival system managed by the Immigration Bureau of Thailand. It collects essential traveler information that was previously gathered through the paper TM6 arrival/departure card. This digital transformation represents Thailand's commitment to modernizing its tourism infrastructure and providing a more efficient, contactless experience for international visitors.
The system captures your personal details, passport information, flight details, accommodation in Thailand, and purpose of visit. Once submitted, your information is linked to your passport electronically, allowing immigration officers to access your data instantly when they scan your travel document. This integration significantly reduces processing time compared to manual data entry from paper forms.
Thailand's immigration authorities introduced this system as part of broader digitalization efforts accelerated during the pandemic period. The goal was not only to reduce physical contact points but also to improve data accuracy, enhance security screening capabilities, and create a more streamlined experience for the millions of tourists who visit Thailand each year. The system has proven so successful that paper forms are now largely being phased out at major international airports.
Thailand Digital Arrival Card Quick Facts
Cost: Completely FREE
Submission window: Up to 72 hours before arrival
Processing: Instant confirmation
Printing: Not required - electronic only
Validity: Single entry
Required for: All foreign visitors
Completion time: 5-10 minutes
History of the TM6 Form: From Paper to Digital
For decades, the TM6 form was a familiar sight for anyone traveling to Thailand. These distinctive white and blue arrival/departure cards were distributed on flights and at immigration counters, requiring travelers to fill in their personal details, passport information, flight number, and accommodation address. The departure portion was stamped and kept in your passport, to be collected when leaving Thailand.
The paper TM6 system served Thailand well for many years, but it had notable limitations. Forms were often filled out incorrectly, causing delays at immigration. Handwriting was sometimes illegible, leading to data entry errors. The physical cards could be lost, damaged, or forgotten. And the manual processing of millions of forms annually required significant resources from immigration staff.
Thailand began piloting digital alternatives in the early 2020s, with the full digital system rolling out progressively across major airports. The transition was accelerated by the need for contactless processing during the global health situation. Today, while paper forms may still be available as backup at some entry points, the digital system is the primary and preferred method for submitting arrival information.
The evolution from the paper TM6 to the Digital Arrival Card represents more than just a technological upgrade. It's part of Thailand's broader smart tourism initiative, which aims to use technology to enhance visitor experiences while improving border security and data management. The system now integrates with biometric verification and other security measures, creating a more comprehensive yet streamlined entry process.
Thailand
Capital: Bangkok
Currency: Thai Baht (THB)
Language: Thai
Timezone: UTC+7 (ICT)
Processing: Instant
Quick Facts
- Digital Arrival Card: FREE
- Submit: Up to 72 hours before arrival
- Processing: Instant
- Paper TM6: Being phased out
Who Needs to Complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card?
The Thailand Digital Arrival Card is mandatory for ALL foreign nationals entering Thailand through international airports. This requirement applies regardless of your nationality, visa status, or purpose of visit. Whether you're entering visa-free, with a visa on arrival, or with a pre-approved visa or e-Visa, you must complete the digital arrival form.
- Visa-exempt visitors from 93+ countries entering for tourism
- Visa on Arrival recipients from eligible countries
- Holders of Thailand e-Visas or embassy-issued visas
- Work permit and business visa holders entering Thailand
- Students entering on education visas
- Transit passengers who will pass through Thai immigration
- Visitors entering through land borders and seaports
- Returning long-term residents without Thai citizenship
Thai citizens are exempt from this requirement and use different systems for re-entry. Permanent residents may have streamlined options depending on their status. Diplomats and certain official travelers may have alternative procedures, though most still benefit from using the digital system.
Transit passengers who remain in the international transit zone without passing through Thai immigration do NOT need to complete the Digital Arrival Card. However, if you're planning to leave the airport during a layover - even briefly - you must complete it before clearing immigration.
Important: Complete Before Arrival
While backup paper forms may be available at some airports, the digital system is now the standard expectation. Arriving without a pre-submitted Digital Arrival Card may result in longer processing times as you'll need to complete an electronic form at airport kiosks. We strongly recommend submitting your information online before departure.
Information Required for the Digital Arrival Card
Before starting your Thailand Digital Arrival Card submission, gather all the necessary information. Having everything ready will make the process quick and error-free. Here's what you'll need:
- Valid passport with at least 6 months validity from entry date
- Passport number, issue date, expiry date, and issuing country
- Full name exactly as it appears on your passport
- Date of birth and gender
- Nationality and country of residence
- Flight number and airline name
- Departure city and arrival date in Thailand
- Thai accommodation address (hotel name and full address)
- Contact phone number (Thai or international)
- Email address for confirmation receipt
- Purpose of visit (tourism, business, etc.)
- Intended length of stay in Thailand
- Visa information (if applicable)
Preparation Tips
Have your passport, flight confirmation email, and hotel booking open while completing the form. The system may time out after a period of inactivity, so having all information ready ensures a smooth submission. If staying with friends or family, get their full address in advance - Thai addresses can be long and specific.
How to Complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card: Step-by-Step Guide
Completing the Thailand Digital Arrival Card is straightforward when you follow these steps. The entire process takes about 5-10 minutes and can be done on any device with internet access - smartphone, tablet, or computer.
- Access the official portal - Visit the Thailand Immigration Bureau's official Digital Arrival Card website. Avoid third-party sites that may charge unnecessary fees for this free service.
- Select your language - The form is available in multiple languages including English, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, and Thai. Choose your preferred language for easier completion.
- Enter personal information - Provide your full name exactly as shown on your passport (including middle names if any), date of birth, gender, and nationality.
- Add passport details - Enter your passport number carefully, along with the issue date, expiry date, and country that issued your passport. Double-check these details as errors can cause issues at immigration.
- Provide contact information - Enter a valid email address (for confirmation) and a phone number where you can be reached in Thailand. International numbers work fine.
- Input flight details - Enter your airline name, flight number, departure city, and expected arrival date and time in Thailand.
- Add accommodation details - Provide your hotel name and complete address, or the residential address if staying with friends/family. Thai addresses should include the district (Amphoe) and province.
- State purpose of visit - Select your primary reason for visiting Thailand (tourism, business, transit, etc.) and your expected length of stay.
- Enter visa information - If you have a visa, select the visa type and provide details. If entering visa-free, select the appropriate option.
- Review all information - Carefully check every field before submission. Errors in passport numbers or names can cause delays at immigration.
- Submit and save confirmation - Submit the form and save your confirmation. Screenshot it or save the email confirmation you receive.
- Keep confirmation accessible - While not always checked, having your confirmation readily available on your phone ensures you're prepared for any questions at immigration.
Airport-Specific Information: Bangkok, Phuket, and Chiang Mai
Thailand has several international airports, each with its own characteristics and procedures. Understanding what to expect at your arrival airport helps ensure a smooth entry experience.
Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK)
Suvarnabhumi is Thailand's main international gateway, handling the majority of international arrivals. The airport features modern immigration facilities with dedicated lanes for Digital Arrival Card holders. After deplaning, follow signs to Immigration, where you'll find clearly marked lanes. E-gates may be available for certain passport holders from participating countries.
Peak arrival times at Suvarnabhumi are typically early morning (flights from Europe arriving) and late night (flights from East Asia). The Digital Arrival Card significantly reduces your processing time regardless of when you arrive, but completing it in advance is especially valuable during busy periods.
Bangkok Don Mueang Airport (DMK)
Don Mueang primarily serves low-cost carriers and some regional flights. While smaller than Suvarnabhumi, it processes millions of arrivals annually. Immigration facilities are modern and Digital Arrival Card submissions are fully integrated. The airport can get particularly busy with arrivals from China and other Asian countries on budget airlines.
Phuket International Airport (HKT)
Phuket airport has undergone significant expansion to handle the island's growing tourism. The international terminal features efficient immigration processing with full Digital Arrival Card integration. Given Phuket's popularity, immigration queues can be substantial during high season (November to February). Pre-completing your Digital Arrival Card is highly recommended for Phuket arrivals.
Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX)
Chiang Mai airport serves northern Thailand and handles international flights from across Asia. While smaller than Bangkok's airports, it fully supports the Digital Arrival Card system. The airport provides a more relaxed arrival experience compared to Bangkok, but completing your digital form in advance is still the best practice.
Thailand International Airports Comparison
| Airport | Code | Location | Typical Wait Time | E-Gates |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Suvarnabhumi | BKK | Bangkok (East) | 15-45 minutes | Available |
| Don Mueang | DMK | Bangkok (North) | 10-30 minutes | Limited |
| Phuket | HKT | Phuket Island | 20-60 minutes | Available |
| Chiang Mai | CNX | Northern Thailand | 10-25 minutes | Limited |
| Krabi | KBV | Southern Thailand | 10-20 minutes | No |
| Samui | USM | Koh Samui | 10-15 minutes | No |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even with a straightforward system, certain mistakes can cause delays or complications. Here are the most common errors to avoid when completing your Thailand Digital Arrival Card:
- Name mismatch: Enter your name exactly as it appears on your passport, including any middle names. Even minor differences can cause the system to not match your submission to your passport.
- Passport number errors: Double-check your passport number - one wrong digit means your submission won't be found. Note: some passports have a letter at the start of the number.
- Wrong arrival date: Make sure to enter your arrival date in Thailand, not your departure date from home. Account for time zone differences and flights that cross midnight.
- Incomplete accommodation address: Provide the full hotel name and address. 'Hotel in Bangkok' is not sufficient - immigration needs a specific, verifiable address.
- Leaving fields blank: Complete all required fields. Partial submissions may not be processed or may cause issues at immigration.
- Using third-party sites: Some websites charge fees for this free service and may not properly submit your information. Always use official channels.
- Submitting too early: Submissions are valid for 72 hours before arrival. Submitting earlier may mean your information is no longer in the active system when you arrive.
- Not saving confirmation: Always screenshot or save your confirmation email. While usually not needed, it's good to have if there are any system issues.
Critical: Passport Details Must Match Exactly
The most common cause of issues at immigration is a mismatch between your Digital Arrival Card submission and your passport. Always verify that your name, passport number, date of birth, and nationality exactly match your travel document. When in doubt, copy information directly from your passport rather than typing from memory.
Common Myths About Thailand's Digital Arrival Card
Several misconceptions persist about Thailand's Digital Arrival Card system. Let's separate fact from fiction:
You can skip the Digital Arrival Card if you have a valid Thailand visa or e-Visa
The Digital Arrival Card and visa are separate requirements. Your visa (or visa-free status) grants permission to enter Thailand, while the Digital Arrival Card provides your arrival information to immigration. Both are required regardless of visa type. Think of the visa as your permission to enter and the Digital Arrival Card as your arrival notification - you need both.
You must print your Digital Arrival Card confirmation to show at immigration
No printing is required. The system is fully electronic and your submission is linked to your passport number. Immigration officers access your information digitally when they scan your passport. Your confirmation email is just for your records and as backup - in practice, officers rarely ask to see it. Save it to your phone just in case.
What Happens After Arrival
Understanding the immigration process at Thai airports helps you know what to expect and ensures a smooth entry:
- Deplane and follow signs: Follow 'Immigration' or 'Passport Control' signs to the arrivals hall. The walk can be significant at larger airports like Suvarnabhumi.
- Join the correct queue: Look for lanes marked 'Foreign Passport' or 'Visitors'. Some airports have dedicated lanes for Digital Arrival Card holders or e-gate users.
- Approach the counter: When called, present your passport to the immigration officer. They will scan it and access your Digital Arrival Card information automatically.
- Answer any questions: Officers may ask about your purpose of visit, accommodation, or length of stay. Answer honestly and briefly.
- Biometric verification: You may be photographed and fingerprinted as part of standard procedures.
- Receive entry stamp: Once cleared, you'll receive an entry stamp showing your permitted stay duration.
- Proceed to baggage claim: After immigration, collect your luggage and proceed through customs.
- Customs declaration: If you have items to declare, use the red channel. Otherwise, proceed through the green 'Nothing to Declare' channel.
Pro Tip: Save Time with E-Gates
Some Thai airports offer automated e-gates for certain passport holders. If your nationality is eligible, you may be able to use these faster lanes. Check the eligibility list on your arrival or look for signage directing eligible travelers to e-gate lanes. Even with e-gates, completing your Digital Arrival Card in advance is required.
Correcting Mistakes and Updating Information
If you discover an error in your Digital Arrival Card submission or your travel details change, here's what to do:
- Before arrival: Simply submit a new Digital Arrival Card with the correct information. The system will use your most recent submission linked to your passport number.
- Changed accommodation: If your hotel changed after submission, submit a new form with the updated address before arrival.
- Flight changes: If your flight number or arrival date changed, submit an updated form with the new details.
- At the airport: If you notice an error upon arrival, you can typically complete a new submission at airport kiosks or inform the immigration officer, though this may cause delays.
- Multiple submissions allowed: There's no penalty for multiple submissions. Always submit a new form rather than arriving with incorrect information.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Thailand Digital Arrival Card the same as the TM6 form?
How much does the Thailand Digital Arrival Card cost?
How early can I submit my Thailand Digital Arrival Card?
What if I forget to complete the Digital Arrival Card before my flight?
Do children need their own Digital Arrival Card?
Can I use my international phone number on the form?
What should I put if I'm staying in multiple hotels during my trip?
Is the Digital Arrival Card required for land and sea border crossings?
Will my Digital Arrival Card be valid if my flight is delayed?
Do I need a new Digital Arrival Card if I leave and re-enter Thailand?
Planning Your Thailand Trip
The Thailand Digital Arrival Card is just one component of preparing for your Thai adventure. Here's a quick checklist to ensure you're fully prepared:
- Check visa requirements for your nationality using our visa checker
- Ensure passport has 6+ months validity and blank pages
- Complete Thailand Digital Arrival Card within 72 hours of arrival
- Book accommodation and have confirmation ready
- Arrange proof of onward travel (flight, bus, or train out of Thailand)
- Prepare proof of funds if requested (20,000 THB per person)
- Consider travel insurance for your trip
- Download offline maps and useful apps
- Inform your bank of travel plans to avoid card blocks
- Check current entry requirements for any health-related documentation
Ready to Visit Thailand?
Conclusion
Thailand's Digital Arrival Card system represents a significant improvement over the old paper TM6 forms, making entry into the Land of Smiles smoother than ever. By completing your digital form in advance, you'll save valuable time at immigration and start your Thai adventure with less stress.
Remember the key points: submit your Digital Arrival Card within 72 hours of arrival, double-check that all information matches your passport exactly, have your accommodation address ready, and save your confirmation just in case. With these simple preparations, you'll breeze through Thai immigration and be on your way to exploring Bangkok's temples, Phuket's beaches, or Chiang Mai's mountains in no time.
Thailand continues to be one of the world's most welcoming destinations for travelers, and the streamlined digital arrival process is just one example of the country's commitment to tourism excellence. Whether it's your first visit or your fiftieth, proper preparation ensures the smoothest possible start to your Thai journey.
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Comments(12)
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Just used this guide for my trip to Bangkok last week. The Digital Arrival Card was super easy to complete on my phone before my flight. Immigration at Suvarnabhumi took less than 10 minutes - much faster than my last trip when I had to fill out paper forms!
Great comprehensive guide! One thing I'd add - make sure you have mobile data or airport WiFi sorted before landing in case you need to pull up your confirmation. The officers at Phuket asked to see mine.
I'm confused - do I need both a visa AND this arrival card? I'm from the US and planning a 2-week vacation.
Flew into Chiang Mai last month. The immigration process was surprisingly smooth with the digital form. Much smaller airport than Bangkok so even faster processing. The old TM6 paper cards are definitely being phased out.
Warning: I accidentally put my departure city as my home city instead of where I was actually flying from (had a layover). Had to clarify at immigration. Make sure you enter the actual city you're departing from to Thailand!
Does anyone know if this works at land borders? Planning to enter from Cambodia at Aranyaprathet.
Traveling with my family of 4 next month. Just confirming - I need to submit 4 separate forms, one for each person including my kids (ages 8 and 12)? Or can I do a group submission?
Pro tip from frequent Thailand visitor: Complete the form right after you finish packing, when you have your passport out and your trip details fresh in mind. I do it the night before every trip now - takes 5 minutes and one less thing to worry about.
Arrived at Don Mueang at midnight on a packed Air Asia flight. Even at that hour, the digital arrival card made things so much faster. Saw people in the next line scrambling to fill out paper forms while I walked right through!
What happens if I submitted the form but my accommodation changed after? I booked a different hotel yesterday but already submitted my arrival card.
This guide saved me from a headache! I was about to pay $20 on some random website to 'assist' with my Thailand arrival card. Didn't realize it was completely free on the official site. Thanks for the warning about third-party sites!
Just returned from 3 weeks in Thailand - Bangkok, Phuket, and Chiang Mai. The digital form worked perfectly at all airports. Only took paper form to fill out at Chiang Mai as backup but they didn't even look at it. The future is digital!