Travelling to Thailand in 2025? Don’t Miss These New Travel Rules
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If Thailand is your dream summer destination for 2025, make sure you're up to speed with the latest travel rules. Starting May 2025, the Thai government is tightening visa requirements — and skipping a key document could derail your plans.
You’ll also need the usual documents, including:
These rules are already active in Thai embassies in countries like the US, France, and Norway — and more locations are expected to follow.
Citizens of 93 countries, including India, can still enjoy visa-free entry for stays up to 60 days. But this may soon change. Thai authorities are reportedly considering shortening this to 30 days, though nothing is official yet. It’s a heads-up for anyone planning a longer holiday.
Introducing the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC)
From 1 May 2025, all foreign visitors — regardless of visa status — must complete the new Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC). This online registration must be done at least three days before arrival and is aimed at simplifying border checks.
What About Visa on Arrival?
Visa on Arrival (VoA) is still an option, but it comes with strings attached. Thai immigration officers can demand financial proof at the border, and enforcement is expected to be stricter moving forward.
Why the Sudden Shift?
The relaxed pandemic-era travel rules are being phased out in favour of stronger immigration control. While these new measures aim to reduce visa misuse and overstays, they could complicate things for spontaneous travellers or those without easy access to banking records.
If you’re travelling to Thailand after May 2025, prepare well in advance. Whether you need a visa or not, proof of funds and the Digital Arrival Card will be crucial for a smooth journey.
Proof of Funds Is Back
After pausing financial proof requirements in late 2023 to revive tourism, Thailand is now bringing them back. If you're applying for a tourist visa, be prepared to show that you have access to at least 20,000 Thai Baht (around USD 550 or EUR 510). You can do this by submitting:- Bank statements from the last three months
- A valid sponsorship letter
You’ll also need the usual documents, including:
- A passport valid for at least 6 months
- A recent passport-size photo
- Proof of residence (like a utility bill or lease)
- Confirmed return flight tickets
- Hotel bookings or host details
These rules are already active in Thai embassies in countries like the US, France, and Norway — and more locations are expected to follow.
Visa-Free Entry Still Exists – But for How Long?
Citizens of 93 countries, including India, can still enjoy visa-free entry for stays up to 60 days. But this may soon change. Thai authorities are reportedly considering shortening this to 30 days, though nothing is official yet. It’s a heads-up for anyone planning a longer holiday.
Introducing the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC)
From 1 May 2025, all foreign visitors — regardless of visa status — must complete the new Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC). This online registration must be done at least three days before arrival and is aimed at simplifying border checks. What About Visa on Arrival?
Visa on Arrival (VoA) is still an option, but it comes with strings attached. Thai immigration officers can demand financial proof at the border, and enforcement is expected to be stricter moving forward. Why the Sudden Shift?
The relaxed pandemic-era travel rules are being phased out in favour of stronger immigration control. While these new measures aim to reduce visa misuse and overstays, they could complicate things for spontaneous travellers or those without easy access to banking records. If you’re travelling to Thailand after May 2025, prepare well in advance. Whether you need a visa or not, proof of funds and the Digital Arrival Card will be crucial for a smooth journey.
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