Thailand is set to implement new entry regulations for foreign travelers, including tourists from Belarus, starting May 1, 2025. The Consulate of Thailand has announced that all foreigners, regardless of their method of crossing the border—be it by air, land, or sea—will be required to complete a Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) prior to their entry into the country.
This new online system aims to replace the traditional paper forms (TM6) and is part of a broader effort to streamline and digitize immigration control in Thailand. However, it is crucial to note that the TDAC is not a visa; the existing requirements for visas, which include both airport and electronic visas, will remain unchanged.
To fill out the TDAC, travelers must visit the official immigration website no later than three days before their arrival in Thailand. The form must be completed in English and will require personal information such as full name, passport details, and contact information, alongside trip-related data including flight number, purpose of visit, and accommodation address in Thailand. Additionally, a health declaration must be included.
Once the application is submitted, users must download the TDAC document and present it to immigration officials upon arrival, either in electronic format or as a printed copy. It is important to emphasize that without a completed TDAC, entry into Thailand will not be permitted.
The consulate has also mentioned that Belarusian travelers can seek assistance in completing the TDAC directly at the representative office. This support aims to alleviate any confusion regarding the new requirements.
In conjunction with the introduction of the TDAC, significant changes to the visa application process will also take effect in 2025. The previous method of obtaining visa stickers will be replaced with an e-visa system. Applications for visas under the old regulations at the Thai Consulate in Minsk were officially closed on December 19, 2024, while the visa center in Moscow ceased processing under the old system on December 23, 2024.
The changes are part of Thailand's ongoing efforts to modernize its immigration processes, making it easier for tourists to visit while ensuring that health and safety measures are adhered to. This move comes at a time when the tourism sector is recovering from the impacts of the pandemic, with countries around the world seeking to attract foreign visitors.
As the Thai government prepares for the influx of tourists expected in the coming months, these new regulations are designed to ensure a smooth and efficient entry process. Travelers are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the new requirements to avoid any last-minute issues that could hinder their travel plans.
In summary, starting May 1, 2025, all foreign nationals entering Thailand must complete a Digital Arrival Card, a mandatory step that reflects the country's commitment to enhancing its immigration control systems. The TDAC will replace traditional paper forms, but the visa application process remains unchanged, with the introduction of e-visas marking a significant shift in how travelers will obtain permission to enter the country.
As this date approaches, it is essential for travelers to stay informed about these changes and ensure they comply with all requirements to enjoy a hassle-free visit to Thailand.
