What documents do I need to travel to Thailand?
To enter Thailand you need a passport valid for 6 months and either a visa exemption (most Western travelers) or an approved visa on arrival.
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Entering Thailand - what you need
Thailand is one of the easiest countries to enter for tourism - millions of visitors go there every year. But the rules have changed in 2025: every traveler now needs to complete a digital arrival card online before they reach immigration.
- A passport valid for at least 6 months from your arrival date.
- A completed Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) submitted online before arrival.
- Proof of onward or return travel within your permitted stay period.
- A trip1 hotel booking confirmation or accommodation address.
- Proof of funds (10,000 THB per person, 20,000 THB per family).
Visa exemption versus visa on arrival
Citizens of 93 countries can enter Thailand visa-free for tourism for up to 60 days under the visa exemption scheme. This includes most Western, East Asian, and several Middle Eastern countries.
Travelers from a smaller group of countries (such as India and Saudi Arabia) can get a Visa on Arrival valid for 15 days. Travelers from countries not on either list must apply for a tourist visa in advance.
What is the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC)?
The TDAC replaced the paper TM6 form in May 2025. It is a free online declaration with your passport details, flight, and accommodation information. You must complete it within 3 days before arrival.
Once submitted you receive a QR code which Thai immigration scans on arrival. Without the TDAC you may be sent to a counter to complete it manually.
Hotel check-in in Thailand
Thai hotels must register foreign guests with local immigration within 24 hours of arrival - they handle this automatically. Bring your passport and trip1 booking confirmation to check-in.
What documents do I need to travel to Thailand - FAQ
Citizens of 93 visa-exempt countries can stay in Thailand for up to 60 days. You can extend once for an additional 30 days at an immigration office.
Yes. The TDAC is completely free and only available through the official Thai immigration website. Beware of scam sites charging fees.
Yes. Airlines and Thai immigration can ask for proof of onward travel before boarding or on arrival. Travelers without an onward ticket have been denied boarding.
Yes. You can extend a 60-day visa exemption by 30 more days at any Thai immigration office for a 1,900 THB fee.
Overstaying carries a fine of 500 THB per day (up to 20,000 THB max). Longer overstays can result in deportation and a ban from re-entering.
