Thailand Visa Policy Changes in 2025: Everything You Need to Know
With tourism rebounding and digital travel evolving, Thailand Visa Policy Changes 2025 bring a modernized approach to entry rules.
Thinking of visiting Thailand in 2025? ETAs and Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) are mandatory. You’ll need to know how they work. You can stay compliant and make your arrival seamless with this comprehensive guide, which covers everything from visa exemptions to digital nomad visas.
What’s New in 2025?
To balance tourism growth with security, Thailand has implemented key digital reforms in immigration:
- ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization): From June 2025, all visa-exempt travelers must register online before arrival.
- Thai Digital Arrival Card (TDAC): Mandatory from May 1, 2025 for all foreigners entering Thailand via air, land, or sea. Paper form TM6 is replaced by this form.
- E-Visa System Expanded: Fully operational as of January 2025 for pre-arranged visas.
- Visa Exemption Stay Extended: From now on, tourists from 93 countries will be able to stay for up to 60 days (instead of 30).
Options for entry in 2025
1. 60-Day Visa Exemption.
Thailand allows citizens from 93 countries to enter without a visa for tourism or short business trips. The stay can be extended once for 30 more days at a local immigration office for 1,900 Thai baht.
Are you eligible?
Region-by-region:
- There are 26 countries in the Asia-Pacific region: Australia, Japan, India, South Korea, Singapore, China, Malaysia, etc. (Most get 60 days; some get 30 or 14 days.)
- There are 44 countries in Europe: UK, France, Germany, Italy, Russia, Turkey, etc.
- There are 14 countries in the Americas: the United States, Canada, Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Mexico, etc.
- The Middle East (7): UAE, Qatar, etc.
- Africa (2) : South Africa, Morocco.
Specified Requirements:
- Valid 6 month passport
- Onward travel proof
- Fund proof: 10,000 THB per person or 20,000 THB per family
- A proof of accommodation is required
- Registration ETA (from June 2025)
Note: There is a limit of two entries per year on land or by sea (unlimited for Malaysians).
2. Visa on Arrival (15 days)
It is ideal for short spontaneous trips. It is available to 31 nationalities, including those from India, China, and Eastern Europe.
Detailed requirements include:
- Valid passport for at least 30 days
- Form VOA or e-VOA completed
- Passport photo (4×6 cm)
- Ticket for return flight
- (10,000 THB per person) Proof of funds
- Booking a hotel
- Payment: 2,000 THB (in cash, Thai Baht only)
3. Visas pre-arranged (for restricted countries)
The Thai Embassy or e-Visa portal requires that citizens from countries not covered by the visa-exempt or visa-open category apply in advance. These include Nigeria, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Iran, and North Korea.
A few common requirements are:
- Valid passport valid for 6+ months with 2 blank pages
- Form and photos for visa application
- Proof of financial stability
- Details about accommodation and flights
- Fees for different types of visas vary
Types of Thailand Visas Explained
Visa for Tourists (TR)
- Single Entry: During the 3-month validity period, you can stay for up to 60 days (extendable).
- METV (Multiple Entry): Valid for 6 months, with a maximum stay of 60 days per visit.
Visas for non-immigrant
- (B) (Business/Work): For business meetings or employment.
- A (Others): For dependents, volunteers, and spouses of Thai citizens.
- OA/OX (Retirement): For those over 50 who meet financial criteria.
- ED (Education): Studying, internships, or training.
- Media (M): For journalists, filmmakers, etc.
New Destination Thailand Visa (DTV)
- Designed for digital nomads, cultural visitors, and remote workers.
- Expires after 5 years, allows 180 days per stay, extendable.
- Proof of remote work or enrollment in Thai programs is required, as well as financial proof of 500,000 THB.
Visa for Elites
- Five-to-20-year premium long-stay visa with VIP perks.
- The fees range from $25,000 to $60,000.
Visa for Long-Term Residents (LTR)
- Suitable for investors, high-income professionals, or retirees.
- Offers tax benefits, fast-track services, and simplified reporting, but requires investment or a high income.
Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) – Required by May 2025
In place of the TM6, the TDAC is now required for all foreign nationals entering Thailand.
What You Need:
- Within 72 hours of your arrival, apply online
- Details about personal travel and recent country visits
- Show a QR code at immigration (digital or printed)
Who Is Exempt from?
- Citizens of Thailand
- Passengers on transit
- Holders of border passes at specific crossings
Tip: Avoid immigration delays by submitting your TDAC early and keeping the confirmation handy.
Thailand Visa Costs in 2025 (Approx)
| Visa Type | Fee (USD) |
|---|---|
| VOA (15 days) | $60 + e-VOA fee |
| Tourist Visa (TR) | $40–$200 |
| Non-Immigrant Visas | $80–$400 |
| DTV (5-year visa) | $400 (flat fee) |
| Elite Visa (5–20 years) | $25,000–$60,000 |
| LTR Visa (10 years) | $1,500 + investment |
You may need to pay an additional fee if you want your documents certified, processed quickly, or translated.
FAQs About Thailand Visa Policy
Conclusion
Traveler convenience and national security are both prioritized in Thailand’s updated visa policies in 2025. ETA, TDAC, and e-Visa systems have made the process more digital and streamlined.
Thailand offers a wide range of visa options to suit your needs, whether you’re a casual tourist, a digital nomad, or planning a long-term stay. Make sure to plan ahead, keep your documents in order, and stay on top of changes.
