Are you preparing for your trip to Thailand? Here's everything you need to know about entry requirements: passport, visa, TDA, length of stay, and important rules.
Passport – mandatory condition
- Valid passport at least 6 months after the entry date
- Minimum 1 blank page
Possible refusal of boarding if non-compliant
Exit permit
- May be requested at boarding or on arrival
- You must prove you are leaving Thailand
Tip: Flexible or temporary ticket if you haven't planned yet
Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDA)
What is it?
Le TDA Thailand Digital Arrival Card is a digital entry form that replaces the old paper form.
TDAC: the mandatory form before arriving in Thailand
From 2025, foreign travellers will need to complete the TDAC (Thailand Digital Arrival Card) before arriving in Thailand. This online form will gradually replace the old paper immigration cards. It is recommended to fill it out a few days before departure via the Official TDAC Guide to avoid any problems upon arrival.
Is it mandatory?
- Yes, for the majority of travellers
- To be filled in before arriving in Thailand
Information requested
- Passport details
- Flight number
- Address in Thailand
- Length of stay
Tip: Do it 48 to 72 hours before your departure
Thailand Visa – Length of Stay
Visa exemption (most common case)
- Stay permitted: 30 days
- Valid in many European countries
- Potential for expansion +30 days on site
Tourist visa
- Duration: 60 days
- Extension possible : +30 days
Ideal if you stay longer
Extension of stay
- Things to do at an immigration office
- Cost: approximately £900
Overstay
- Fine 500 THB per day
- Can lead to sanctions (blacklist)
👉 Tip: never exceed
On arrival in Thailand: formalities
Steps:
- Immigration control
- Stamp in the passport
- Baggage reclaim
- Customs
To be presented if requested
- Passport
- Return ticket
- Hotel booking
Important rules to know
- Do not work on a tourist visa
- Observe the authorised duration
- Always keep a copy of your passport.
- Declare certain items if necessary
Special cases
Long stay
- Specific visa required (long-term tourism, education, retirement...)
Multiple entries
- Possible with a suitable visa
- Otherwise, exit = new entry
Border crossing (visa run)
- Allowed, but increasingly controlled
To be avoided if used excessively
Practical advice
- Do a Paper and digital copy of passport
- To have a hotel address for arrival
- To prepare your documents in advance
- Check the rules before departure (they are changing)
A question about the formalities for Thailand?
Visa, TDAC, length of stay, passport, insurance or necessary documents: rules can change depending on your nationality and type of travel. If in doubt before you leave, do not hesitate to consult our page Contact to obtain practical information and advice to help you prepare for your arrival in Thailand more smoothly.
FAQ – Thailand Formalities
Do you need a visa for Thailand?
Not for a short stay (30 days depending on nationality).
Is the TDA mandatory?
Yes, in the majority of cases.
Can one extend their stay?
Yes, 30 additional days.
What happens in case of exceeding the limit?
Fine and risks for future travel.
