Thailand Welcomes Indian Tourists with Visa-Free Entry and New Digital Arrival Card Rule from May 2025
In a move that promises to reshape travel plans for thousands of Indian tourists, Thailand has officially implemented a visa-free entry policy for Indian citizens starting May 1, 2025. This new rule allows Indian travellers to visit Thailand for up to 60 days for tourism or business without a visa. However, to streamline entry and enhance border control, the Thai government has also made the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) a mandatory prerequisite for all incoming visitors.
This dual-policy change—relaxing visa requirements while introducing a digital registration system—marks a significant shift in Thailand’s tourism strategy, especially at a time when many Indians are reconsidering domestic travel due to safety concerns in popular hill stations and tourist destinations.
TDAC: The New Digital Gatekeeper
Although visas are no longer needed, travellers are now required to submit the Thailand Digital Arrival Card at least three days before their scheduled arrival. This online form collects essential personal, travel, and health-related information, and is designed to simplify the entry process at immigration checkpoints across land, air, and sea borders.
The TDAC comprises three key sections:
Personal Details – Basic identification and contact information.
Trip and Accommodation Information – Details of your stay in Thailand.
Health Declaration – A brief medical self-assessment to ensure safe travel.
Once the form is completed, travellers receive a confirmation via email, which must be shown to immigration officers along with a valid passport and return ticket.
Essential Entry Requirements for Indian Tourist
To avail the visa-free stay, Indian travellers must ensure they have the following documents in hand:
A passport with at least six months of validity.
Confirmed return or onward tickets proving departure within the 60-day limit.
A completed and approved TDAC, submitted at least 72 hours before travel.
Thai immigration authorities have clearly stated that failure to produce any of these documents could result in denial of entry, despite the visa waiver.
Staying Longer? Here’s What You Need to Know
For those looking to extend their Thai getaway, there’s good news. Tourists can apply for a one-time extension of up to 30 days through Thailand’s Immigration Bureau. This must be done within the country before the initial 60-day stay expires. The process is relatively straightforward but requires proper documentation and a valid reason for the extension.
Thailand: A Preferred Getaway Amid Domestic Travel Woes
With rising concerns over safety in traditional Indian holiday destinations such as Kashmir, Manali, and parts of the Northeast, many Indian travellers are now turning to international getaways. Thailand, with its close proximity, affordability, and now visa-free access, has quickly become a preferred choice.
From the bustling markets of Bangkok to the serene beaches of Krabi and Phuket, Thailand offers something for every kind of traveller. The new visa-free policy, combined with the TDAC’s digital convenience, makes it easier than ever for Indians to plan spontaneous holidays abroad.
Travel Industry Sees a Surge in Bookings
Tour operators and airline companies are already reporting a rise in inquiries and bookings to Thailand from major Indian cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad. Experts believe this trend will continue as more Indians seek easy, safe, and value-for-money travel experiences abroad.
Travel analyst Rina Malhotra commented, “This move is a game-changer. The visa-free access removes a major hurdle, and the TDAC ensures that Thai authorities can still manage visitor data efficiently. It’s a smart balance of accessibility and control.”
Final Checklist for Indian Tourists Visiting Thailand (from May 1, 2025)
✅ Visa not required for stays up to 60 days
✅ Mandatory Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC), to be submitted online 3 days before travel
✅ Passport valid for at least 6 months
✅ Confirmed return ticket
✅ TDAC confirmation email to be shown at immigration
✅ Optional 30-day extension available through Thai Immigration Bureau
A Win-Win for Tourists and Thai Tourism
Thailand’s latest visa reform reflects a broader shift toward digital travel facilitation, allowing for enhanced efficiency while maintaining security. For Indian tourists, it offers both freedom and flexibility. For Thailand, it’s a step toward reviving and strengthening its tourism industry with one of its largest visitor groups.
As regional instability affects domestic travel choices for Indians, Thailand’s openness and preparedness could set the tone for future international travel norms in Southeast Asia.
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