UK Joins With US And EU To Face Thailand’s New Travel Rules: Almost One Million Brits At Risk of Harsh Penalties Under Digital Arrival Card And Visa Changes

As of May 1, 2025, all foreign nationals, including UK, US, and EU citizens, must adhere to new digital entry requirements when traveling to Thailand. This includes the completion of the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC), a mandatory online form designed to replace the paper-based TM6 entry card. The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has issued a stern warning for British travelers to ensure compliance, as failure to do so could result in harsh penalties, including detention, fines, and a possible ban on re-entry.

This new policy has the potential to affect approximately 800,000 UK nationals who visit Thailand annually, along with significant numbers of US and EU travelers. The FCDO has urged British passport holders to familiarize themselves with the updated entry procedures and avoid overstaying their visas, which could lead to severe consequences.

What Is the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC)?

The TDAC is a new digital entry form that travelers must submit online before arriving in Thailand. The form replaces the paper TM6 card that visitors would traditionally fill out on arrival. This transition to a digital format aims to streamline the immigration process, enhance security, and improve public health monitoring for all international visitors.

From May 1, 2025, travelers entering Thailand by air, sea, or land must complete this digital form at least 72 hours before their arrival. The form collects critical information, including:

• Personal Details: Full name, passport number, and nationality.
• Travel Information: Flight details, planned arrival date, and accommodation information in Thailand.
• Health Declarations: Information regarding any recent travel history, symptoms of illness, or exposure to infectious diseases.

The form is free to submit and can be completed on the official Thailand Immigration Bureau website at Travelers must complete this form to receive a digital confirmation that will allow them to pass through immigration.

Overstaying Your Visa: Serious Consequences for British, US and EU Travelers

The FCDO has also issued a warning regarding the significant consequences of overstaying a visa in Thailand. Visitors who stay beyond the period allowed by their visa or entry exemption could face severe penalties, including fines, detention, and deportation.

Key Penalties for Overstaying a Visa:

• Fines: Travelers who overstay their visa in Thailand face fines of 500 Thai Baht per day, up to a maximum of 20,000 Baht.
• Detention: Individuals found to have overstayed their visa may be detained in Thai immigration facilities, where conditions are often described as harsh.
• Deportation: Overstayers will be deported at their own expense, meaning they must pay for their return flight and may be banned from returning to Thailand for an extended period.
• Re-entry Ban: Depending on the severity of the violation, travelers may be banned from re-entering Thailand for up to 10 years.

The FCDO’s warning emphasizes that overstaying a visa is a serious offense, and British, US, and EU travelers should ensure they comply with the regulations to avoid these harsh consequences.

Visa Requirements for UK, US, and EU Nationals

Currently, UK, US, and EU passport holders can visit Thailand for up to 60 days without a visa for tourism, business, or urgent work purposes. This visa-exemption period can be extended for an additional 30 days, but only by applying for an extension while in Thailand. Travelers who wish to stay longer or are traveling for specific reasons such as work or study must apply for the appropriate visa before arrival.

It is essential for UK, US, and EU travelers to keep track of the dates on which their visas or visa exemptions expire to avoid overstaying their permitted stay. Visitors who intend to stay for more than 90 days, or those involved in work or study activities, should secure the proper visa before traveling.

The Risk to 800,000 UK Travelers

According to the FCDO, approximately 800,000 UK nationals visit Thailand annually. With the introduction of the new TDAC system and stricter visa enforcement, the risk of violations increases for those who are not familiar with the updated regulations. Failure to complete the TDAC or overstaying the visa could lead to unintended consequences such as detention and deportation, particularly for travelers who are unaware of the new entry requirements.

The FCDO’s travel advisory urges UK nationals to take action well before their travel date to ensure a smooth entry. Not only should they submit the TDAC form on time, but they should also double-check their visa status and ensure they understand the duration of their permitted stay.

Travel Warnings and Safety Advice

In addition to the new visa and entry requirements, the FCDO has provided several safety tips for British, US, and EU travelers in Thailand. These include:

• Security Concerns: While Thailand is generally safe for tourists, the FCDO advises against all but essential travel to certain areas, especially near the Malaysia border, due to ongoing security issues.
• Drug Laws: Thailand has stringent drug laws, and violations, including the possession or trafficking of cannabis, have led to the arrest of British nationals. It is crucial for travelers to understand and comply with local laws to avoid serious legal problems.
• Health and Safety: The FCDO recommends travelers to take necessary health precautions and stay informed about the latest health advisories, especially with regard to diseases like COVID-19, which may still have an impact on travel.

By adhering to local laws and staying informed, UK, US, and EU nationals can help ensure their safety while enjoying their time in Thailand.

Ensuring a Smooth Entry into Thailand

To avoid delays and complications upon entry, UK, US, and EU travelers should follow these steps:

1. Complete the TDAC Early: The Thailand Digital Arrival Card must be submitted at least 72 hours before arrival. Travelers should complete it well in advance to avoid last-minute issues.
2. Use the Official Website: Only use the official Thailand Immigration Bureau website to fill out the TDAC. Be cautious of third-party websites that might charge additional fees or misuse personal data.
3. Check Visa Requirements: UK, US, and EU nationals should verify their visa status and ensure they have the necessary documentation for their stay. Those planning to stay longer than 60 days or for non-tourist purposes must apply for the appropriate visa before traveling.
4. Stay Informed: Regularly visit the FCDO’s travel advice for Thailand for updates on entry requirements, safety information, and travel restrictions.
5. Respect Local Laws: To avoid legal trouble, British, US, and EU travelers should respect Thai laws, especially concerning drug-related offenses, public behavior, and local customs.

Conclusion

Thailand’s new entry requirements are a significant change for all travelers, including the 800,000 UK nationals who visit the country annually. The introduction of the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) and stricter visa enforcement highlights the importance of staying informed and complying with the country’s immigration laws.

Failure to complete the TDAC or overstaying a visa can lead to serious consequences, including fines, detention, and deportation. By following the guidelines set by the FCDO, UK, US, and EU nationals can ensure a smooth and trouble-free entry into Thailand while avoiding legal issues. Whether visiting for business, leisure, or urgent work, preparation and adherence to the new entry requirements will ensure a hassle-free experience.