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Tag: Thailand immigration

  • Thailand Visa Run 2025: Secondary Inspection on a Second 60-Day Exemption

    Thailand Visa Run 2025: Secondary Inspection on a Second 60-Day Exemption

    I just got back into Thailand on a second 60-day visa exemption, and this time my arrival at Suvarnabhumi Airport wasn’t the smooth process I’ve been used to. Instead, I was pulled into secondary inspection, questioned by three different officers, and asked for all kinds of proof before I was finally stamped in.

    Since a lot of travelers wonder if back-to-back exemptions or short visa runs to Thailand still work in 2025, I thought I’d share exactly what happened to me.

    My Timeline This Year

    • First stay: June 5 – August 2, 2025 (60-day exemption)
    • Quick trip: 3 days in Mumbai, India
    • Return: August 5, 2025, hoping for another 60-day exemption at Suvarnabhumi
    Suvarnabhumi airport Bangkok

    What Happened at Suvarnabhumi Immigration

    When I got back, the line I joined had an officer who was already giving a Burmese traveler a tough time—25 minutes of questioning, raising her voice, and shouting at the rest of us in the queue to move forward. Most people behind me quickly switched lines, but I stayed put.

    When it was my turn, she flipped through my passport and immediately asked:

    • “Why are you back?”
      → I told her I was here on holiday to see my wife.
    • “You were here for 2 months.”
      → I said yes.
    • “When do you go back?”
      → I answered September 31.

    She pressed a button, a red light flashed, and another officer came over. He asked me the same questions again and then said, “Please come with me.” That’s when I knew I was headed for secondary inspection.

    Secondary Inspection: Step by Step

    The first officer there wanted to know if my wife was Thai. I said no, she’s Indian and works as a teacher here. He asked to see her visa. I called her on a video call, but he quickly put his hand over my phone camera and said “no video.” So I had to pull up a copy of her visa instead.

    Then another officer took me to a desk. She gave me a form to fill out and again asked to see my wife’s visa. She asked where I’d be staying, and I explained I had a Nok Air flight booked to Sakon Nakhon. That seemed to make her relax a little—she even smiled.

    Next she asked if I had a return ticket and money. I told her I did, and I wrote down how much I had in my account. After about half an hour of back and forth, she finally stamped me in and gave me until October 4, 2025.

    What I learned from this

    Honestly, the whole experience surprised me. I’ve been coming to Thailand almost every year during summer vacation, usually staying 2–3 months before heading back to Uzbekistan where I teach ESL. From 2008 until 2023, I even worked at a school in Thailand, and in all those years I never had anything like this happen.

    This time, though, it was obvious they were watching my travel pattern closely. Coming back just three days after spending two months here looked too much like a visa run, even though I’ve got a steady job abroad and wasn’t planning to stay longer than my holiday.

    I think immigration wanted to be absolutely sure I wasn’t trying to live in Thailand long-term on visa exemptions. That’s why they asked about my wife, my return flight, where I’d be staying, and even how much money I had access to.

    In the end, I was lucky—I got in. But it was a reminder that things are stricter in 2025 than in past years.

    Advice for anyone planning a visa run

    If you’re considering a second 60-day exemption or a short visa run, here’s what I’d tell you based on my experience:

    • Expect extra questions – they will notice if you just spent a long stretch here.
    • Have documents ready – onward ticket, proof of funds, accommodation details, anything that shows you’re a genuine visitor.
    • Stay calm in secondary inspection – it feels intimidating, but the officers were professional once I cooperated.
    • Know the risks – frequent visa-exempt entries can raise red flags, even if your intentions are legitimate.

    FAQs About Visa Runs and 60-Day Exemptions

    Can You Get Two 60-Day Exemptions in Thailand in 2025?

    Yes, it’s possible—I just did it. But it’s not guaranteed. Immigration officers review your travel history carefully, and if they think you’re abusing the system, they can deny entry.

    What Happens at Secondary Inspection in Suvarnabhumi Airport?

    Secondary inspection is a deeper check. They may ask why you’re returning, how long you plan to stay, where you’ll be staying, and whether you have funds and onward travel. In my case, they also wanted proof of my wife’s visa.

    Do You Need Proof of Funds for Thailand Visa Exemption?

    Yes. Officially it’s 20,000 baht per person (or the equivalent in cash/accessible funds). I was asked to write down how much I had in my account, but others have been asked to show actual cash.

    Is a Return Ticket Required for Thailand Visa Exemption?

    Yes. Immigration almost always asks for proof of onward travel. Having a ticket out of Thailand is essential.

    Are Visa Runs Risky in 2025?

    Yes, more than before. Immigration is stricter, especially if they see repeat entries close together. If you plan to stay longer, applying for a proper tourist or non-immigrant visa is safer than relying on repeated exemptions.

    Second 60 day visa exemption after secondary inspection
    Second 60 day visa exemption after secondary inspection

    Finally stamped in!

    In the end, I was stamped in until October 4th, and I’ll enjoy my time here before heading back to Uzbekistan. But my experience at Suvarnabhumi shows that Thailand visa runs in 2025 aren’t as straightforward as they used to be. If you’re relying on exemptions for longer stays, just know that secondary inspection is a real possibility now.

    Have you had a similar experience at Thai immigration recently? Share your story in the comments—I’d love to hear how others handled it.

    Don’t forget to fill in your Thailand digital arrival card at the official immigration site for TDAC

  • New Thailand Arrival Procedures May 2025: Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC)

    New Thailand Arrival Procedures May 2025: Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC)

    If you’re planning a trip to Thailand after May 1, 2025, there’s a new arrival procedure you need to know about: the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC). Starting May 1, this digital system will replace the old paper TM6 form—remember that blue-and-white card we used to scramble to fill out on the plane, hunting for a pen before reaching immigration? The TDAC aims to modernize the process, but it’s already sparking questions among travelers. Let’s break down what the TDAC is, how it works, and what you need to do to ensure a smooth entry into Thailand. Plus, we’ve got links to official resources to help you prepare.

    What Is the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC)?

    The Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) is a new online system replacing the paper TM6 immigration form, which was suspended in 2022 for air travelers and 2024 for land and sea entries. Starting May 1, 2025, all foreign travelers entering Thailand—whether by air, land, or sea—must submit the TDAC before arrival. This applies to everyone, regardless of visa status, with two exceptions:

    • Foreigners transiting or transferring in Thailand without passing through immigration.
    • Foreigners entering with a Border Pass.

    The TDAC collects the same kind of information the TM6 did: your passport details, arrival and departure dates, accommodation in Thailand, and a few broad questions about your background (like occupation and purpose of travel). These details help Thai authorities track tourism trends and enhance security, without invading your privacy. The goal? Streamline entry procedures, reduce paperwork, and improve the travel experience—though some travelers are already calling it a step backward to the old TM6 days.

    For more details, check out the official TDAC information page: tdac.in.th.

    New Thailand arrival procedures - TDAC Thailand digital arrival card

    When and How to Submit the TDAC

    Here’s the key thing to remember: if you’re arriving in Thailand on or after May 1, 2025, you must submit the TDAC at least 3 days before your arrival, including the day of arrival. This gives immigration enough time to process and verify your information. You can submit earlier—say, 4 or 5 days before—to be safe.

    The submission process is designed to be user-friendly (or so they say). Here’s how it works:

    1. Visit the Official TDAC Website: Head to tdac.immigration.go.th to submit your TDAC. You can also update your information there if needed.
    2. Choose Your Submission Type: You can submit as an individual or as a group (handy for families or travel buddies).
    3. Fill Out the Form: Provide your personal details (name, passport number, nationality, date of birth, occupation, etc.), trip information (arrival/departure dates, flight numbers, mode of transport), accommodation details (hotel name, province, district), and a health declaration (e.g., recent travel history, yellow fever vaccination status, or symptoms of certain diseases).
    4. Submit and Save Your Confirmation: After submitting, you’ll receive a QR code and an arrival card number. Save or print this confirmation—you’ll need to show it at immigration.
    5. Keep It Handy: The TDAC is valid for one-time use on your specified arrival date, so you’ll need to submit a new one for each trip to Thailand.

    The form is available in multiple languages, including English, German, French, Spanish, Japanese, Korean, Chinese, Russian, and more, making it accessible for most travelers. If you don’t speak any of these languages, you might need assistance from a friend or travel agent.

    What Information Do You Need to Provide?

    The TDAC form mirrors the old TM6 but in digital format. You’ll need to provide:

    • Personal Details: Full name, passport number, nationality, date of birth, gender, occupation, and contact info.
    • Trip Details: Arrival and departure dates, flight numbers, mode of transport (air, land, sea), and purpose of travel.
    • Accommodation: Where you’re staying in Thailand (hotel name, province, district). If you’re in transit, you can select “I’m a transit passenger.”
    • Health Declaration: Countries you’ve visited in the last 2 weeks, yellow fever vaccination status, and any symptoms of specified diseases.

    Once submitted, you’ll get a QR code to present at immigration. You can also use the QR code to update certain details later, though key info like your name, passport number, nationality, and date of birth can’t be changed. If those details need updating, you’ll need to submit a new TDAC application.

    Benefits of the TDAC (According to Thai Authorities)

    The Thai government highlights several perks of the TDAC system:

    • Faster Immigration Processing: Less paperwork means quicker clearance at airports and borders (though some travelers are skeptical about this).
    • Reduced Administrative Burden: No more scrambling for a pen on the plane!
    • Update Flexibility: You can update most details before travel if plans change.
    • Enhanced Data Accuracy and Security: Digital submission reduces errors and improves tracking for public health purposes.
    • Eco-Friendly: A paperless system is more sustainable.
    • System Integration: The TDAC connects with Thailand’s E-Visa system, disease control databases, and tourist fee collection mechanisms for a smoother experience.

    But does this mean the TM30 form (the one your hotel submits to report your stay) will be phased out? There’s no clarity yet, and some worry the TDAC might just add duplication to the process.

    Limitations and Things to Watch Out For

    While the TDAC promises convenience, there are some limitations:

    • Non-Editable Fields: You can’t update your full name, passport number, nationality, or date of birth after submission.
    • English Only: All details must be entered in English, which could be tricky for some travelers.
    • Internet Required: You’ll need online access to submit the form, and the system might get sluggish during peak travel seasons.
    • Smartphone Dependency: If you don’t have a smartphone, the process could be challenging—though immigration officers and self-service kiosks at entry points can assist.

    There’s also confusion about how strictly the TDAC will be enforced. Will airlines check for it at boarding, or will you only need it at Thai immigration? The process isn’t fully clear yet, but it’s wise to submit it in advance to avoid delays.

    How to Prepare for the TDAC

    To ensure a stress-free arrival in Thailand after May 1, 2025:

    • Submit your TDAC at least 3 days before your trip via tdac.immigration.go.th.
    • Double-check your details before submitting, especially non-editable fields like your passport number.
    • Save or print your QR code confirmation—keep it on your phone and as a backup in case of tech issues.
    • If you’re unsure, check the official TDAC info site at tdac.in.th for updates, videos, and FAQs. You can also sign up for email notifications there to stay informed.
    • Join online communities like the Thai Visa Advice Facebook groups for traveler tips and discussions (links available on the TDAC info site).

    Is the TDAC Really a Step Forward?

    The TDAC is being touted as a modern solution, but some travelers see it as a digital rehash of the old TM6—a process we thought we’d left behind. Back in 2019, Thailand’s biggest tourism year, we all managed to fill out those paper forms despite the hassle. So, while the TDAC might feel like a step back in convenience, it’s not much different from what we’ve dealt with before. It’ll likely take just 5–10 minutes to complete, as long as you do it in advance.

    Still, the lack of clarity around implementation has sparked debate. Some travelers, as seen in online forums, are optimistic—“No more forgetting to wake up for the TM6 cards!”—while others worry about the digital divide for those without smartphones or reliable internet. Either way, the TDAC is here to stay, and it’s something we’ll need to get used to in this era of tighter global travel regulations.

    Final Thoughts on Thailand’s New Arrival Procedures

    The Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) is a mandatory step for all foreign travelers starting May 1, 2025. While it aims to streamline entry and enhance security, it’s not without its quirks. To avoid surprises, submit your TDAC at least 3 days before your trip, keep your QR code handy, and check for updates on tdac.in.th. For the actual submission, head to tdac.immigration.go.th.

    We’d love to hear your thoughts—have you tried the TDAC yet, or are you dreading the new process? Drop a comment below, and don’t forget to subscribe to Thaibahts.org for more Thailand travel tips. Safe travels, and see you in the Land of Smiles!