Digital Arrival Card Thailand: Complete Guide to Avoid Scams & Fill It Correctly

If you're planning a trip to Thailand, you'll need to complete the Thailand Arrival Card—officially known as the TM6 form. While this might sound like just another bureaucratic hurdle, understanding how to properly complete this document can save you significant time at immigration and help you avoid falling victim to one of the many scam websites charging unnecessary fees.

Thailand has made this process increasingly streamlined with the introduction of the Digital Arrival Card system, but confusion still exists about what's required, where to go, and how to avoid the numerous fake websites that prey on unsuspecting travelers. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the Thailand Digital Arrival Card in 2025.

What is the Thailand Arrival Card (TM6)?

The Thailand Arrival Card, officially designated as the TM6 form, is a mandatory immigration document that all foreign visitors must complete before or upon entering Thailand. This form collects essential information about your visit, including your personal details, accommodation information, and the purpose of your stay.

Purpose of the Arrival Card

The TM6 form serves several important functions for Thai immigration authorities:

• Entry documentation: Records your arrival and intended stay in Thailand
• Accommodation tracking: Captures where you'll be staying during your visit
• Statistical data: Helps government track tourism and visitor patterns
• Security purposes: Maintains records for national security and public safety
• Departure tracking: Historically included a departure card (though this requirement has been removed for most travelers)

Digital vs. Paper Forms

Thailand's immigration system has evolved to accommodate modern travelers:

Digital Submission (Recommended):

• Complete online before your flight
• Faster processing at immigration
• Reduces paper waste and waiting times
• Available 24/7 from anywhere in the world
• Automatically stored in immigration systems

Paper Forms:

• Available on flights to Thailand
• Can be completed at the airport
• Useful backup if you haven't pre-registered
• Takes longer to process at immigration
• Still widely accepted at all entry points

The Official Thailand Arrival Card Website

This is perhaps the most critical information in this guide: the official Thailand Digital Arrival Card system is completely FREE.

Official Website Information

Important: The only legitimate website for Thailand's official immigration services is operated by the Thai Immigration Bureau. However, as of 2025, there is NO requirement to pay any fees for submitting your arrival card information online.

How to Identify Official Thai Government Websites

When searching for the arrival card form online, look for these indicators of legitimate Thai government websites:

Legitimate Domain Indicators:

• .go.th domain extension (all Thai government websites)
• HTTPS secure connection
• Official Thai government logos and seals
• Thai and English language options
• No payment processing for basic arrival card submission
• Clear contact information for Thai Immigration Bureau

Warning Signs of Scam Websites:

• Requests for payment to "process" your arrival card
• Professional-looking websites with .com, .net, or .org domains
• Urgent language pressuring you to "register now"
• Prices ranging from $10-$50 USD for "fast-track" processing
• Claims of "official partner" or "authorized service provider" status
• Excessive advertising or pop-ups
• Poor grammar or translation errors

Common Scams to Avoid

Unfortunately, the Thailand arrival card system has become a target for scammers who create convincing fake websites to charge unsuspecting travelers for services that should be free.

The "Official-Looking" Website Scam

How it Works: Scammers create professional websites that appear to be official Thai government sites. They rank highly in search results for "Thailand arrival card" or "Thailand TM6 form online" and charge fees ranging from $15-$50 USD to "process" your arrival card.

Red Flags:

• Any website charging money for basic arrival card submission
• Websites that appear at the top of Google ads (marked with "Sponsored")
• Claims of "expedited processing" or "VIP immigration service"
• Requirements to provide credit card information
• Promises of "guaranteed approval" or "skip the line" services

Reality Check: The arrival card is a free, mandatory document. There is no paid "fast-track" option—everyone completes the same form.

The Email Confirmation Scam

How it Works: After you complete a form on a scam website and pay their fee, you receive an official-looking email confirmation. However, this confirmation has no value with actual Thai immigration authorities.

What Actually Happens:

• You've paid for a service that should be free
• The "confirmation" you received isn't recognized by Thai immigration
• You may still need to complete the actual arrival card
• Your personal and financial information has been compromised

The Airport "Helper" Scam

How it Works: Upon arrival at Bangkok airports or other Thai entry points, individuals approach confused-looking tourists offering to "help" them complete immigration forms for a fee.

Red Flags:

• Anyone approaching you offering paid assistance with forms
• Claims that you need "special documents" or "fast-track service"
• Pressure to pay in cash immediately
• Unofficial-looking identification or no identification at all

The Truth: Thai immigration counters have staff who can assist with forms for free. There's also plenty of signage in English, and the forms are straightforward.

How to Complete the Thailand Arrival Card: Step-by-Step Guide

Now that you know what to avoid, let's walk through the legitimate process of completing your Thailand arrival card correctly.

When to Complete the Arrival Card

You have several options for completing the TM6 form:

Before Your Flight (Recommended):

• Less stress and more time to be accurate
• Familiarity with the form before arrival
• Can reference documents and information at home
• Faster processing at immigration

During Your Flight:

• Cabin crew usually distribute forms
• Gives you something to do during the flight
• Still allows you to arrive with completed form
• Make sure to have all necessary information available

At the Airport:

• Forms available at immigration areas
• Should be your backup option
• Creates longer wait times
• More rushed and prone to errors

Required Information and Documents

Before starting the form, gather the following information:

Personal Information:

• Full name (as shown in passport)
• Passport number
• Nationality
• Date of birth
• Gender
• Occupation

Travel Information:

• Flight number or transportation method
• Departure country/city
• Purpose of visit (tourism, business, etc.)
• Intended length of stay

Accommodation Details:

• Name of hotel, hostel, or residence
• Full address in Thailand
• Contact phone number

Additional Information:

• Email address
• Emergency contact information (sometimes required)

Step-by-Step Instructions for the Digital Form

Whether you're completing the form online or on paper, the process follows these steps:

Step 1: Personal Details Section

Full Name:

• Enter exactly as shown on your passport
• Use capital letters if completing paper form
• Include middle names if shown on passport
• No nicknames or variations

Passport Information:

• Passport number (double-check for accuracy)
• Issuing country
• Date of birth
• Gender as shown on passport

Occupation:

• Use general categories (Engineer, Teacher, Retired, etc.)
• If unemployed or student, state clearly
• Self-employed individuals can list their profession

Step 2: Travel Details

Flight/Travel Information:

• Flight number (e.g., TG123, QR835)
• If arriving by land, indicate border crossing point
• Departure city/country

Purpose of Visit:

• Tourism (most common for visitors)
• Business (if attending meetings or conferences)
• Other (education, medical, etc.)

Intended Length of Stay:

• Be realistic and align with your visa type
• Tourist visas: typically 30-60 days
• DTV visa holders: can indicate longer periods
• Must not exceed your visa validity

Step 3: Accommodation Information

This section often causes the most confusion, but it's straightforward:

First Hotel/Accommodation:

• Official name of hotel, hostel, or Airbnb
• Complete address including district
• Phone number (can use hotel's main number)

Important Notes:

• You only need to provide your FIRST accommodation
• If plans change later, that's fine
• Having a confirmed booking helps but isn't always verified
• For multiple locations, just list where you're staying first

Step 4: Contact Information

In Thailand:

• Your mobile number if you have Thai SIM
• Hotel phone number is acceptable
• Some forms accept foreign mobile numbers

Email Address:

• Use a reliable email you check regularly
• May receive confirmation or immigration notices
• Write clearly if completing paper form

Step 5: Review and Submit

Before Submitting:

• Review all information for accuracy
• Ensure passport number is correct
• Verify accommodation address is complete
• Check all dates and flight numbers

Submission:

• Digital: Submit online and save confirmation
• Paper: Keep form with passport documents
• Don't fold or damage paper forms

Special Considerations for Different Visa Types

Tourist Visa Holders

• Purpose: Tourism
• Length of stay: Match your visa validity (typically 60 days)
• Accommodation: First hotel is sufficient
• Straightforward process with no additional requirements

DTV Visa Holders

For those of us holding the Thailand DTV (Destination Thailand Visa), there are some specific considerations:

• Purpose of visit: Can state "Tourism" or "Remote Work"
• Length of stay: You can indicate your full 180-day stay
• Accommodation: First address is fine—you don't need to list all 180 days
• Additional documents: Have your DTV visa readily accessible

If you're considering applying for a DTV visa to work remotely from Thailand, our comprehensive Thailand DTV visa guide provides everything you need to know about eligibility, application process, and making the most of this innovative visa program.

Business Visa Holders

• Purpose: Business
• May need invitation letter accessible (not for arrival card, but for immigration questions)
• Accommodation: Company guesthouse or hotel address
• Keep business documents ready for potential questions

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Handwriting Issues (Paper Forms):

• Write clearly in CAPITAL LETTERS
• Use blue or black ink only
• No corrections or white-out
• If you make mistakes, request a new form

Information Accuracy:

• Double-check passport number matches exactly
• Verify name spelling matches passport
• Ensure dates are in correct format (DD/MM/YYYY)
• Confirm accommodation address is complete

Missing Information:

• Don't leave sections blank unless clearly marked optional
• Use "N/A" for non-applicable fields
• Include contact phone numbers
• Provide email address if requested

Accommodation Details:

• Don't write incomplete addresses
• Include district/area information
• Get hotel name exactly right (check booking confirmation)
• Have phone number ready (hotel's main line is fine)

The Immigration Process: What to Expect at Arrival

Understanding what happens at Thai immigration helps reduce anxiety and ensures smooth entry.

At the Immigration Counter

What Immigration Officers Review:

• Your passport and visa validity
• Completed arrival card (digital or paper)
• Return or onward travel ticket (sometimes)
• Proof of accommodation (occasionally)
• Proof of funds (rare but possible)

Typical Questions:

• Purpose of your visit
• Where you're staying
• How long you plan to stay
• Your occupation

Best Practices:

• Be polite and patient
• Answer questions honestly and briefly
• Have documents ready and organized
• Stay calm—it's usually quick and routine

Processing Times

Standard Immigration:

• Usually 2-10 minutes per person
• Longer during peak arrival times
• Have all documents ready to expedite

Peak Times to Avoid:

• Evening international flight arrivals (7 PM - 10 PM)
• Weekend mornings at land borders
• Holiday periods and festivals
• Chinese New Year and peak tourist seasons

If You Encounter Issues

Common Issues and Solutions:

Missing Arrival Card:

• Request form at immigration area
• Complete it there before joining queue
• Have all information ready

Incorrect Information:

• Minor errors usually won't cause problems
• Major discrepancies (wrong passport number) require correction
• Be honest if officer points out errors

Accommodation Questions:

• Have hotel booking confirmation ready
• If staying with friends, have their contact information
• Booking.com or Agoda confirmations are acceptable

Proof of Funds:

• Rarely requested but possible
• Credit cards and cash are acceptable
• Bank statements on phone can help
• Tourist visa: ~20,000 THB per person or 40,000 THB per family
• DTV visa: Should have already proven funds in application

Digital Arrival Card Best Practices

To ensure the smoothest possible experience, follow these expert tips:

Before Your Trip

1. Complete Form in Advance:

• Do it a few days before departure
• You'll have time to gather correct information
• Less stress and more accuracy
• Can reference all documents

2. Save Confirmations:

• Screenshot or print digital confirmations
• Keep with passport and boarding pass
• Have backup on phone and email
• Some immigration checkpoints may want to see it

3. Verify All Information:

• Triple-check passport number
• Confirm accommodation addresses
• Verify flight information
• Ensure dates are correct

At the Airport

1. Have Documents Ready:

• Passport with appropriate visa
• Arrival card (completed, if paper)
• Return/onward ticket (digital or printed)
• Accommodation booking confirmation

2. Be Organized:

• Keep immigration documents together
• Have pen ready for paper forms
• Know your hotel address from memory
• Have emergency contacts accessible

3. Stay Calm and Patient:

• Immigration lines can be long
• Officers are doing their job
• Courtesy goes a long way
• Most entries are smooth and routine

Pro Tips from Frequent Travelers

Use Flight Mode Screenshots:

• Save all booking confirmations as screenshots
• Access them without internet at airport
• Include hotel addresses, flight details, visa copies

Know Your Address:

• Memorize your first hotel's address
• Write it on a note if needed
• Have Google Maps location saved

Arrive Prepared:

• If completing paper form on plane, do it before landing
• Don't wait until you're in immigration line
• Have pen ready (not always provided)

Frequently Asked Questions About Thailand Arrival Cards

Do I need to complete an arrival card if I have a long-term visa?

Yes, all foreign visitors to Thailand must complete an arrival card regardless of visa type. This includes tourists, DTV visa holders, business visa holders, and even long-term residents with appropriate visas. The only exception is Thai citizens.

Can I complete the form on my phone?

While some digital systems may work on mobile devices, it's generally easier to complete on a computer where you can reference documents more easily. If completing on phone, ensure all information is saved and accessible offline at the airport.

What if my hotel booking isn't confirmed yet?

You still need to provide accommodation information. If your plans aren't finalized, you can list a hotel you're considering or a general area. Immigration mainly wants to know your intended location, though having a confirmed booking is always better.

How far in advance can I complete the arrival card?

For digital systems, you can typically complete the form a few weeks in advance. However, ensure all information (especially flight details) remains accurate. Paper forms can be completed on the plane or at the airport.

What happens if I make a mistake on the form?

Minor errors usually aren't problematic. Immigration officers understand that mistakes happen. For significant errors (like wrong passport number), you may need to complete a new form. If completing paper forms, don't try to correct mistakes—request a new form instead.

Do children need to complete arrival cards?

Yes, each person entering Thailand needs an arrival card, including children and infants. Parents or guardians can complete cards on behalf of minors.

Is the departure card still required?

As of recent years, Thailand has eliminated the departure card requirement for most travelers. You only need to complete the arrival portion. However, always follow current instructions as policies can change.

Can I enter Thailand without an arrival card?

No, the arrival card is mandatory for all foreign visitors. You won't be allowed through immigration without one. If you arrive without completing it in advance, you'll need to complete it at the airport before joining the immigration queue.

Thailand Immigration Changes and Updates

Immigration requirements and procedures occasionally change. Here's what you need to know about staying current:

Recent Changes in 2024-2025

Simplified Process:

• Elimination of departure card for most travelers
• Expanded digital submission options
• Streamlined questions and reduced form complexity

Enhanced Security:

• Biometric data collection at major airports
• Digital photography at immigration counters
• Improved database systems for faster processing

Staying Informed

Official Information Sources:

• Thai Immigration Bureau website (immigration.go.th)
• Royal Thai Embassy in your country
• Official Thai tourism authority communications
• Airport information desks upon arrival

Unreliable Sources to Avoid:

• Random travel blogs without verification
• Social media rumors and unconfirmed information
• Third-party websites selling "services"
• Unofficial "visa service" companies

For the most up-to-date information about traveling to Thailand and visa requirements, including comprehensive guides on long-term visa options, visit our detailed Thailand visa guides covering all visa categories available for digital nomads and remote workers in 2025.

Resources and Additional Support

Official Resources

Thai Immigration Bureau:

• Website: immigration.go.th
• Provides official immigration information
• Contact details for specific queries
• Updated policy announcements

Royal Thai Embassies:

• Embassy in your home country
• Visa and immigration information
• Country-specific guidance
• Official confirmation of requirements

Airport Information

Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK):

• Immigration counters on 2nd floor after arrival
• Forms available at counters
• Information desks with English-speaking staff
• Free WiFi for digital form access

Bangkok Don Mueang Airport (DMK):

• Immigration immediately after disembarkation
• Smaller airport with generally faster processing
• Forms available throughout immigration area

Regional Airports:

• Phuket, Chiang Mai, Krabi airports all follow same procedures
• Forms available at all immigration checkpoints
• English-speaking staff at major tourist airports

Conclusion

Completing the Thailand Digital Arrival Card doesn't have to be complicated or expensive. By following the guidance in this comprehensive guide, you'll be well-prepared to enter Thailand smoothly and efficiently while avoiding the numerous scams targeting uninformed travelers.

Remember these key takeaways:

Essential Points:

• The arrival card is completely FREE—never pay for basic submission
• Be wary of scam websites charging unnecessary fees
• Complete the form accurately with all required information
• Have your accommodation and travel details ready
• Save confirmations and keep documents organized
• Be patient and polite at immigration counters

Preparation is Key: Taking 10-15 minutes before your trip to properly complete the arrival card will save you time, stress, and money. Don't fall for scam websites, don't pay unnecessary fees, and don't worry—the process is straightforward when you have the right information.

Thailand welcomes millions of visitors each year, and the immigration process is designed to be efficient and tourist-friendly. Whether you're arriving for a short vacation, exploring the country on a DTV visa, or visiting for business, proper preparation ensures your Thai adventure starts smoothly from the moment you land.

Safe travels, and enjoy your time in the Land of Smiles!

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Immigration requirements and procedures are subject to change. Always verify current requirements with official Thai government sources before your trip. This guide reflects arrival card procedures as of October 2025.