I’ve been visiting Thailand for over 20 years, around 20 trips in total. Entry rules have changed many times over the years, but 2026 brings another significant shift — a reduction in the visa-free stay period and a mandatory digital arrival card. I experienced both on my recent trip, so here’s my honest report.
Visa-Free Stay Reduced from 60 to 30 Days
On May 19, 2026, the Thai cabinet officially approved the abolition of the 60-day visa exemption. Japanese passport holders will now be limited to 30 days without a visa. The exact implementation date is not yet confirmed as it takes effect 15 days after publication in the Royal Gazette, but the change is coming soon.
The reason behind the change
The crackdown targets illegal employment, organized crime, and overstaying — all of which increased under the more generous 60-day policy.
Extensions are still possible
You can apply for an additional 30-day extension at a Thai immigration office after arrival. So the maximum stay of 60 days (30 days initial + 30 days extension) remains possible. Anyone planning to stay longer than 30 days should either obtain a tourist visa before leaving Japan or handle the extension process in Thailand.
What is TDAC?
Since May 1, 2025, the old paper arrival card (TM.6) has been replaced by an online pre-registration system called TDAC (Thailand Digital Arrival Card). It is mandatory for all foreign nationals entering Thailand by air, land, or sea.
My Real Experience Registering for TDAC
I registered for TDAC before my recent trip, so here’s what actually happened.
Registration is easy on a smartphone
Just visit the official website and fill in the same kind of information you used to write on the paper arrival card — passport details, flight information, accommodation, and so on. After submitting, a permit is sent to your registered email address. Save it or take a screenshot.
When to register
Registration opens 72 hours (3 days) before your arrival in Thailand. Note that the arrival day itself is counted as one of those days.
What actually happened at immigration
I showed my passport and the permit screen on my smartphone to the immigration officer. Honestly, the officer barely looked at the phone screen. Overall the process felt smoother than filling out a paper card on the plane or after landing.
How to Spot Fake TDAC Websites
The official site warns about fraudulent websites. But honestly, it can be hard to tell which sites are legitimate in the first place. Here’s how to protect yourself.
- TDAC registration is completely free. Any site charging a fee is not official
- The official URL is tdac.immigration.go.th
- Paid “assistance” services appearing in search engine ads are likely unofficial
- The safest approach is to follow links directly from the Thai Embassy or Tourism Authority of Thailand official websites
Pre-Trip Checklist
Up to 72 hours before departure
└ Register TDAC on the official website
└ Save the permit email or screenshot it
Check your stay length
└ 30 days or less → visa-free entry OK
└ 31 days or more → get a tourist visa
or extend after arrival
At immigration
└ Present passport + permit screenThailand’s entry rules can change with little notice. Always check the latest information on the Thai Embassy or Tourism Authority of Thailand official website before departure.
