Thailand expands visa-free access, introduces Destination Thailand Visa and TM.6 digital arrival card

Entry rules and timelines at a glance

From January 1, 2025, passport holders from 93 countries can enter Thailand under an expanded visa-exemption scheme allowing up to 60 days per stay; an additional 31 countries remain eligible for Visa on Arrival, with eight more under consideration. The government rolled out the TM.6 Thailand Digital Arrival Card on May 1, 2025, and consolidated Non-Immigrant visa codes from 17 to 7 as of August 31, 2025.

Key changes and practical impacts

These measures reduce paperwork for short-term visitors, widen access for remote workers and students, and streamline processing at immigration checkpoints. The Cabinet accepted policy guidelines proposed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, while the Immigration Bureau implemented the digital arrival system to speed up clearance.

What’s new: highlights

• Extended visa-free stays: Up to 60 days for visitors from 93 countries.
• Visa on Arrival: Available to passport holders from 31 countries; eight more may be added.
• Destination Thailand Visa: Aimed at remote workers who wish to stay longer and work online.
• Non-Immigrant ED Plus visa: For students or combined study-and-work stays under specific conditions.
• TM.6 digital arrival card: Replaced the previous Electronic Travel Authorization for faster entry processing.

Table: Quick comparison of major measures

How the digital arrival card affects transfers and airport logistics

De TM.6 system shortens biometric and ID checks at immigration, which typically reduces passenger dwell time in arrival halls. Shorter processing time means quicker access to baggage claim and curbside pickup, allowing transfer providers, taxis and limousine services to schedule more efficient pick-ups. At a glance, drivers and logistics teams can better plan exact pickup windows, reducing idle time and fare uncertainty.

Practical tips for booking taxis and transfers

• Complete the TM.6 digital arrival card before landing to save time.
• Confirm your driver’s license plate and car model with transfers to avoid confusion at crowded terminals.
• Allow for potential busier arrival periods during peak tourism months despite faster processing.
• Choose pre-booked transfers or private cars to guarantee a seat and fixed fare rather than relying on metered cabs at the curb.

Who benefits most from the visa changes?

Leisure tourists from visa-exempt countries gain longer stays without extra paperwork, while digital nomads can apply for the Destination Thailand Visa to combine tourism with remote work. Students and combined study-work applicants can use the new Non-Immigrant ED Plus route. Retirees and long-stay applicants will see ongoing reviews of longer-term visa criteria, potentially easing retirement relocation plans.

Checklist for travellers

• Verify your passport’s eligibility under the 93-country exemption.
• Prepare the TM.6 digital arrival card and any supporting documents for special visas.
• Book airport transfers in advance — this helps secure exact pickup times and transparent fares.
• Compare private seater, limousine or multi-seater options to suit group size and luggage needs.

Operational note for taxi and transfer providers

Service companies should update booking platforms to request TM.6 confirmations, visible vehicle details, driver license verification and clear pricing. This reduces disputes at arrival and improves customer satisfaction for both short airport rides and longer intercity transfers.

Highlights: the expansion of visa-free stays, a digital arrival card that speeds entry, and new visas for remote workers and students all simplify travel planning and reduce administrative friction. Still, even the fullest reviews and the most honest feedback can’t replace firsthand experience. On LocalsRide, you can hire a car with driver from verified providers at reasonable prices. This empowers you to make the most informed decision without unnecessary expenses or disappointments. For your next trip, consider the convenience and reliability of LocalsRide. Book your Ride LocalsRide.nl

In summary, Thailand’s 2025 visa reforms—longer visa-free stays, streamlined Non-Immigrant codes, the Destination Thailand Visa and the TM.6 digital arrival card—collectively reduce wait times at the airport, broaden options for remote work and study, and make transfer planning more predictable. Travellers arriving by plane can expect faster processing and clearer pickup logistics, helping them find the right taxi, private car or limousine at transparent prices. With LocalsRide.com you can view exact car makes and models, driver ratings, seat options and fares in advance, helping you to book the best private transfer or cab for your destination, airport arrival or city travel with confidence.