Feeling unsure after seeing travel posts and “rule change” headlines? You’re not alone. Thailand has updated a few entry systems over the last couple of years, and social media loves turning that into panic. This post is a calm, simple update for divers visiting Koh Tao. We’ll keep it practical: what you need to do, what’s changed recently, what’s just a rumour, and how to arrive with less stress. The 2026 “big three” for most travellers 1) TDAC (Thailand Digital Arrival Card) is now normal Thailand introduced the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) and it has been in use since 1 May 2025. It’s required for foreign travellers and is part of Thailand’s move toward digital entry processes. We already have a full step-by-step guide (with the official link and scam warnings) here: Thailand’s New Digital Arrival Card (TDAC): An Easy Guide for Divers Visiting Koh Tao 2) Visa-exempt stays are often 60 days (for eligible passports) Thailand expanded its visa exemption scheme to allow up to 60 days for nationals of eligible countries (it depends on your passport). Extensions can be possible, but they are always at Immigration’s discretion. If you’re coming for a normal dive holiday, this is often all you need. If you’re planning a longer stay (courses, slow travel, remote work), keep reading. 3) The e-Visa system is now much wider Thailand expanded its e-Visa system to all Thai embassies and consulates worldwide from 1 January 2025. This makes it easier to apply online for many visa types before you travel. Longer stays: the DTV option (remote work / “workcation” travellers) If you want to stay longer than a standard holiday, Thailand introduced the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV). It’s a five-year multiple-entry visa that can allow up to 180 days per entry (some embassies also mention an extension option). We’ve covered this in a simple, diver-friendly way here: Destination Thailand Visa (DTV): A Simple Guide for Longer Stays (and More Diving) in Koh Tao Rumour watch: “only two visa-free entries per year” You might have seen posts saying foreigners can only enter Thailand visa-free twice per year. This claim has been publicly denied by official Thai channels. That said, Immigration officers can still look at your travel history if you’re doing repeated long stays. So if you’re planning multiple back-to-back visits, it’s smart to choose the visa that matches your real plan. What this means for Koh Tao (real-life travel) For most Phoenix Divers guests, the entry process is simple. The main thing is being organised before you fly. Your calm pre-trip checklist Passport validity: make sure it’s valid for at least 6 months. TDAC: complete it within the allowed window and save your QR confirmation (use the official link in our TDAC guide). Onward travel: keep proof of an onward ticket handy (often requested by airlines). First-night address: have your first stay details ready (useful for TDAC and arrival steps). Buffer time: if you’re connecting to Koh Tao by ferry, give yourself breathing room in case of weather changes. Getting from Bangkok/Samui/Surat Thani/Chumphon to Koh Tao If you’re still planning routes, this guide helps: How to get to Koh Tao: a comprehensive guide How we keep you updated (without the drama) Travel rules can evolve. And headlines love stress. Our approach is simple: We follow official sources (Thai government updates, tourism updates, and embassy guidance). We keep our blog guides updated when anything meaningful changes. If you message us your dates and passport nationality, we’ll point you to the right official info. Ready to dive Koh Tao?If you’re worried about entry steps, send us a message. We’ll help you arrive smoothly so you can focus on the fun part: relaxed boat days, warm water, and reef time. Contact Phoenix Divers and we’ll help you plan your trip.Get in touch Sources Thailand PRD (Government Public Relations Department): Cabinet acknowledges visa measures (e-Visa expansion + TDAC timeline) Royal Thai Consulate-General, Los Angeles: Visa exemption (60 days) and VoA information Official Thailand e-Visa portal (Ministry of Foreign Affairs) NBT World / Anti-Fake News Center Thailand: clarification on the “two visa-free entries per year” rumor Economic Times: summary report on Thailand denying the “two visa-free entries” claim