Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC): Your Complete Guide to Hassle-Free Entry 2025
Having need-to-travel fever? No worries, let’s get you some “Hello Thailand” therapy!
But before you go, get familiar with the new Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC), a pre-trip essential for a smooth arrival experience. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about this mandatory digital form. Starting on May 1, 2025, all visitors are required to register online before entering the Land of Smiles.
What Is the Thailand Digital Arrival Card?
The TDAC is an electronic entry form that has replaced the traditional paper TM-6 arrival cards for all non-Thai nationals entering Thailand. This digital system streamlines immigration processes, reduces waiting times, and enhances data accuracy for Thai authorities. You'll need to submit your personal information, travel details, accommodation plans, and health declarations through this system before arriving in Thailand.
Who Must Complete the TDAC?
Starting on May 1, 2025, all foreign visitors must submit the TDAC before entering Thailand, with only two exceptions:
Travelers who are merely transiting through Thailand without passing through immigration
Foreigners entering using a Border Pass
Step-by-Step Guide to Completing Your TDAC
The TDAC should be submitted within 72 hours (three days) before your arrival in Thailand. Follow these simple steps:
Access the official portal at tdac.immigration.go.th
Choose submission type - individual or group submission option
Enter required information:
Personal details exactly as shown in your passport
Complete travel information including flight number and visit purpose
Your accommodation details in Thailand
Health declaration, particularly if you've visited high-risk areas recently
Review all information carefully before proceeding
Provide your email address to receive confirmation
Accept the terms and conditions
Download or print your TDAC confirmation - you'll need to present this upon arrival
Important Things to Remember
The TDAC is not a visa substitute - you still need the appropriate visa if required for your nationality
All information must be provided in English
Certain critical information (name, passport number, nationality, date of birth) cannot be modified after submission
Additional health information may be required if you've visited high-risk areas within 14 days of arrival
Why Thailand Implemented the TDAC System
Thailand's digital arrival card offers multiple benefits for both travelers and immigration authorities:
Faster processing at immigration checkpoints
Enhanced convenience with online pre-arrival completion
Improved security and health monitoring capabilities
Flexible submission options for individuals and groups
Planning Your Trip to Thailand
The TDAC implementation represents Thailand's commitment to modernizing its entry procedures and creating a more efficient arrival experience. By completing your TDAC ahead of time, you not only ensure your own smooth entry but also support Thailand's efforts to maintain secure and efficient borders.
Remember to visit the official Thailand Digital Arrival Card portal at tdac.immigration.go.th to complete your form within three days of your planned arrival.
Pro tip: Save your TDAC confirmation both digitally and as a printed copy to ensure you're prepared for immigration regardless of internet connectivity or phone battery issues upon arrival.
Frequently Asked Questions About Thailand's Digital Arrival Card
Q: Is the Thailand Digital Arrival Card the same as a visa?
A: No, the TDAC is not a visa. It's an immigration pre-registration form that all travelers must complete regardless of visa status. You still need to obtain the appropriate visa for Thailand if your nationality requires one.
Q: Is there a fee for submitting the Thailand Digital Arrival Card?
A: No, the official TDAC submission is completely free of charge. Be cautious of third-party websites claiming to process your TDAC for a fee.
Q: Can I fill out the TDAC upon arrival in Thailand?
A: It's strongly recommended to complete your TDAC before traveling. While there might be facilities at airports to complete it upon arrival, this could result in delays during your immigration process.
Q: How long is my TDAC valid for?
A: Your TDAC is valid only for the specific arrival date indicated in your submission. If your travel plans change, you'll need to submit a new TDAC.
Submission Process
Q: What happens if I make a mistake on my TDAC submission?
A: If you notice errors in unchangeable fields (name, passport number, nationality, date of birth), you'll need to submit an entirely new TDAC. For other fields, you can edit your submission using the confirmation code sent to your email.
Q: Can I submit one TDAC for my entire family?
A: Yes, the TDAC system allows group submissions. One person can complete the form for multiple travelers, which is convenient for families or groups traveling together.
Q: What if I don't know my accommodation details yet?
A: You should have at least your first night's accommodation arranged and entered in the TDAC. If plans change, you can update this information later (except within 3 hours of your scheduled arrival).
Q: Do I need to print my TDAC confirmation?
A: While a digital copy on your smartphone is generally acceptable, it's recommended to also have a printed copy as backup in case of technical issues.
Technical Issues
Q: What should I do if I didn't receive my TDAC confirmation email?
A: First, check your spam folder. If you still can't find it, you can retrieve your confirmation by visiting the official TDAC website and using the "Retrieve TDAC" function with your passport number and date of birth.
Q: Is the TDAC website available in languages other than English?
A: The TDAC portal supports multiple languages including English, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, and Thai. Look for the language selector on the top right corner of the official website.
Q: What if the TDAC website is down or experiencing technical issues?
A: If you encounter technical difficulties, try using a different web browser or device. If problems persist, wait a few hours and try again. For urgent travel, document your attempts and arrive early at the airport.
Special Situations
Q: Do children need their own TDAC?
A: Yes, travelers of all ages, including infants and children, require individual TDACs, though they can be submitted as part of a group submission.
Q: I'm arriving in Thailand by land/sea border crossing. Do I still need a TDAC?
A: Yes, the TDAC requirement applies to all entry points to Thailand, including land and sea borders.
Q: What if I'm just transiting through a Thai airport without going through immigration?
A: If you're transiting without passing through immigration control (staying in the international transit area), you don't need to complete a TDAC.
Q: Are there special requirements for the TDAC during health emergencies or outbreaks?
A: During public health emergencies, additional health declaration fields may be added to the TDAC. Always check the most current requirements before traveling.
Well everyone, thanks for reading this far. You may find more resources, below.
For the Top 17 Do’s and Don’ts for for visitors, please go HERE.
For the Top 8 popular options, please go HERE.
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Cheers! — Monchai
