Thailand has officially launched the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC), a new mandatory online entry requirement for all foreign nationals entering the country by air, land, or sea. Effective 1 May 1 2025, the TDAC replaces the traditional paper-based TM6 form, marking a significant step in Thailand’s efforts to modernize its immigration process and enhance border security.
What is the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC)?
The TDAC is an electronic form that travelers must complete within three days prior to their arrival in Thailand. It collects essential information, including:
- Personal details: Full name, nationality, and passport information.
- Travel itinerary: Flight or transportation details and intended date of arrival.
- Accommodation information: Address of stay in Thailand.
- Health declaration: Recent travel history and current health status.
The TDAC aims to streamline the entry process, reduce paperwork, and bolster public health measures by facilitating efficient data collection and analysis.
Who needs to complete the TDAC?
All non-Thai nationals are required to submit the TDAC before entering Thailand, regardless of visa type or duration of stay. This includes tourists, business travellers, and long-term residents. Exemptions apply only to:
- Individuals transiting through Thailand without passing through immigration control.
- Travelers entering Thailand using a Border Pass.
How to complete the TDAC
Travelers can complete the TDAC by visiting the official Thailand Immigration Bureau’s TDAC portal. The process involves:
- Accessing the online form: Available in multiple languages for user convenience.
- Filling in required information: Ensure all details are accurate to avoid delays.
- Submitting the form: Upon submission, travellers will receive a confirmation, which should be saved or printed for presentation upon arrival.
The TDAC is free of charge and designed to be user-friendly, allowing for individual or group submissions.
Benefits of the TDAC System
The implementation of the TDAC offers several advantages:
- Enhanced efficiency: Reduces processing time at immigration checkpoints.
- Improved security: Facilitates better tracking of foreign visitors and aids in crime prevention efforts.
- Public health support: Assists in monitoring and controlling the spread of communicable diseases.
These improvements align with global trends toward digitizing border control measures, similar to systems being adopted in the UK and the EU.
Important Considerations
- Timely submission: Complete the TDAC at least 72 hours before arrival to ensure a smooth entry process.
- Accuracy: Double-check all information for correctness to prevent any issues at immigration.
- Documentation: Keep a copy of the TDAC confirmation accessible during your travel
Conclusion
The introduction of the Thailand Digital Arrival Card marks a significant advancement in the country’s immigration procedures, reflecting a commitment to modernization, security, and public health. All foreign travelers planning to visit Thailand from 1 May 2025 onwards should ensure compliance with this new requirement to enjoy a seamless entry experience. Need Thai visa application assistance? Contact us!
For more information and to complete your TDAC, visit the official Thailand Immigration Bureau’s TDAC portal.
Note: This article is intended for informational purposes and reflects the regulations as of 19 May 2025. Travelers should consult official sources or contact Thai immigration authorities for the most current information.
