The Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) is an online immigration form that replaces the old paper-based TM6 arrival card. Foreign travelers to Thailand must fill out the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC). Completing the TDAC is necessary for a hassle-free arrival in Thailand.
Key Takeaways
- TDAC replaces the current TM6 arrival form for all international travellers entering Thailand.
- All foreign travellers must complete the TDAC form, regardless of their visa type.
- Applications must be submitted via the official Immigration website or the official TDAC app at least 3 days before arriving in Thailand.
- The TDAC form is free of charge and requires information about the traveller, including their travel itinerary, accommodations, and health status.
- By using TDAC, travellers can complete the immigration process more quickly than if they had used a paper TM6, while providing additional support to Thai authorities in conducting public health screening.
The TDAC provides convenience for all foreigners entering Thailand by air, land, or sea. Thai authorities use the TDAC to access traveler and health declaration information before arrival, helping streamline the immigration process.
Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC)
The Thailand Digital Arrival Card was introduced to simplify travel procedures and make immigration faster for tourists, business travelers, and long-term residents. The only exception is travelers who are transiting without passing through immigration.
Who Needs to Apply for the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC)?
The TDAC is required for all foreign nationals entering Thailand by air, land, or sea, regardless of:
- Purpose of travel
- Visa type
- Nationality
This includes:
- Tourists
- Business travelers
- Work visa holders
- Students
- Visa-on-Arrival travelers
- Visa-exempt passengers
Thai citizens do not need to apply for the TDAC.
Transit passengers who do not pass immigration are also exempt.
When Should You Apply for the TDAC?
Travelers should apply at least 3 days (72 hours) before entering Thailand.
Example:
If arriving on June 7, 2025, you should apply on June 4, 2025.
You can still apply on the day of arrival, but early submission avoids delays and ensures verification is completed in time.
How Does the Thailand Digital Arrival Card Work?
The TDAC system digitizes traveler information and connects it to the Thai Immigration Bureau's biometric verification system. This helps officers validate identity quickly using:
- Passport chip data
- Facial recognition matching
- Digital entry records
Travelers can complete the TDAC through the:
You can choose:
- Individual submission
- Group submission for families or group travelers
Some travel and accommodation details can be updated before arrival.
How to Apply for the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC)
The application process for TDAC is simple. Travelers must complete the online form before boarding. To avoid delays, apply at least 72 hours before arrival.
Steps to Apply
1. Visit the Official Immigration Portal
Open the official TDAC page on the Thai Immigration website. Make sure it is the correct government website to avoid scams.
2. Enter Required Details
Provide your passport details, travel information, accommodation address, and contact number.
3. Complete All Sections Carefully
During the application, you will be asked for:
- Passport information
- Travel details
- Country of departure
- Purpose of visit
- Accommodation details
4. Receive and Save Confirmation
After submission, you will receive an electronic confirmation.
A digital copy is sufficient, but keeping a printed backup is recommended.
The TDAC is free of charge.
You can update certain travel or accommodation details later using your reference number.
However, name, date of birth, passport number, and nationality cannot be edited. If incorrect, you must submit a new TDAC.
Note: Avoid third-party websites, as the government is not responsible for the extra fees they charge.
Details Required to Complete the TDAC
You must provide the following information:
Personal Information
- Name
- Gender
- Date of Birth
- Nationality
- Passport Number
- Mobile Number
- Occupation
Residence Information
Travel Information
- Arrival Date
- Purpose of Travel
- Country of Departure
- Mode & Vehicle Number
- Departure Date (if known)
- Visa Number (if any)
Accommodation Information
- Type
- Area/District
- Sub-district
- Province
- Address
- Postal Code (if known)
Health Information
- Recently visited countries
- Yellow Fever Certificate (if required)
- Vaccination date
- Any symptoms in the past 14 days
The TDAC is not a visa.
Travelers must still meet visa requirements or qualify for a visa exemption.
Top Benefits of the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC)
While TDAC's advantages over the TM6 paper form include the following:
- Speedy Immigration Clearance
- Decreased Paperwork
- Better Data Accuracy and Security
- The Capability to Update Some Information Before Arrival
- An Environmentally Friendly Paper-Free System
- Enhanced Public Health Screening Capability
- More Efficient Immigration Management
There are, however, some drawbacks to TDAC as well, which we will discuss below!
Limitations of the TDAC
Travelers should be aware of the following:
- Personal identity details cannot be edited after submission
- TDAC is currently available only in English
- Requires a stable internet connection
- High traffic may cause slow performance
- As a newly implemented system, minor technical issues may occur
Since the TDAC system is new, such limitations are to be expected. When applying, you must also fulfill the health declaration requirements discussed below.
Health Declaration Rules for TDAC
As part of the TDAC, travelers must provide:
- Yellow Fever vaccination (if arriving from affected countries)
- Countries visited within the last 14 days
- Any recent symptoms such as fever, cough, rash, diarrhea, or fatigue
Travelers showing symptoms may be directed to screening by the Department of Disease Control.
Things You Shouldn't Do When Submitting Your TDAC Application
The process of applying for your TDAC isn't complicated, but remember these items when completing your application.
- Don't wait until the last minute to submit your application.
- Be sure to check your passport number and flight details.
- Only apply through the official TDAC site or application.
- Keep a record of your TDAC confirmation email or QR code as a backup.
Final Thoughts
Thanks to a digital system, such as the Thailand Digital Arrival Card, Thailand's beautiful cities with their beaches, lively markets and awe-inspiring temples will be easier than ever for tourists to visit and explore. By following a few simple steps, you can easily fill out your TDAC and be ready for an enjoyable experience upon arriving in Thailand.