Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) 2026: Complete Guide for Foreign Visitors – Mandatory Online Form, How to Apply & FAQs
- Xavi
- Jul 27
- 4 min read
Updated: Jul 28
Starting May 1, 2025, Thailand implemented the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) , a mandatory online form for all foreign visitors entering the country by air, land, or sea . This initiative, introduced by the Thai Immigration Bureau under the Ministry of Public Health, modernizes the immigration process by replacing the traditional paper arrival card (TM6) with a fully digital system .
The TDAC Thailand is a significant step toward faster immigration clearance, enhanced security, and improved public health monitoring . This guide covers everything you need to know about the TDAC, including who needs to submit it, how to apply online, submission deadlines, and tips for a hassle-free entry.
Quick Facts: Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC)
Feature | Details |
Effective Date | May 1, 2025 |
Who Must Submit | All non-Thai nationals entering Thailand (by air, land, or sea) |
Submission Window | Within 3 days (72 hours) before arrival |
Cost | Free (Beware of scam websites charging fees) |
Official Website | |
Validity | Single entry – a new TDAC is required for each entry |
Purpose | Replaces paper TM6 arrival card; facilitates immigration, health, and security screening |
What is the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC)?
The Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) is an electronic travel declaration that collects essential passenger information, including:
Passport details
Flight and travel itinerary
Accommodation address in Thailand
Health declaration
Unlike the old paper-based system, the TDAC must be submitted within 3 days (72 hours) before arrival . This allows Thai immigration authorities to pre-screen travelers, reducing wait times at airports and land borders .
Key Benefits of the TDAC:
Quicker immigration processing – Say goodbye to completing paper forms during your flight
Enhanced security – Pre-verification of traveler details
Better health monitoring – Early detection of potential health risks
Eco-friendly – Eliminates paper waste
Who Needs to Submit the TDAC?
The Thailand Digital Arrival Card is mandatory for all non-Thai nationals entering Thailand, regardless of their mode of transportation . This includes:
Tourists and holidaymakers
Business visitors
Expatriates and long-term residents
Children and infants
Travelers entering by air, land, or sea
Exemptions from the TDAC Requirement
Exemption Category | Details |
Transit Passengers | Those not passing through Thai immigration control |
Border Pass Holders | Travelers from neighboring countries using short-term border passes |
Diplomatic/Official Passport Holders | Subject to bilateral agreements |
Important: The TDAC is not a visa and does not replace a visa . Travelers who require a visa to enter Thailand must still apply for an e-Visa through the official portal and additionally complete the TDAC before entry .
How to Apply for the TDAC Thailand (Step-by-Step Guide)
Step 1: Access the Official TDAC Website
Visit the official TDAC portal: https://tdac.immigration.go.th
Warning: There are fraudulent websites that charge fees for TDAC applications. The TDAC is completely free. Only use the official tdac.immigration.go.th domain .
Step 2: Select "Arrival Card"
On the TDAC homepage, click the "Arrival Card" button to begin your application .
Step 3: Fill in Required Details
You will need to provide the following information :
Personal Information: Full name (as per passport), date of birth, nationality, passport number, and expiry date
Travel Information: Expected date of entry, means of transport (air, land, or sea), flight number, purpose of visit, and address in Thailand
Health Declaration: Any countries visited in the 14 days preceding arrival
Step 4: Review and Confirm
Ensure all entries are accurate. After submission, the information cannot be modified.
Step 5: Submit & Receive Confirmation
After submission, you will receive a digital confirmation (PDF with a QR code) via email . This confirmation must be presented at immigration upon arrival.
Pro Tip: Save the QR code on your phone or print a copy. A screenshot works well in case of connectivity issues.
When Should You Submit the TDAC?
The Thailand Digital Arrival Card must be submitted within 3 days (72 hours) before arrival .
Examples:
If arriving on May 5, submission can begin on May 2
If arriving on May 1, submission can begin on April 28
Note: The system calculates this based on the arrival date. Submissions made more than 3 days in advance will not be accepted.
What Happens If You Forget to Submit the TDAC?
Travelers who arrive without a completed TDAC may face delays at immigration .
At the Airport: Immigration officers will direct passengers to kiosks to file the TDAC on the spot, which adds 15 to 45 minutes to their queue time
At Land and Sea Borders: Similar help points are available, but delays should be expected
Recommendation: Complete the TDAC before departure to avoid any issues at the border.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Is the TDAC the same as a visa?
No. The TDAC is not a visa—it is an entry declaration. Whether you need a visa depends on your country of citizenship .
Q2: How much does the TDAC cost?
The TDAC is free. Beware of third-party websites that charge fees for the service .
Q3: Do children need a TDAC?
Yes. All foreign nationals, including infants and children, must have a submitted TDAC .
Q4: Can I fill out the TDAC at the airport?
No. It must be submitted online in advance. However, help points at airports can assist in exceptional circumstances .
Q5: Can I update my TDAC after submission?
Information can be updated before travel, but once submitted, review carefully .
Q6: What if I have a visa exemption (60-day stay)?
The TDAC remains required, even for travelers who are exempt from needing a visa.
Q7: What information is required for the health declaration?
You must report any countries visited in the 14 days preceding arrival .
Tips for a Smooth Arrival in Thailand
Action | Why It Matters |
Submit early | Avoid last-minute issues; submit at least 72 hours before arrival |
Double-check details | Ensure passport, flight, and accommodation info are correct |
Keep confirmation handy | Save the QR code on your phone or print a copy |
Check visa requirements | Some nationalities still need a visa; the TDAC does not replace a visa |
Monitor official updates | Rules may change; check tdac.immigration.go.th before travel |
Official Resources
Resource | Link |
Official TDAC Website | |
TDAC User Guide | |
TDAC FAQs | |
Thai Immigration Bureau | |
Thai e-Visa Portal |
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