Thailand Implements Digital Arrival Card Requirement for Foreign Travelers
New TDAC System Replaces Paper TM6 Form for Streamlined Entry
Thailand will introduce a mandatory digital arrival card system for all foreign visitors starting May 1, 2025. The Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) replaces the traditional paper-based TM6 immigration form, aiming to simplify entry procedures and enhance border security. All non-Thai nationals—including tourists, business travelers, and long-term residents—must complete the TDAC online before arrival, regardless of whether they enter by air, land, or sea.
How to Complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC)
Online Registration Process and Required Information for TDAC
Foreign travelers are required to register for the TDAC at least three days prior to their journey. The application can be completed on the official TDAC website using a mobile device, tablet, or computer. Travelers must provide personal details, passport information, travel itinerary, accommodation address in Thailand, and health status as required by the Ministry of Public Health. After submission, a confirmation—usually a QR code or reference number—will be sent via email, which must be presented at immigration upon arrival.
TDAC System Features and Languages Supported
Multilingual Support and User-Friendly Digital Entry for Thailand
The TDAC platform is designed to be user-friendly, offering instructions and support in five languages: English, Chinese, Korean, Russian, and Japanese. An app version for both Android and iOS is expected soon, further improving accessibility for travelers. The system is free of charge and aims to reduce paperwork, speed up immigration processing, and minimize congestion at entry points.
Exemptions and Additional Entry Information
Who Is Exempt from the TDAC and What Else Travelers Should Know
Only travelers transiting through Thailand without passing through immigration control and those using a Border Pass are exempt from the TDAC requirement. The TDAC is not a visa and does not replace any visa or e-visa requirements. It is a digital entry form designed to comply with international standards and ensure a smoother, more efficient arrival experience.
Tips for a Smooth Arrival in Thailand
Best Practices for Completing the TDAC and Entering Thailand
To avoid delays, travelers should gather all necessary documents and fill out the TDAC as soon as the three-day window opens before their trip. Saving the digital confirmation on a phone or printing it out is recommended for easy access at immigration checkpoints. While assistance will be available at immigration for exceptional cases, completing the TDAC online in advance is strongly advised to ensure a hassle-free entry.
