What Is the New Digital Requirement?
Thailand has officially replaced the paper-based TM6 arrival and departure card, which travellers used to fill out on the plane, with a new digital system. This new mandatory requirement is called the Thailand Digital Arrival Card, or TDAC. It is a free
online form that all foreign nationals, including Indian tourists, must complete before entering the country. The system was introduced to streamline and speed up the immigration process, reducing queues and paperwork at airports and other border crossings. The TDAC collects your personal, travel, and accommodation details digitally, generating a unique QR code that you present to the immigration officer upon arrival.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Filling the TDAC
Completing the TDAC is straightforward if you follow the correct steps. First, you must use the official government website: tdac.immigration.go.th. Be wary of third-party websites that charge a fee, as the official TDAC is completely free. The form can only be submitted within the 72-hour window before your scheduled arrival in Thailand. You will need to enter personal information exactly as it appears on your passport, along with your travel details like flight number and arrival date. You must also provide the address of your accommodation in Thailand. After reviewing all your information for accuracy, you submit the form and will receive a confirmation QR code via email.
Information You'll Need Ready
To ensure a smooth application process, gather all necessary information before you start. You will need your passport, which must be valid for at least six months from your date of entry. Have your confirmed flight details handy, including the flight number for your arrival in Thailand. You will also be required to provide the name and address of your first hotel or accommodation. It is also wise to have your return or onward ticket details available, as well as proof of sufficient funds for your trip, as immigration officers may ask for this information at their discretion. For Indian passport holders, pay special attention to spelling your name exactly as it appears in the machine-readable zone (MRZ) of your passport to avoid rejection.
On Arrival: Using Your QR Code
Once you land in Thailand, the process is simple. Instead of handing over a paper form, you will present the TDAC QR code to the immigration officer. It is highly recommended to save a screenshot of the QR code on your phone so you can access it without needing an internet connection. Having a printed copy as a backup is also a good idea. By pre-registering your details, the time spent at the immigration counter is significantly reduced, leading to shorter queues and a faster start to your vacation. Remember, the TDAC is not a visa; it is a mandatory entry declaration. Depending on the latest rules, Indian citizens may be eligible for visa-free entry or may need a Visa on Arrival, so always check the latest visa requirements before your trip.
