The New Era of Digital Travel
The days of filling out paper forms on the plane are over for those travelling to Thailand and Malaysia. Both countries have implemented mandatory digital arrival cards to streamline immigration and enhance security. For Indian passport holders, this
means a small but crucial extra step in your pre-travel checklist. While India enjoys visa-free entry for tourism in both nations, this digital registration is non-negotiable. Failing to complete it can lead to unnecessary delays or complications upon landing. The process is free and straightforward, but must be done through official government portals within a specific timeframe before your arrival.
Thailand: The TDAC Explained
Thailand has replaced its legacy paper-based TM6 form with the Thailand Digital Arrival Card, or TDAC. This is now mandatory for all foreign nationals entering the country, regardless of their visa status. As of August 2026, Indian citizens enjoy visa-exempt entry, but completing the TDAC is a compulsory requirement for all. The form collects your personal information, passport details, flight number, and address of your accommodation in Thailand. It is designed to create a digital record of entry for every visitor, making the immigration process faster and more efficient.
How to Complete the Thailand TDAC
The TDAC must be submitted online within 72 hours before your arrival in Thailand. Submissions made earlier than this will be rejected. It's crucial to use the official portal, as third-party websites may charge unnecessary fees. After successfully submitting the form, you will receive a QR code via email. You should save this code on your phone and also keep a printed copy as a backup to present to immigration officers upon arrival. A common mistake for Indian travellers is incorrectly entering their name; ensure it matches the machine-readable zone (MRZ) on your passport to avoid issues.
Malaysia: Understanding the MDAC
Similarly, Malaysia requires all foreign visitors, including Indian passport holders, to complete the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) before entry. This rule was implemented on December 1, 2023, replacing the old paper forms. Even though Indians can enter Malaysia visa-free for up to 30 days for tourism until the end of 2026, the MDAC is still mandatory. It is not a visa, but a pre-arrival registration that informs the immigration authorities of your visit details, including where you plan to stay. Completing the MDAC is free and must be done for each entry into Malaysia.
A Step-by-Step Guide to the MDAC
The MDAC needs to be filled out within three days prior to your arrival in Malaysia. To complete it, you will need to access the official Malaysian Immigration Department website. The form requires your personal details, passport information, travel dates, flight number, and your accommodation address in Malaysia. After submission, you'll receive a confirmation email with a PIN. You can then use this PIN on the official portal to download a PDF of your completed MDAC, which you should save on your phone or print out. Immigration officers will verify your MDAC status electronically, but having a copy handy is always recommended for a hassle-free experience.
Key Takeaways for Indian Travellers
For both Thailand and Malaysia, these digital forms are mandatory, free, and must be filled out within the 72-hour window before arrival. Always use the official government websites to avoid scams. The key information required is standard: your passport, flight details, and where you'll be staying. While both countries offer welcoming visa-free policies for Indian tourists, this digital formality is the new standard for entry. Double-check all information before submitting, especially your name and passport number, to ensure it matches your documents perfectly. Getting this small step right will be the first move towards a fantastic holiday.
