The Shift to Digital: A Quick Overview
Both Thailand and Malaysia have moved away from the traditional paper forms you used to fill out on the plane. They now use mandatory online systems to streamline immigration. For Thailand, it's the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC), which replaced
the old TM6 form. For Malaysia, it's the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC). Both are free and must be filled out on their respective official government websites. Completing these forms correctly before you fly is essential to avoid delays upon landing.
Thailand's Digital Arrival Card (TDAC)
The TDAC is a compulsory requirement for almost all foreign visitors entering Thailand, including Indian tourists travelling under visa-free arrangements. You must complete the TDAC online within 72 hours (three days) before your arrival in Thailand. The system captures your passport details, flight information, and your address in Thailand. Be careful to use only the official immigration portal, as third-party sites may try to charge a fee for this free service. After submission, you will receive a confirmation, often with a QR code, which you should save on your phone as proof for immigration officers.
How to Complete Thailand's TDAC Form
The process is straightforward. First, navigate to the official TDAC immigration website. You will need to provide your full name as it appears on your passport, passport number, date of birth, and nationality. You will also be asked for your travel details, including your arrival date and flight number, along with the full address of your accommodation in Thailand. Review all details carefully before you submit the form. An email confirmation will be sent to you, which is important to keep handy for a hassle-free immigration process.
Malaysia's Digital Arrival Card (MDAC)
Similar to Thailand, Malaysia requires nearly all foreign nationals, including Indian citizens enjoying visa-free entry, to complete the MDAC. The rule is firm: you must fill out the MDAC within the three days leading up to your arrival in Malaysia. Submitting it earlier than this 72-hour window will not work, as the system will not accept it. The card is mandatory for each entry, so if you plan to leave and re-enter Malaysia, you must complete a new MDAC for each visit.
Step-by-Step Guide for the MDAC
To start, visit the official website of the Malaysian Immigration Department. Click 'Register' and prepare to enter your personal information, such as your name, passport number, and travel dates. You'll need to provide your arrival and departure dates, mode of transport (like your flight number), and where you embarked from last. You must also enter the address of your accommodation in Malaysia. After submitting, you'll receive a confirmation to your registered email address. While a printout isn't strictly required, it is highly recommended to have a digital copy saved on your phone to show at the immigration counter.
Key Things for Indian Travellers to Remember
For both the TDAC and MDAC, accuracy is key. Ensure the name and passport number you enter perfectly match your travel documents. Always use the official government portals, which are free. Any website demanding payment is not official. The 72-hour submission window is a strict rule for both countries. For Malaysia, even with visa-free travel until the end of 2026, the MDAC remains a mandatory condition of entry, along with having a confirmed return ticket and proof of accommodation. On your first visit to Malaysia after submitting an MDAC, you must use the manual immigration counter to verify your passport; you can use the faster autogates on subsequent trips.
