Your First Step: The Mandatory Digital Arrival Card
The days of filling out paper forms on the plane are over. Thailand has fully digitized its arrival process with the mandatory Thailand Digital Arrival Card, known as the TDAC. This online form has completely replaced the old paper-based TM6 card that
seasoned travellers might remember. It is a compulsory requirement for every foreign national entering the country, including all tourists from India, regardless of their visa type. The process is straightforward and, importantly, completely free on the official government portal. You must complete your TDAC submission online within 72 hours before your flight is scheduled to arrive in Thailand. Once you submit your details, a unique QR code will be sent to your email. This code is your digital pass through immigration and must be presented to the officers upon landing.
Introducing THIM: The New Official App
As of August 2026, the process of submitting your TDAC has become even more streamlined with the launch of an official mobile application called THIM, which stands for Thailand Immigration Management. Using this app is now the mandatory way for foreign travellers to complete their digital arrival card. The app, available for both iOS and Android, requires you to create a profile with your passport information just once. For future trips, you simply need to update your new flight number and arrival date to generate a fresh QR code directly within the app. This move is designed to create a more convenient and secure experience for everyone. Downloading and setting up the THIM app before you leave home is the most important digital step you can take for a smooth arrival.
Navigating The Visa Rules For Indians
Good news for short-term holidaymakers: Indian passport holders are eligible for visa-free entry into Thailand for tourism purposes. This means for many trips, you will not need to apply for a visa in advance. However, the exact duration of this visa-free stay has been subject to frequent changes throughout 2026. Therefore, it is absolutely essential to check the latest rules on the official website of the Royal Thai Embassy or Consulate in India for the current number of visa-free days before booking your travel. For those planning a longer vacation that exceeds the visa-free allowance, you must secure the proper visa before you travel.
For Longer Stays: The E-Visa Portal
If your Thai adventure is planned for longer than the visa-free period allows, you will need to apply for a Tourist e-Visa. Thailand has simplified this with a unified online portal: thaievisa.go.th. This official website handles all visa applications, from standard tourist visas to the new long-stay Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) for digital nomads. The process is done entirely from home. You will need to create an account, fill in the application, and upload digital copies of your documents. These typically include a scan of your passport, a recent photograph meeting specific requirements, confirmed return flight bookings, proof of accommodation for your stay, and recent bank statements to show sufficient funds. After paying the fee online, the approved e-Visa is sent to you as a PDF to be printed and presented during your journey.
The On-Arrival Checklist: What To Have Ready
While the arrival card is digital, immigration officers may still ask for supporting documents. Having these ready on your phone or as printouts will prevent any delays. Your essential on-arrival checklist should include: your passport with at least six months of validity remaining; the QR code generated by the THIM app; your confirmed return or onward flight ticket; proof of your hotel bookings or accommodation address; and evidence of sufficient funds for your stay. The general requirement is to have access to at least 10,000 THB per person. A quick check by an officer is common, so keeping these organised ensures you move through the airport quickly and start your holiday.
