Goodbye Paper, Hello Digital
For years, the first taste of Thailand for many was filling out the paper TM.6 arrival card on the plane. This form, while necessary, often led to delays, errors, and long processing lines at immigration counters. Recognising this bottleneck, Thai authorities
have replaced the paper form with a fully digital system: the Thailand Digital Arrival Card, or TDAC. This mandatory online registration is designed to collect traveller information before arrival, drastically cutting down on manual checks and paperwork at the airport. The goal is to make the arrival process more efficient and secure, allowing tourists to start their holiday sooner.
What is the TDAC and Who Needs It?
The TDAC is a free, mandatory online form for all foreign nationals entering Thailand, regardless of their visa status. This includes Indian tourists travelling under the current visa-free scheme. It is not a visa application but a digital declaration of your arrival details. The system collects essential information such as passport details, flight number, and your accommodation address in Thailand. Upon successful submission, you receive a unique QR code via email, which you must present to the immigration officer. It is crucial to use the official government portal, as unauthorised third-party websites may try to charge a fee for this free service.
A Step-by-Step Guide for Indian Travellers
Completing the TDAC is a straightforward process that takes only a few minutes. First, visit the official website: tdac.immigration.go.th. You'll need to enter your personal information, including your full name as it appears on your passport, passport number, and date of birth. Next, provide your travel details, such as your arrival flight number and the address of your first night's stay in Thailand. After reviewing all the information for accuracy, you can submit the form. A QR code will be sent to your registered email address. It's recommended to save a screenshot of this QR code on your phone as a backup in case of connectivity issues at the airport.
Important Things to Remember
Timing is key when it comes to the TDAC. You can only complete and submit the form within 72 hours (three days) before your arrival in Thailand. Submitting it earlier will not work. It's a single-use declaration and a new one must be completed for every trip you make to the country. For context, as of July 2026, Indian passport holders continue to enjoy visa-free entry, allowing a stay of up to 30 days. The TDAC is a separate, mandatory requirement that complements this visa policy, ensuring your details are in the system for a quick scan and approval upon landing. A new mobile app called THIM is also expected to launch, which may further streamline this process by allowing passport details to be auto-filled from a photo.
