Understanding the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC)
Gone are the days of frantically searching for a pen to fill out a paper form on your descent into Bangkok. Thailand has streamlined its entry process with the mandatory Thailand Digital Arrival Card, or TDAC. This digital system completely replaced the old
paper-based TM6 form in May 2025. It is not a visa, but rather a required registration for all foreign nationals entering the country, whether by air, land, or sea. The purpose is to digitise and speed up the immigration process, allowing officials to have your information pre-screened before you even reach the counter. The TDAC is free to submit through the official government portal.
Why You Must Complete the TDAC in Advance
While it's technically possible to fill out the form at kiosks upon arrival, preparing your TDAC before you leave home is highly recommended. The primary benefit is speed. With a completed TDAC, you present a QR code along with your passport, allowing for much quicker processing through immigration. This means less time spent in a queue after a long flight and more time to begin your adventure. Filing in advance also reduces the chance of errors that can happen when you're tired and rushing. Furthermore, some airlines may check for your TDAC confirmation before allowing you to board, so having it ready prevents any last-minute panic at your departure airport.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Your Application
Completing the TDAC is straightforward. First, gather your necessary documents: your passport (which must be valid for at least six months from your entry date), your flight details (including flight number and arrival date), and the address of your accommodation in Thailand. You must submit the form within a specific window: between 24 and 72 hours before your arrival. Submitting it earlier will result in the application being rejected. Navigate to the official website, which is tdac.immigration.go.th. Be wary of third-party sites that charge a fee. The process is free on the official portal. Follow the prompts to fill in your personal, travel, and accommodation details. After submitting, you will receive a confirmation email with a unique QR code. Save this code to your phone or take a screenshot to present at the immigration counter.
Key Reminders and Important Considerations
Every foreign traveller, including children, needs their own completed TDAC. The QR code is for a single entry; you must complete a new TDAC for every trip you make to Thailand. While filling out the form, you will be asked for your visa type. You can select 'Visa Exemption' if you are from an eligible country, 'Visa on Arrival', or input your visa number if you have already secured one. In addition to your TDAC QR code and passport, immigration officers may ask for proof of an onward or return ticket, proof of accommodation, and evidence of sufficient funds for your stay (typically 10,000 THB per person). Keep these documents easily accessible. As of August 2026, a new mobile app called THIM is also being rolled out and will become mandatory, integrating the TDAC function into a user profile for even faster future submissions.
