Thailand - Digital Arrival Card Requirement – A Complete Guide.

2025/04/05

Thailand to Implement Digital Arrival Card Requirement Starting May 2025 – A Complete Guide on How to Apply


Beginning May 1, 2025, all international visitors traveling to Thailand will be required to submit an online Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) prior to entry. This digital initiative will replace the traditional paper-based TM6 form, offering a more streamlined and efficient immigration experience.



Thailand is set to modernize its border entry procedures by transitioning from the TM6 paper arrival card to a fully digital system. This new policy, effective from May 2025, will require all foreign visitors to submit their TDAC online within 72 hours before their arrival, ensuring a quicker and smoother immigration process for travelers arriving by air, land, or sea.



What is the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC)?



The TDAC is a digital entry form designed to replace the outdated paper-based TM6 form. All travelers, regardless of their visa status, must complete the TDAC within 72 hours of entering Thailand. This update is intended to expedite the immigration process, reduce manual paperwork, and provide a more efficient entry experience.

The Transition from Paper to Digital: Bid Farewell to the TM6 Form


Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, international visitors were required to fill out a paper-based TM6 form upon arrival in Thailand. Although the TM6 was temporarily suspended during the pandemic, the country has now fully embraced the TDAC system, making it a mandatory requirement for all foreign arrivals.



Key Features of the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC)


The TDAC is compulsory for most travelers, with some exceptions, and offers a number of key benefits. It is completely online, eliminating the need for paper forms. Travelers must complete the card within 72 hours before arrival. Whether or not you have a visa, the TDAC is required. The system can be accessed through the official platform at tdac.immigration.go.th, where the digital card can be submitted and either printed or saved to be presented at immigration.



Who Needs to Complete the TDAC?



The TDAC is required for all international visitors arriving in Thailand, regardless of whether they possess a visa. However, certain groups are exempt from this requirement, including transit passengers who do not pass through Thai immigration and travelers with border passes who are using designated land entry points.



How to Apply for the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC)


To ensure a hassle-free entry to Thailand, follow these straightforward steps to apply for your TDAC:



Start by visiting the official TDAC website at tdac.immigration.go.th. Select the "Arrival Card" option, which will take you to the online application form. Begin by entering your personal details such as your full name, birthdate, nationality, passport number, and visa number, if applicable. Once this information is entered, click "Continue."



Next, provide details about your travel plans, including your anticipated arrival date, mode of transportation, purpose of visit, and the address where you will be staying in Thailand. After filling out this section, click "Continue" to proceed.



You will then be prompted to complete a health declaration by listing any countries you have visited in the last 14 days. This health check is a requirement set by Thailand’s Ministry of Public Health to safeguard the health of incoming travelers.

Once all required information has been entered, you will be presented with a summary of your application. Carefully review this summary to ensure that all information is accurate. If you find any errors, make corrections before continuing.

Then, provide a valid email address where your TDAC will be sent as a PDF file. This email should be one that you have access to while traveling, as you will need it upon arrival in Thailand.



Finally, after accepting the terms of use, submit your application. Your digital arrival card will be generated immediately. You can download and save the card to your phone or print it out to show at immigration.



Along with the TDAC implementation, Thailand is currently reviewing a proposal to shorten the visa-free stay for travelers from 93 visa-exempt countries. Under this proposal, the current 60-day stay could be reduced to 30 days. While the change is still under consideration, it has sparked debate among stakeholders, with some in favor of the proposal for better tourist flow regulation, while others are concerned it might discourage long-term tourism.



Conclusion


The Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) marks a significant step forward in creating a more efficient and seamless travel experience for international visitors. With the ease of an online submission system, the process of entering Thailand will be faster, more secure, and more convenient for everyone.



For the latest updates and assistance regarding the TDAC or any other travel and visa-related requirements, feel free to reach out to Marvel Travels – Corporate & Leisure. Our expert team is here to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey for you.