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Starting May 1, 2025, all foreign travelers entering Thailand must complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) online. This new digital system replaces the paper-based TM6 form, ensuring a faster and more efficient immigration process.
Thailand is set to revolutionize its entry procedures by replacing the traditional TM6 paper form with a fully digital Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) system.
Starting May 1, 2025, all foreign travellers must complete the Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) within 72 hours before arrival. This move aims to modernize border control and streamline entry formalities for visitors arriving by air, land, or sea.
What is the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC)?
The Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) is an online entry form that replaces the traditional TM6 paper-based arrival card. All international travellers must complete it within 72 hours before arriving in Thailand to ensure a faster and more efficient immigration process.
From Paper to Digital: The End of TM6 Forms
Before the COVID-19 pandemic, Thailand required international travellers to fill out a paper-based arrival card (TM6 form). The country temporarily suspended this requirement during the pandemic. Now, Thailand has introduced the TDAC, making digital registration mandatory for all foreign arrivals.
Key Highlights of the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC)
• Mandatory for all foreign travellers (except certain transit passengers and border pass holders).
• Completely online – no more paper forms.
• Must be completed within 72 hours before arrival.
• Applies to travellers with and without a visa.
• Accessible via the official platform: tdac.immigration.go.th.
• Digital or printed TDAC must be presented at immigration.
Who Needs to Fill Out the TDAC?
The Thailand Digital Arrival Card is required for all travellers, regardless of whether they hold a visa. However, two categories of passengers are exempt:
• Transit passengers who do not go through Thai immigration.
• Border pass holders using designated land crossings.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for the Thailand Digital Arrival Card
To ensure a smooth and hassle-free entry, follow these steps to complete your TDAC:
1. Visit the Official Website
To apply for the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC), start by visiting the official website at tdac.immigration.go.th and selecting the “Arrival Card” option. This will take you to the online form where you need to provide essential details.
2. Enter Personal Information
Begin by entering your personal information, including your full name, date of birth, nationality, passport number, and visa number (if applicable). Once you have filled in these details, click “Continue” to proceed.
3. Provide Travel Details
Next, provide your travel details, such as your expected date of arrival, mode of transport, purpose of visit, and the address of your accommodation in Thailand. After completing this section, click “Continue” to move forward.
4. Complete Health Declaration
You will then need to complete the health declaration by listing any countries you have visited in the past 14 days. This step is a requirement set by the Thai Ministry of Public Health to monitor and manage health risks for incoming travellers.
5. Review & Confirm Information
After entering all the necessary details, you will be shown a summary of your application. Carefully review all the information provided and ensure there are no errors. If you find any mistakes, make the necessary corrections before proceeding.
6. Provide an Email Address
In the next step, enter a valid email address where your TDAC will be sent as a PDF file. It is essential to use an email account you can access while traveling, as you will need this document upon arrival in Thailand.
7. Submit & Download Your TDAC
Finally, accept the terms of use and submit your application. The digital arrival card will be generated immediately. Download and save a copy to your phone or print it out to present to Thai immigration authorities upon arrival.
Why Thailand is Moving to a Digital System
The introduction of the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) is part of the country’s broader effort to improve efficiency and enhance security. Key benefits include:
• Faster immigration processing – reducing wait times for travellers.
• Better visitor data management – allowing authorities to track arrivals efficiently.
• Enhanced health monitoring – particularly post-pandemic.
• Eco-friendly initiative – cutting down on paper use.
Upcoming Changes: Shorter Visa-Free Stay Under Consideration
Alongside the TDAC rollout, Thailand is considering reducing visa-free stays for travellers from 93 visa-exempt countries. The current 60-day visa-free stay could be reduced to 30 days. While this is still under review, the proposal has sparked debate:
• Supporters argue it will help regulate tourist flows and prevent overstay issues.
• Critics fear it may discourage long-term tourism, especially as the country recovers from pandemic-related setbacks.
Thailand Joins the Digital Immigration Trend
Thailand is not alone in transitioning to a digital entry system. Several countries, including Cambodia, Malaysia, Cuba, and South Korea, have already introduced similar electronic arrival forms to enhance efficiency and improve security.
Final Thoughts
The Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) is a major step toward a seamless, paperless entry process for international travellers. With an easy-to-use online system and a focus on efficiency, Thailand is making immigration faster, safer, and more convenient for visitors.
Source: https://travelobiz.com/thailand-digital-arrival-card-2025-step-by-step-guide/
