Starting May 1, 2025, all international travelers to Thailand will be required to complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) before entering the country. This new online process replaces the traditional paper arrival card and aims to make the entry experience faster, smoother, and more efficient.
The TDAC is essentially the digital version of the old TM6 form that travelers used to fill out on arrival. Now, instead of filling it out on the plane or at the airport, visitors must complete it online within 3 days before their arrival. The form includes basic travel details and a short health declaration, as required by Thailand’s Ministry of Public Health.
Travelers can register by scanning the provided QR code or by visiting the official TDAC website: http://tdac.immigration.go.th. The process is simple and designed to save you time when going through immigration.
This rule applies to all non-Thai nationals entering Thailand by air, land, or sea. However, there are exceptions. If you are in transit and not passing through immigration control, or simply transferring flights, you won’t need to complete the TDAC.
According to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), the new system offers many benefits, including faster immigration clearance, reduced paperwork, and enhanced data accuracy. It’s also a step toward modernizing Thailand’s travel procedures in line with other countries in the region.
For visitors planning a longer stay in Thailand, there are a few more rules to keep in mind. Anyone staying for more than 90 days must notify the nearest immigration office in writing. This report must be submitted every 90 days during your stay. In addition, foreign nationals are not allowed to work in Thailand without a valid work permit.
Thailand joins several other countries in adopting digital arrival systems. South Korea launched its e-Arrival Card in early 2024, Japan has the Visit Japan Web for pre-arrival registration, and Malaysia has long implemented its own Digital Arrival Card. These systems have helped streamline the immigration process while improving health and security checks.
Thailand is also phasing out the TM6 paper form that used to be required for foreign visitors. By going digital, the country hopes to reduce paperwork, improve efficiency, and offer a more convenient experience for tourists.
So, if you’re planning a trip to Thailand, remember to fill in your TDAC online before you go. It’s a small step that can make a big difference in ensuring a smooth and stress-free arrival.