Thailand has recently introduced a new rule for travellers and we have all the information you need here. Starting May 1, 2025, all foreign visitors need to fill out a shiny new electronic form called the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) before they arrive.
Don’t worry, it’s not as scary as it sounds. But if you’re planning a trip to Thailand soon, here's everything you need to know about the new form, why it matters, and how to make sure it doesn’t mess with your travel plans. Below, we will tell you everything you need to do about this new entry form so you can be prepared.
What is the TDAC, exactly?
The Thailand Digital Arrival Card is the new online version of the old TM6 paper form you may remember from previous trips. You used to get handed that little blue-and-white card on the plane and scramble to fill it in mid-turbulence with a pen that barely worked. Now, it’s digital.
You’ll need to complete the TDAC at least 72 hours before you arrive in Thailand, whether you're coming by air, land, or sea. That means it’s just as essential as your passport or boarding pass. But unlike those, no one at the check-in desk is going to remind you.
Who needs to fill it in?
Pretty much anyone with a foreign passport. That includes:
- Tourists
- Business travellers
- Long-term visa holders
- Digital nomads chasing sunsets
- Backpackers
The only people who don’t need to fill it in are those transiting through Thailand without clearing immigration, and those entering using a Border Pass for short, local trips from neighbouring countries.
Thailand Electronic Entry Form vs. Visa: What’s the difference?
This is where a lot of travellers could get confused, so let’s clear it up. The TDAC is not a visa, and it doesn’t replace one. It’s an additional, mandatory form that all foreign visitors must complete before arriving in Thailand, no matter what kind of visa situation you’re in.
So even if you’re eligible for visa-free entry, you still need to fill out the TDAC. If you’re from a country that requires a visa, you’ll still need to apply for one as usual before you travel.
The TDAC is more like a digital arrival notification: a way for Thai immigration to gather traveller info in advance. It helps them manage things like security, immigration flow, and public health. A visa, on the other hand, is what gives you permission to actually enter and stay in the country.
In short: the TDAC and your visa (or visa exemption) are two separate things, and you’ll likely need both. Make sure you check exactly what you need well in advance of your travels.
Why is Thailand doing this?
According to the Thailand Immigration Bureau, this new process is designed to:
- Strengthen border security
- Improve public health management
- Make immigration procedures more efficient
In other words, Thailand wants a better way to manage who’s entering the country. Having your details ahead of time should help immigration officers process arrivals faster, which might mean shorter queues at the airport. So, it’s a win/win situation.
How do I fill out the TDAC?
It’s quick, it’s online, and it’s currently free. Head to the official Thailand Immigration Bureau website and look for the TDAC application.
You’ll be asked to provide:
- Your passport details
- Your nationality and citizenship
- Your travel and accommodation plans
- A brief health declaration (including countries you’ve visited in the last 14 days)
The form should only take 10 to 15 minutes to complete. Once submitted, you’ll receive a confirmation. Keep a screenshot or save the email. You might need to show it when you check in or when you land in Thailand, so having it saved and easily accessible is super important.
What happens if I forget?
Thailand has said this form will be mandatory. If you show up without it, you might face:
- Delays at immigration (no good)
- Being denied entry
- A last-minute scramble to fill it in on your phone with airport Wi-Fi
In short, don’t risk it. Set a reminder to complete it a few days before your flight.
What does the TDAC replace?
The TDAC replaces the old TM6 paper arrival card, which you used to complete on the plane. It asked for your passport info, flight details, and address in Thailand.
Now you fill all that out in advance, so it’s one less thing to worry about mid-flight. Just another way Thailand is trying to digitise and speed up the entry process.
Pro Tips for TDAC Success:
- Do it early. Fill it out at least 72 hours before you land.
- Use the official website. Only trust the Thailand Immigration Bureau.
- Have your info ready. Passport, travel plans, accommodation.
- Save the confirmation. Screenshot or print it, just in case.
- Don’t assume you’re exempt. If you’re going through immigration, you’ll need to submit it.
Thailand is one of the world’s most beloved destinations. But new rules like the TDAC mean it’s more important than ever to plan ahead and stay in the know.
Before you start daydreaming about coconut shakes and island hopping (ah, bliss), add the TDAC to your pre-travel checklist. It’s free, easy to complete, and helps you avoid unnecessary setbacks. Don’t let paperwork ruin your pad Thai dreams! In addition, don't forget that the TDAC is not the same as the Thailand visa so you will need to deal with both separately.
While you’re getting your paperwork in order, don’t forget the other thing that can make or break a trip: travel insurance. Even though Thailand is a dream destination, even dream trips can hit a few snags. From flight delays to scooter mishaps (we’ve all seen those banana pancake trail wipeouts), travel insurance can help cover unexpected costs and take the stress out of the unknown. Better to be prepared than finding yourself with a hefty bill. That’s money that could be spend on another flight, or a breezy road trip. Don’t say we didn’t warn you!
Gigasure offers Travel Insurance tailored for trips just like this. Whether you need cover for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or even lost luggage, Gigasure has got your back. It’s flexible, reliable, and built for modern travellers.
And here’s a smart perk if you’re flying: GigaShield Flight Delay gives you access to an airport lounge or a prompt cash payment if your flight is delayed by 3 hours or more. The benefit is added automatically when you choose a Gigasure policy that includes Travel and Baggage Delay cover, and it’s super easy to activate. You just pop your flight details into the Gigasure app before you go. Pretty awesome, right?
Make sure you’re covered while travelling to Thailand. See our Thailand Travel Insurance and head off knowing you're protected from the start.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to complete the TDAC if I’ve been to Thailand before?
Yes, you are still required to complete the TDAC, even if you have visited Thailand in the past. The Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) is a mandatory form for all foreign visitors, regardless of whether you've been to the country before or not. This requirement applies to everyone: previous trips, visas, or entry stamps do not exempt you from filling out the TDAC. You can find out more about the TDAC here.
If I have a Thailand visa, do I still need the TDAC?
Yes, you do need both. The Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) is not the same as the Thailand visa. It’s an additional entry requirement, not a replacement. So even if you complete the TDAC, you still need a valid visa or you must qualify for a visa exemption, depending on your nationality and the purpose of your trip. It’s super important to establish what you need in advance.
Can I submit the TDAC on the day of my flight?
No, submitting the TDAC on the day of your flight is not permitted. You must complete the form at least 72 hours before your scheduled arrival in Thailand. This means that you need to submit the TDAC three full days ahead of the time you are expected to land in the country, not just when you're about to leave for the airport.
Is there an app for the TDAC?
Currently, there is no official app available for submitting the TDAC. As of now, you are required to complete the form directly on the Thailand Immigration Bureau’s official website. Always ensure that you are submitting the TDAC on the authorized, official site to guarantee a smooth entry into Thailand. Keep an eye on updates, as there may be new developments regarding an app in the future.
