Thailand has stepped into the future of travel with the launch of its new Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC). Introduced on May 1, 2025, this digital system has replaced the old paper-based TM6 arrival card, making entry into Thailand smoother, faster, and more efficient for international travellers.
Whether you’re heading to Thailand for a relaxing beach holiday in Krabi or attending a business conference in Bangkok, completing the TDAC is now a mandatory step before arrival. This applies to all foreign nationals, including Indian travellers, who currently enjoy visa-free entry to Thailand for up to 60 days.
By integrating digital submission with Thailand’s advanced biometric systems, the TDAC significantly reduces paperwork and speeds up immigration clearance at airports, land borders, and seaports.
What Is the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC)?
The Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) is an online arrival form that replaces the traditional paper TM6 card previously filled out by foreign travellers entering Thailand.
The TDAC was introduced to:
- Improve the efficiency of Thailand’s immigration process
- Reduce paperwork and manual data entry
- Support public health and safety monitoring
- Enable smoother integration with digital and biometric systems
This digital form must be completed before travelling to Thailand and presented to immigration authorities upon arrival.
Is TDAC Mandatory for Indians Travelling to Thailand?
Yes. The Thailand Digital Arrival Card is mandatory for all foreign nationals, including Indian travellers, starting May 1, 2025.
Even though Indians can enter Thailand visa-free, they are still required to complete the TDAC. It is important to note that:
- TDAC does not replace a visa
- Travellers must still hold a valid visa or qualify under Thailand’s visa-exemption rules
Failure to complete the TDAC may result in entry delays or denial of entry into Thailand.
Who Needs to Submit the Thailand Digital Arrival Card?
The TDAC must be submitted by:
- All non-Thai citizens, regardless of visa type (tourist, business, student, etc.)
- Indian nationals, even though Thailand offers visa-free entry to Indians
Who Is Exempt?
- Thai citizens
- Permanent residents of Thailand
These groups are not required to fill out the Thailand Digital Arrival Card.
When Should You Submit the TDAC When Travelling from India?
Travellers must submit the Thailand Digital Arrival Card within 3 days (72 hours) before arrival in Thailand.
The TDAC requires basic details such as:
- Full name and passport number
- Travel dates and flight details
- Accommodation details in Thailand
- Health declarations
Submitting the form within the allowed timeframe is essential to avoid travel disruptions.
How Does the Thailand Digital Arrival Card System Work?
Once the TDAC is submitted through the official website or approved application, travellers receive a confirmation email or PDF.
This confirmation must be shown to immigration officers upon arrival in Thailand along with other travel documents. The TDAC is not a visa, but it is a compulsory entry requirement.
Requirements for the Thailand Digital Arrival Card
To complete the TDAC, travellers need to provide:
- Passport details
- Personal information
- Travel information
- Accommodation details in Thailand
- Health declaration
From May 1, 2025, all non-Thai nationals entering Thailand by air, land, or sea must complete the TDAC online before arrival.
How to Complete the TDAC in 4 Easy Steps
Step 1: Log in to the Portal
Register at https://tdac.immigration.go.th or scan the official QR code provided by authorities.
Step 2: Complete Your Registration
Fill in:
- Personal information (full name, nationality, phone number, email, passport details)
- Trip details (flight number, purpose of travel, and address in Thailand)
Step 3: Submit the Form
After submission, an acknowledgment email will be sent to you.
Step 4: Immigration Verification
Present the acknowledgment email along with your travel documents at the immigration counter.
Reminder: The TDAC must be submitted within 3 days before arrival to avoid delays.
How to Apply for TDAC from India
Indian travellers can apply for the TDAC by following these steps:
- Visit the Official TDAC Website https://tdac.immigration.go.th/
Use only the official Thailand Digital Arrival Card portal to avoid scams or unofficial fees. - Choose the Type of Submission
Select whether you are applying as an individual or as part of a group (family or tour group). - Fill in the Required Information
Enter passport details, personal information, travel itinerary, accommodation in Thailand, and health declarations. - Review and Submit the Application
Carefully verify all details before submitting the form. - Download the Confirmation
Save a digital copy or print the confirmation to present upon arrival in Thailand.
TDAC Fee for Indians
The Thailand Digital Arrival Card is completely free for Indian travellers and all other foreign nationals.
Travellers should be cautious of unofficial websites or agents attempting to charge fees. Always submit your TDAC through the official portal only.
Can You Edit the TDAC After Submission?
Yes, most details can be edited anytime before travel.
However, certain core details cannot be changed, including:
- Name
- Passport number
- Nationality
If these details need correction, a new TDAC application must be submitted.
How to Edit the Thailand Digital Arrival Card After Submission
To edit your TDAC:
- Visit the TDAC website and select “Update Arrival Card”
- Enter your reference number and passport details or date of birth
- Update allowed fields such as travel dates, contact details, or accommodation
- Review and resubmit the updated form
- Save the updated confirmation for travel
Key Benefits of the Thailand Digital Arrival Card System
- Faster Immigration Clearance: Reduced waiting time at entry points in Thailand
- Convenient Online Submission: No paperwork during transit
- Improved Accuracy and Security: Fewer errors and safer data handling
- Public Health Monitoring Support: Efficient traveller tracking
- Eco-Friendly and Integrated: Paperless system aligned with digital travel infrastructure
Important Travel Reminder for Thailand
While the TDAC simplifies entry into Thailand, travellers are encouraged to secure a comprehensive travel insurance plan. Coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or lost belongings provides added safety and peace of mind, even for visa-free travel.
Also Read….Thailand Travel Guide 2026: Visa, Top Cities, Beaches, Food, Nightlife & Budget Tips
