Mandatory from May 2025: Everything You Need to Know About Thailand’s Digital Arrival Card (TDAC)
Starting May 1, 2025, all foreign travelers entering Thailand must complete an online registration for the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC). The traditional paper-based TM6 immigration card will be officially discontinued, and regardless of whether you arrive by air, land, or sea, you’ll need to submit your TDAC information online prior to entry. In this article, we break down what TDAC is, how to register, and important points to keep in mind.
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1. What is TDAC and How Is It Different from the TM6 Card?
The Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) is a digital alternative to the old TM6 immigration form, developed by the Thai Immigration Bureau. Traditionally, travelers had to fill out TM6 cards by hand on flights or at airports. With TDAC, this process is now streamlined and digitized, enhancing both efficiency and security at immigration checkpoints.
2. When Does TDAC Become Mandatory and Who Must Submit It?
TDAC registration becomes mandatory from May 1, 2025. It applies to all non-Thai nationals entering Thailand, regardless of their mode of entry—air, land, or sea.
Exceptions include:
- Transit passengers who do not go through Thai immigration
- Travelers entering with a border pass (usually for short visits from neighboring countries)
3. When and Where to Register? Step-by-Step Process
TDAC registration is free and can be completed online via the official immigration portal. Registration must be completed within 3 days before your scheduled arrival in Thailand, including the date of arrival. For example, if you’re arriving on May 10, you can register starting May 8.
▼ TDAC registration form:
https://tdac.immigration.go.th/arrival-card/#/home
Information required for registration includes:
- Passport details
- Personal information (name, date of birth, occupation, phone number, residence address)
- Travel details (flight number, departure and arrival times)
- Accommodation in Thailand (hotel name and address)
- Health declaration (e.g., recent visits to yellow fever risk countries within 14 days)
Once completed, you will receive a confirmation—likely in the form of a QR code or downloadable file—which should be saved on your phone or printed for presentation upon arrival.
4. Why TDAC? Benefits and Purpose
The TDAC system offers numerous benefits:
- Efficiency: Speeds up immigration processing, especially in busy airports like Bangkok or Phuket
- Accuracy: Minimizes handwritten errors and improves data collection
- Sustainability: Supports paperless travel initiatives and environmental goals
Thailand is also considering integrating TDAC with other systems like the 300-baht tourism tax and the future Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) to streamline the entry process even further.
5. Key Reminders and Common Questions
- Free Registration: Be cautious of third-party websites that may try to charge fees.
- Cannot Edit Some Fields: If you make an error in your name or passport number, you must re-submit a new form.
- Delays Possible Without Registration: Forgetting to register may result in longer wait times at immigration.
- No Mobile App Yet: Currently, registration must be done via a browser (mobile or desktop).
Authorities may verify TDAC registration at the immigration checkpoint, so it’s best to prepare in advance.
[Conclusion]
Thailand’s immigration process is going fully digital starting May 2025. With the discontinuation of the TM6 card, all foreign travelers must now register online through the TDAC system before arriving in the country. To ensure a smooth entry, gather your travel information early and complete the registration within 3 days of arrival. Stay updated via official channels such as the Thai Immigration Bureau or embassies to ensure compliance and a hassle-free travel experience.
