Thailand remains a top destination for those seeking sun, island escapes, and ridiculously delicious street food. But before you start dreaming of mango sticky rice or beach sunsets in Krabi, there’s a new step to tick off your pre-travel to-dos.
From 1 May 2025, Thailand is phasing out the old TM6 paper-based immigration form and replacing it with the new Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC). The goal? To speed up the arrival process, reduce lines at immigration, and make things more convenient for tourists.
The digital form must be completed online before arrival, with the exception of a few cases.
What is the TDAC?
The TDAC is a digital form that travellers must complete online before arriving in Thailand. It collects basic information like your personal details, travel plans, passport number, and address in Thailand.
Once submitted, it generates a digital confirmation you’ll present to immigration officials upon arrival. This applies to most international visitors, whether you’re arriving for vacation, business, or a short stopover.
Who needs it?
Every non-Thai traveller must submit the TDAC before entering Thailand, regardless of nationality or visa type. This includes:
- Tourists from visa-exempt countries
- Visitors holding tourist, business, or other types of visas
- All travellers arriving by air, road, or sea
- Individuals transiting through Thailand, even if they don’t plan to stay long
The only exceptions are those transiting through Thailand without going through immigration and Malaysian citizens using a Border Pass (from Kedah, Perlis, Kelantan, or Hulu Perak).
Step-by-step: How to complete the TDAC
- Go to the official site: http://tdac.immigration.go.th
- Fill in your info: name, nationality, phone number, email, and passport details.
- Enter your trip info: flight number, travel purpose, and address in Thailand (hotel or residence).
- Submit the form and check your email for confirmation. You should complete this at least 72 hours before departure to avoid any delays or issues at the airport.
- Upon arrival in Thailand, show your acknowledgement email and travel documents to immigration officers.
The new online form is just a minor speed bump in an otherwise smooth journey. Think of it as part of the modern travel checklist!
