As of May 1, 2025, the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) will be mandatory for all foreign travelers entering the Kingdom of Thailand. This transition marks the end of the traditional paper-based TM6 forms, streamlining the entry process significantly. Regardless of the mode of arrival, whether by air, land, or sea, travelers will need to complete this digital form within 72 hours before their arrival, ensuring a more efficient and organized immigration procedure.
Introduction to the TDAC Arrival Card
Starting May 1, 2025, the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) will be a mandatory requirement for all foreign travelers entering Thailand. This digital procedure aims to simplify entry formalities by replacing the traditional paper TM6 forms. The TDAC is designed to streamline the arrival process for visitors to the Kingdom of Siam, ensuring a more efficient and secure experience.
The Transition from TM6 to TDAC
The announcement to say goodbye to the TM6 paper forms has been in place since January, and the implementation of the TDAC represents a significant shift in Thailand’s immigration procedures. As of May 2025, every traveler arriving in Thailand, regardless of their visa status, will need to complete the digital arrival card within 72 hours prior to their arrival.
How to Complete the TDAC
The process of filling out the TDAC is designed to be quick and user-friendly. Here are the essential steps:
Accessing the Official Website
Travelers can begin the process by visiting tdac.immigration.go.th and selecting the “Arrival Card” option.
Filling in Personal Information
Travelers will be required to provide their personal details, including their full name, date of birth, nationality, passport number, and, if applicable, visa number. This vital information forms the basis of your arrival card.
Entering Travel Details
Next, individuals must include their travel information, such as date of arrival, means of transport, purpose of stay, and their accommodation details in Thailand. This step is crucial for establishing the context for their visit.
Health Declaration
To comply with health regulations mandated by the Thai Ministry of Public Health, travelers are also required to declare their health situation by listing any countries they visited within the 14 days prior to their arrival in Thailand.
Reviewing Information
After all information has been submitted, a summary will be generated for the traveler to review and make any necessary corrections before final submission.
Submitting the TDAC
Once all details are verified, travelers need to provide their email address to receive the TDAC as a PDF file. By accepting the terms and conditions and clicking “Submit,” the digital arrival card is generated instantly.
Important Exceptions to the TDAC Requirement
It is essential to note that not all travelers will need to complete the TDAC. Individuals in transit, without passing through immigration control, and those with a “Border Pass” for specific crossings are exempt from this requirement.
Benefits of the TDAC System
The introduction of the TDAC arrival card enhances efficiency and security in the administrative control of visitors. By centralizing visitor data, Thai authorities will bolster sanitary measures and streamline entry procedures. This system is part of a broader migration policy transformation in Thailand, which also includes the deployment of electronic visas (e-Visa). It is critical to clarify that obtaining a TDAC does not equate to visa approval.
Future Tourism Developments
Regarding other upcoming tourism changes, there are discussions about the reintroduction of a tourist tax and the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). Initially planned for implementation in 2025, these developments have been postponed to ensure the TDAC system functions effectively before adding additional costs. Additionally, changes concerning the visa-free stay duration are anticipated in the coming weeks.
- Requirement Date: May 1, 2025
- Card Type: Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC)
- Replaces: TM6 paper form
- Who Needs It: All foreign travelers
- Submission Timeframe: Within 72 hours prior to entry
- Arrival Methods: Air, land, or sea
- Information Needed: Personal and travel details
- Health Declaration: Countries visited in the last 14 days
- Confirmation: Summary for proofreading sent via email
- Card Format: PDF download
Starting May 1, 2025, the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) will be mandatory for all travelers entering Thailand. This digital procedure replaces the traditional TM6 paper forms and must be completed within 72 hours prior to arrival, regardless of whether one has a visa. The TDAC simplifies the entry process by allowing travelers to fill in their personal and travel information online, including health declarations. It is crucial for all visitors to maintain a digital or printed copy of the TDAC during their stay, as it will be needed at immigration.
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