Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC): What Foreigners Need to Know Before Entering Thailand

If you’re planning to enter Thailand in 2025, there’s an important immigration update you cannot ignore.

As of 1 May 2025, Thailand requires most foreign nationals entering the country by air, land, or sea to complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) before arrival. This new online system replaces the old paper TM6 arrival form and is now part of Thailand’s immigration entry process.

However, many travelers are still confused about who needs to register, when to submit the form, and whether there are fees involved.

Even worse, scam websites have already appeared pretending to offer TDAC registration services for payment—even though the official TDAC system is completely free.

Here’s what every foreign traveler should know before entering Thailand.

What Is Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC)?

The Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) is the new online immigration entry registration system that replaces the traditional paper TM6 arrival form.

From 1 May 2025, most foreign nationals entering Thailand by air, land, or sea are required to complete the TDAC before arrival.

This digital system is designed to simplify immigration procedures, reduce paperwork, and improve border processing efficiency.

Unlike the old TM6 card that travelers completed manually during flights or at checkpoints, TDAC is submitted online in advance.

The registration is currently free through the official immigration platform.

Who Needs To Submit TDAC?

Most foreign travelers entering Thailand must complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card before arrival.

This generally includes:

• Tourists entering Thailand

• Business travelers

• Foreign employees entering with work-related visas

• Visa exemption travelers

• Visa on Arrival applicants

• Long-term visa holders returning to Thailand

However, exceptions may apply depending on immigration policy updates.

Travelers should always verify their eligibility through official Thai immigration sources before departure.

When Should You Complete TDAC?

Travelers should complete the TDAC before arriving in Thailand.

It is strongly recommended to submit the form several days before departure to avoid delays, last-minute technical issues, or incomplete submissions.

Waiting until airport check-in may create unnecessary stress if details are missing or if the website experiences high traffic.

For business travelers and families, early submission is especially advisable.

What Information Do You Need?

Before completing the TDAC, prepare the following information:

Personal Information

• Full name

• Nationality

• Date of birth

• Passport number

Travel Information

• Flight number or transport details

• Arrival date

• Departure country

Accommodation Details

• Hotel name or residential address in Thailand

Contact Information

• Email address

• Phone number

Accuracy is important.

Incorrect passport numbers, spelling errors, or incomplete accommodation details may cause immigration complications.

Common TDAC Mistakes Travelers Make

Many travelers make avoidable mistakes during registration.

Common errors include:

Using unofficial websites

Some third-party sites pretend to offer TDAC registration services and may charge unnecessary fees.

The official TDAC submission is free.

Entering incorrect passport details

Even a small typo can create immigration delays.

Always double-check passport numbers and full legal names.

Waiting until the last minute

Submitting the form shortly before departure increases the risk of mistakes or technical issues.

Using incomplete accommodation information

Generic hotel names or unclear addresses may create problems.

Beware of Fake TDAC Websites

Because TDAC is a new immigration process, scam websites have already appeared claiming to offer "fast registration" services.

These sites may:

• charge fake processing fees

• collect personal passport information

• imitate official government pages

Travelers should only use official Thai immigration channels.

If uncertain, consult an immigration professional before submitting personal information online.

Why This Matters For Employers And Business Travelers

This immigration update also affects companies hiring foreign staff and business travelers entering Thailand.

Incorrect documentation or missed entry requirements can disrupt:

• employee arrivals

• urgent business travel

• client meetings

• relocation schedules

• visa compliance timelines

Businesses relying on international staff should ensure employees understand updated immigration procedures.

Need Professional Help With Thailand Immigration?

Thailand immigration rules can change quickly, and mistakes may cause delays, denied entry, or visa complications.

If you are unsure whether the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) applies to your case, or need assistance with visa and immigration matters, our team can help.

Book a consultation with Wisdom Consulting for professional immigration support.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is TDAC mandatory for all foreigners entering Thailand?

Most foreign travelers entering Thailand are required to complete TDAC, subject to official immigration exemptions.

Is Thailand TDAC free?

Yes. The official TDAC registration is free.

Can I submit TDAC at the airport?

Possible in some cases, but strongly discouraged. Completing it in advance is safer.

What happens if I enter incorrect information?

Incorrect information may delay immigration clearance or require correction.

Are paid TDAC registration websites official?

No. Travelers should be cautious of unofficial third-party websites.