Thailand's New Entry Card Explained: How to Complete the TDAC (Digital Arrival Card) Before You Fly
Important Update — Effective May 1, 2025
The paper TM6 arrival card has been permanently discontinued. As of May 1, 2025, all foreign nationals entering Thailand are required to complete the TDAC (Thailand Digital Arrival Card) online before arrival. There are no more paper forms handed out on the plane.
After 15 years of living in Bangkok, I've watched Thailand's entry procedures change more times than I can count. But this one is significant. The TM6 paper card that every traveler used to fill out mid-flight is gone. In its place: a digital system you complete at home, on your phone, before you even pack your bags. Here's everything you need to know — including how to avoid the scam sites that have already appeared.
What Is the TDAC and How Is It Different from TM6?
The TDAC (Thailand Digital Arrival Card) is the online system introduced by Thailand's Immigration Bureau on May 1, 2025, to replace the paper TM6 arrival card that had been in use for decades.
| Detail | Old TM6 (Paper) | TDAC (Digital) — Current |
|---|---|---|
| How to complete | By hand on the plane or at the airport | Online in advance — phone or computer |
| When to complete | Day of arrival | Within 72 hours before arrival |
| Submission method | Hand over paper card | Show QR code at immigration |
| Cost | Free | Free (official site only) |
| Language support | English only | Multiple languages including Korean |
| Who must complete it | All foreign nationals | All foreign nationals (including visa-exempt) |
BYB's Take
Filling in a TM6 on the plane was one of those small rituals that came with every trip to Thailand. That era is over. The new system is actually more convenient — complete it the night before, save the QR code, done. What it's not is optional. Airlines are increasingly checking at check-in, and immigration won't hand you a paper form at the counter. Do it in advance.
Who Needs to Complete the TDAC?
Required for:
- All foreign nationals entering Thailand — by air, land, or sea
- Visa-exempt travelers
- Transit passengers who clear Thai immigration
- Long-term residents and those re-entering Thailand
Exempt from TDAC:
- Thai nationals
- Thai permanent residents
- Diplomatic passport holders (some exceptions — verify before travel)
What You'll Need Before You Start
Have these ready before opening the TDAC website:
How to Complete the TDAC — Step by Step
1Go to the official website
Official address: https://tdac.immigration.go.th
The site supports multiple languages — look for the language selector in the top right corner. Use this URL only. Searching "TDAC" or "Thailand arrival card" online will surface lookalike scam sites. Any site that charges a fee is fraudulent.
2Register or proceed as a guest
Enter your email address. A verification code will be sent. Once verified, you'll be taken to the application form. Creating an account saves your details for future trips.
3Enter your personal details
All information must match your passport exactly, in English.
- Last name, first name (as shown in passport)
- Date of birth / gender / nationality
- Passport number / issuing country / expiry date
4Enter your travel details
- Flight number (e.g. TG631) / departure city / arrival date
- Purpose of visit (tourism, business, transit, etc.)
- Intended length of stay in Thailand
- Name and address of accommodation in Thailand
5Complete the health declaration (new section)
This section did not exist on the old TM6. It asks about your current health status and recent travel history. If you have no symptoms, this takes under a minute to complete.
6Submit and save your QR code
After submission, a QR code is generated. This is your proof of registration. Show it at immigration on arrival.
⚠️ Screenshot the QR code and save it offline. Airport WiFi can be unreliable, and you don't want to be searching your inbox at the immigration counter.
When Do You Need to Complete It?
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Earliest you can submit | 72 hours (3 days) before your arrival date |
| Deadline | Before you board — completing at check-in is recommended at the latest |
| Recommended timing | 1–2 days before departure |
| Can you edit after submitting? | No — if there's an error, complete a new form and use the new QR code |
Some airlines are now checking TDAC completion at the check-in counter, not just at Thai immigration. Complete yours the day before departure to avoid any last-minute problems at the airport.
What You Need to Know Before You Go
Scam Alert — The Most Important Warning in This Guide
On the same day the TDAC launched (May 1, 2025), Thailand's Immigration Police issued a public warning about fake TDAC websites that look official but charge a fee. The TDAC is completely FREE. If any website asks you to pay, close it immediately.
Official URL only: https://tdac.immigration.go.th
Q. Do I need to complete a new TDAC every time I enter Thailand?
A. Yes. Each TDAC is valid for one entry only. You'll need to submit a new one for every trip.
Q. Does TDAC apply to land border crossings too?
A. Yes. All foreign nationals entering Thailand by air, land, or sea are required to complete it.
Q. What if I don't have a smartphone?
A. You can print the QR code and present it as a paper document. Complete the form online, then print the confirmation email.
Q. Do children need their own TDAC?
A. Yes, all foreign nationals with a passport require a TDAC. Parents or guardians can complete it on behalf of minors.
Q. I made a mistake — can I edit my submission?
A. No. Once submitted, the TDAC cannot be edited. If there is an error, you must complete the entire form again from scratch and use the new QR code. Double-check all passport and flight details carefully before submitting.
Q. I'm transiting through Bangkok — do I need a TDAC?
A. If you clear Thai immigration (i.e. you leave the secure area), yes. If you remain airside throughout your connection, you are likely exempt — but confirm with your airline before travel.
Q. Is TDAC the same as an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization)?
A. No. TDAC is an arrival registration system, not a travel authorization. It does not replace your visa or visa exemption — it is an additional step for entry processing.
Quick Summary — Your Pre-Travel Checklist
- Confirm your accommodation booking (you'll need the address)
- 1–2 days before departure: Go to https://tdac.immigration.go.th
- Complete all sections: personal details, flight info, accommodation, health declaration
- Submit and screenshot the QR code — save it offline too
- At Thai immigration: show the QR code on your screen (or printed)
That's it. Five minutes at home means a smoother arrival. Do it before you pack.
Also on BeyondBangkok
Yunomori Onsen Sathorn — Bangkok's Best Urban Wellness Experience
Once you've landed and cleared immigration, this is the perfect way to decompress.
Read the Yunomori Review →
댓글
댓글 쓰기