Thailand Digital Arrival Card: Complete Guide for 2026
Thailand has modernized its immigration process with the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC), replacing the paper-based arrival card that travelers have filled out for decades. The new system streamlines entry and reduces processing times at immigration checkpoints. Here's everything you need to know to complete yours smoothly.
What Is the Thailand Digital Arrival Card?
The TDAC is an electronic pre-arrival form that all foreign nationals must complete before entering Thailand. It replaces the old paper TM.6 card and collects the same essential information — personal details, travel itinerary, accommodation address, and health declarations — in a digital format.
The system was introduced to speed up immigration processing, reduce paper waste, and improve data accuracy. It's part of Thailand's broader digital transformation of its immigration and tourism infrastructure.
Who Needs to Complete the TDAC?
All foreign nationals entering Thailand by air, land, or sea must complete the TDAC. This includes:
- Tourists on visa-exempt entries
- Travelers with Tourist Visas (TR)
- Transit passengers
- Visa-on-arrival applicants
Thai nationals are exempt from this requirement.
When Should You Submit the TDAC?
You can submit your TDAC up to 3 days before your arrival date. It's recommended to complete it as soon as you have your flight confirmation and hotel details. You must submit it before arriving at the immigration checkpoint — there's no option to complete it on arrival.
Important: The TDAC is specific to each entry. If you leave Thailand and return, you must submit a new TDAC for each re-entry.How to Complete the TDAC
Step 1: Access the Official Portal
Visit the official Thailand Digital Arrival Card website. The portal is available in multiple languages including English, Chinese, Japanese, and Korean.
Step 2: Enter Personal Information
You'll need to provide:
- Full name (as in passport)
- Passport number and nationality
- Date of birth
- Gender
- Occupation
Step 3: Provide Travel Details
- Flight number or vessel name
- Date and port of arrival
- Purpose of visit (tourism, business, transit)
- Duration of stay
Step 4: Enter Accommodation Information
- Name and address of your hotel or accommodation in Thailand
- Province and district
Step 5: Health Declaration
Answer the health screening questions honestly. These typically cover recent symptoms, travel to affected areas, and vaccination status.
Step 6: Review and Submit
Double-check all information before submitting. Errors can cause delays at immigration. Once submitted, you'll receive a confirmation with a QR code.
What Happens at Immigration?
Present your passport and the TDAC QR code at the immigration checkpoint. Officers may ask additional questions about your trip, but the process is generally faster than the old paper system since your data is already in the system.
Save your QR code — either as a screenshot or printed copy. While immigration can look up your submission by passport number, having the QR code speeds things up significantly.Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Visa-Exempt vs. Visa-on-Arrival vs. TDAC
Don't confuse the TDAC with visa requirements. The TDAC is an arrival form, not a visa. Depending on your nationality, you may also need:
- Visa-exempt entry — Citizens of 90+ countries can enter Thailand without a visa for 30-90 days (depending on nationality and entry method)
- Visa on Arrival — Available for citizens of select countries (15-day stay)
- Tourist Visa (TR) — Required for nationalities not eligible for visa-exempt or visa-on-arrival entry
The TDAC is required regardless of your visa status.
Tips for a Smooth Entry
- Complete the TDAC the day before arrival when all your details are confirmed
- Keep a digital and printed copy of your QR code
- Have your return/onward flight ticket accessible
- Know your accommodation address in Thailand
- Arrive at the airport with sufficient time — immigration queues can still be long during peak hours
The Thailand Digital Arrival Card is a straightforward process that takes just a few minutes. Complete it in advance, save your QR code, and you'll breeze through immigration to start enjoying the Land of Smiles.
