Starting May 1, 2025, all travelers heading to Thailand must complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) online before their journey begins. This new mandatory process is part of Thailand’s efforts to streamline entry procedures, improve security, and offer a more seamless travel experience for international visitors.
Whether you are visiting Thailand for tourism, business, or transit, this is a crucial step you cannot afford to miss. Below, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know about the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC), how to complete it, and why it’s important for your travel planning.
What is the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC)?
The Thailand Digital Arrival Card, or TDAC, is a new digital entry requirement introduced by Thai authorities. It replaces the previously used paper-based arrival card system and aims to simplify immigration procedures for travelers. This move aligns with Thailand’s broader digital transformation in travel and border management.
Who Needs to Submit the TDAC?
All travelers to Thailand, regardless of nationality or reason for visit, are required to complete the TDAC online before arrival. This includes:
- Tourists
- Business travelers
- Family visitors
- Transit passengers
- Citizens of countries eligible for visa on arrival
Even if you have an existing visa or are traveling under a visa-exempt policy, the TDAC submission remains mandatory.
Key Requirement: Complete Before You Fly
To ensure smooth entry into Thailand, travelers must submit the TDAC online at least three days before their scheduled flight. Failing to do so may result in delays at the immigration desk or even denial of boarding at the departure airport.
Therefore, it is strongly advised that you complete this process well in advance and carry a digital or printed confirmation during your journey.
Why Has Thailand Introduced the TDAC?
The main reasons behind implementing the TDAC are:
- Faster immigration processing
By digitizing the arrival card, immigration officers can pre-screen travelers and reduce queues at the airport. - Improved border security
Advance data collection allows for better monitoring of incoming visitors and faster response to potential risks. - Enhanced traveler convenience
Submitting details online eliminates the need to fill out forms upon landing, saving time and hassle for travelers.
What Information Is Required for the TDAC?
When completing the TDAC online, you’ll need to provide the following information:
- Full name (as per passport)
- Passport number and expiry date
- Flight details (arrival date, flight number)
- Accommodation address in Thailand
- Contact information (email and phone number)
- Purpose of visit (tourism, business, etc.)
Ensure that the information entered matches your travel documents exactly to avoid discrepancies at immigration.
How to Complete the TDAC Online
Follow these simple steps to submit your Thailand Digital Arrival Card:
- Visit the official TDAC registration portal.
- Fill out the required fields with accurate travel and personal information.
- Upload any necessary documents (passport, visa if applicable).
- Review your details carefully before submitting.
- Download and save the confirmation page or email.
This process typically takes just a few minutes, provided you have all the information ready.
Benefits of Submitting the TDAC
Travelers who complete the TDAC in advance can expect:
- Quicker processing at Thai airports
- Reduced paperwork on arrival
- Shorter wait times at immigration counters
- Enhanced travel planning confidence
Moreover, having your arrival information pre-verified helps Thai authorities manage tourism flow better, ensuring a safer and more organized entry experience for everyone.
What Happens If You Don’t Submit the TDAC?
Not submitting the TDAC before arrival could lead to several complications:
- You may be denied boarding by your airline.
- You could face delays during immigration clearance in Thailand.
- You might be asked to complete the form manually at the airport, causing inconvenience and potential entry refusal.
Avoid last-minute issues by taking a few minutes to register online before your flight.
Akbar Travels Makes It Easy for You
At Akbar Travels, we understand that travel procedures can be overwhelming. That’s why we offer complete support to all our customers traveling to Thailand. When you book your flight and hotel with us, our travel advisors can guide you step-by-step through the TDAC registration process.
Here’s how we help:
- Personalized travel consultation
- Assistance with online forms and documentation
- Visa guidance if required
- Best deals on Thailand flight tickets and hotels
We make sure your journey starts smoothly, right from booking to arrival.
Final Travel Checklist for Thailand
Before you head to the airport, make sure you have:
- A valid passport with at least 6 months’ validity
- Confirmed flight and hotel bookings
- Thailand visa (if required for your nationality)
- Completed TDAC confirmation
- Printed or digital copies of your travel documents
The Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) is now an essential part of planning your trip to Thailand. By completing it online at least three days before departure, you can avoid delays and ensure a hassle-free arrival. With Akbar Travels by your side, everything from flight booking to document support is just a click away.
Book your Thailand holiday packages with Akbar Travels and let us take care of the details -so you can focus on the experience.
