Thailand Introduces Mandatory Digital Arrival Card for Foreign Travelers
Thailand Launches Mandatory Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) for Foreign Travelers Starting May 2025
Effective May 1, 2025, Thailand will officially launch the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC), a new requirement for all foreign nationals entering the country. This initiative replaces the paper-based TM6 arrival card, in an attempt to modernize the nation’s immigration procedures.
The TDAC is a digital form that streamlines the arrival process for non-Thai nationals entering Thailand via air, land, or sea. Its primary objectives are to enhance efficiency at immigration checkpoints and to improve border security.
Who Must Complete the TDAC
The TDAC is mandatory for all foreign nationals except transit passengers who do not pass through immigration control. Completion of the TDAC will be mandatory for all foreign passport holders, including tourists, business travellers, and long-term residents. This includes:
- Visa-exempt travelers,
- Those with pre-approved visas,
- Participants in the visa-on-arrival program and
- Holders of Permanent Residency Permits (PRPs).
How to Submit It
Travelers must submit the TDAC within 72 hours prior to their arrival. Travellers can submit the TDAC individually or as part of a group via the portal. Information can be updated at any time before travel. The process involves:
- Accessing the official TDAC portal
- Filling in personal details, travel itinerary, accommodation address in Thailand, and recent travel history.
- Submitting any required health declarations.
- Receiving a confirmation email with the completed TDAC in PDF format to present at immigration.
Long-term or permanent foreign residents in Thailand are advised to select “Thailand” under “Country of Residence,” which will be available once the system is activated.
The introduction of the TDAC has legal implications for travelers and businesses. Failure to comply with this requirement may result in delays or refusal of entry. Travellers who are unable to complete the TDAC before arrival and do not have internet access at the point of entry will be assisted at designated help points located at immigration checkpoints. This assistance is intended for exceptional circumstances only.
The TDAC is promoted as a step toward modernizing Thailand’s travel processes, but it remains uncertain whether it will genuinely simplify border procedures or create new complexities. As this system rolls out, travelers and legal professionals should stay updated and ensure they meet the new requirements.
How We Can Help
Navigating new immigration procedures like the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) can be complex—especially for long-term residents, visa holders, and corporate travelers. Our team provides personalized guidance to ensure full compliance with the latest regulations, helping you or your organization avoid delays or complications at entry points.
Whether you’re a traveler, HR professional, or business operator managing foreign staff, we offer support with TDAC requirements, visa strategy, and broader immigration compliance.
Contact us today to learn how we can assist with smooth and compliant entry into Thailand.
Andreas Seela
Andreas primarily focuses on corporate/commercial, tax law, and real estate law. He previously worked for an international law firm in Germany and has experience in the Asian legal sphere. He holds a Master’s degree in business law and economics (LLM.oec.) and is currently working on his Ph.D. thesis at Chulalongkorn University in international law.
