What is the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC)?
The TDAC is the digital version of the traditional arrival card (TM6 Disembarkation Card) that all foreign visitors must complete when entering Thailand. It serves as the official record of entry and contains essential information such as personal details, travel itinerary, and address of stay. The system was introduced to:- reduce paperwork,
- shorten waiting times at airports,
- capture data digitally for the Thai Immigration Bureau.
Benefits of the TDAC at a glance
- Time-saving: No forms to fill out at the airport—the digital submission speeds up the immigration check.
- Eco-friendly: Less paper waste thanks to the elimination of physical cards.
- Increased security: Digital data can be matched against international security databases more quickly.
- Easy tracking: Travelers receive a confirmation email that can be shown if needed.
Step-by-step guide to TDAC registration
1. Register via the official portal
Visit the official website: https://tdac.inmigration.go.th. Alternatively, you can scan the QR code at the airport („Off Code“).2. Enter personal and travel details
The following information is required:- Personal details: Full name, nationality, passport number, phone number, and email address.
- Travel information: Flight number, purpose of travel (e.g., tourism or business), and the address of stay (hotel or private address).
3. Submission and confirmation
After submitting the form, you will receive a confirmation email with a QR code or a reference number. Save it digitally or print it out.4. Present at entry
Present the confirmation along with your passport and other travel documents at the immigration counter.Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the TDAC
Does every traveler need to complete the TDAC? Yes, all foreign visitors (except Thai citizens and transit passengers).Can I complete the TDAC on mobile? Yes, the portal is mobile-optimized. Make sure you have a stable internet connection.What happens if I miss the 72-hour deadline? Submission is only possible within the three-day window. If you miss it, you must fill out the physical card at the airport.Are there any fees for the TDAC? No, registration is free of charge.Useful links
- Official TDAC portal: https://tdac.inmigration.go.th
- Thailand Immigration Bureau: https://www.immigration.go.th
- Travel advisories from the Federal Foreign Office: Federal Foreign Office – Thailand
Sources index
- Thailand Immigration Bureau – Digital Arrival Card Guidelines. Available at: https://tdac.inmigration.go.th
- Tourism Authority of Thailand – Press release on the introduction of the TDAC. Available at: https://www.tatnews.org
- Federal Foreign Office – Travel advisories for Thailand. Available at: https://www.auswaertiges-amt.de
With the Thailand Digital Arrival Card, the country is setting a milestone for modern travel experiences. Plan your registration in good time and enjoy a smooth start to your trip to Thailand!
Practical tips for a smooth TDAC registration
Have your documents ready in advance:
Avoid time pressure by having all the required information before registration ready. This includes:Passport details (number, issue and expiry date),
Flight details (exact flight number and arrival time),
Accommodation address (including city and postal code).
Tip: Save this information in a notes app so you can copy it quickly.
Build in extra time:
Complete the form at least 48 hours before departure—not just shortly before the 72-hour deadline. This gives you time to correct errors or contact support if there are technical issues.Screenshot or PDF of the confirmation:
Save the confirmation email offline to your smartphone or print it out. In Thailand, mobile internet at the airport can be unreliable.
Common mistakes and how to avoid them
Incorrect passport number: Triple-check the number—a typo can cause problems at entry.
Outdated flight details: Update the form if your flight number or arrival time changes.
Unclear address details: Use the exact hotel address from your booking confirmation, not colloquial descriptions (e.g., “near Khao San Road”).
Additional resources for a stress-free entry
Thailand Immigration App: Download the official Immigration Bureau app to receive updates (available for iOS and Android).
Translation tools: Use apps like Google Translate if your accommodation address is only available in Thai.
Support contact: For technical issues, contact TDAC support at support-tdac@immigration.go.th.
What to do if you lose the confirmation?
If you can’t find the confirmation email:
Check your spam folder.
Log back into the TDAC portal and download the document again.
In an emergency, show the registration screenshot at the airport.
Why TDAC is a game-changer for frequent flyers too
Business travelers benefit especially from TDAC:
Repeat use: Save your data in the portal so you can reuse it on future trips.
Shorter wait times: Avoid long lines and get to your meeting faster.
