Starting May 1, 2025, Thailand will require all foreign visitors entering by air, land, or sea to complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) online before arrival, replacing the old paper-based TM6 arrival card. This mandatory digital form collects essential traveller information – including personal details, passport data, travel itinerary, accommodation address, and a health declaration-and links it to Thailand’s biometric database to enhance border security and streamline immigration processing.
Travelers must submit the TDAC within three days prior to their scheduled arrival, though assistance will be available at border points for those unable to apply in advance. After submission, travelers receive a QR code to present at immigration, facilitating faster clearance and reducing congestion at entry points. The TDAC is free of charge and applies to all non-Thai nationals regardless of visa type or length of stay. Each traveller, including family members, must complete their own form, but joint applications are possible to ease the process.
The introduction of the TDAC aims to strengthen Thailand’s fight against human trafficking, cybercrime, and other illegal activities by enabling pre-arrival screening and improved data integration. The health declaration component also supports ongoing public health monitoring efforts. This move aligns Thailand with other countries adopting digital arrival systems to modernize travel management and improve visitor experience.
Tourism is a vital part of Thailand’s economy, contributing around 13% to GDP and employing one in five workers. By simplifying entry procedures and enhancing security, the TDAC is expected to make travel to Thailand smoother and more efficient, encouraging more tourists to visit the country’s famed beaches, temples, and vibrant cities.
Visitors planning to travel to Thailand from May 1 onward should complete the TDAC online via the official Thai Immigration Bureau website at least 72 hours before arrival to avoid delays. Saving or printing the QR code confirmation is recommended for seamless processing at airports and border crossings.
In summary, Thailand’s new mandatory Digital Arrival Card marks a significant step in digitizing immigration, improving security, and ensuring a hassle-free experience for millions of tourists entering the Kingdom.