What This Covers
The Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) is a mandatory digital immigration requirement introduced in January 2023. It replaced the TM.6 paper form that previously had to be filled out by hand on arrival at the airport or border.
TDAC streamlines the arrival process by collecting passenger information electronically before you reach immigration. This guide covers what TDAC is, who must submit it, how to file, fees, processing times, integration with visa types, and troubleshooting common errors.
Who It Applies To
TDAC is mandatory for all foreign nationals entering Thailand by any port of entry: international airports, land borders, or sea ports.
This applies whether you hold:
- A visa (tourist, Non-O, Non-B, ED, etc.)
- Visa-exempt entry
- Visa on arrival (VOA)
The only exceptions are Thai citizens and certain diplomatic passport holders. If you are a foreign national, you must complete TDAC.
How to File TDAC
Step 1: Access the System
Go to tdac.mfa.go.th in your web browser or download the TDAC mobile app. The system is available 24 hours, 7 days a week.
Step 2: Create an Account (First Time Only)
If you are filing TDAC for the first time, create an account using your email address and password. The account persists for future trips, so note your credentials.
Step 3: Complete Your Information
Fill in your personal details:
- Full name (as it appears in your passport)
- Passport number and issue/expiry dates
- Date of birth
- Nationality
- Email address and phone number
Step 4: Travel Details
Provide your arrival information:
- Expected arrival date and time
- Port of entry (Suvarnabhumi, Don Muang, Chiang Mai, Phuket, etc.)
- Flight number or transport method
- Departure country
Step 5: Accommodation Details
Enter your first night's accommodation in Thailand:
- Hotel name or residential address
- Province and postal code
Step 6: Review and Submit
Check all details for accuracy. Errors in your name or passport number will cause problems at immigration. Submit your form.
Step 7: Save Your Confirmation
You will receive a reference number. Screenshot or print this number. You do not need to print TDAC itself—the system verifies your submission electronically at immigration. However, keeping the reference number is useful if immigration asks.
Timing: When to File
File TDAC as early as possible, ideally 1–2 weeks before arrival. The latest you can file is 3 days before your scheduled arrival date.
Visa-exempt travellers sometimes file as late as possible to allow itinerary flexibility. Business visa holders and students should file well in advance.
The system will not accept submissions more than 3 days after your arrival date has passed. If you miss the deadline, you may face delays or rejection at immigration.
Fees
TDAC is always free. There is no charge to file, no processing fee, and no service fee. Do not use services claiming to file TDAC on your behalf for a fee—this is unnecessary and a waste of money.
Common Questions and Errors
What if I Make a Mistake?
You can edit your TDAC submission before your arrival date. Log in, locate your record, and update the information. Once you have passed immigration, you cannot modify it.
What If My Flight is Delayed?
If your flight is delayed and you now arrive after the TDAC submission deadline, update your arrival date immediately in the system. Immigration checks the system on a rolling basis, so inform the officer at immigration of the delay.
Can I File TDAC for Multiple Family Members?
Yes. Each family member must file their own TDAC using their own email address and passport information. There is no group or family submission option.
What if the Website is Slow or Crashes?
The system sometimes experiences server overload during peak times (early mornings, weekends). Try again later. Avoid filing close to your arrival date.
Do I Need to Print TDAC?
No. Keep your reference number for your records, but immigration checks your submission electronically. You do not need to print anything.
Integration with Visa Types
TDAC is required regardless of your visa type. However, how you file may depend on your planned stay:
Tourist and Short-Stay Visas
File TDAC before arrival. At immigration, present your passport, ticket, and proof of onward travel. TDAC appears in the system.
ED Visa (Student)
File TDAC with your school's letter of acceptance information ready. At immigration, present your ED visa, letter of acceptance, and passport. TDAC streamlines the process.
Non-O and Non-B Long-Stay Visas
File TDAC in advance. Your visa approval already grants you entry—TDAC is a supplementary requirement.
Visa on Arrival (VOA)
If using VOA, file TDAC first. At immigration, submit your VOA application along with your passport. TDAC accelerates the process.
Chiang Mai Specific Notes
Chiang Mai International Airport processes TDAC submissions alongside tourist and long-stay visa arrivals. Officers are experienced and move efficiently. Filing TDAC in advance ensures you move through the queue smoothly.
If arriving via land border (Chiang Khong or Mae Sai), file TDAC beforehand. Border officers check TDAC electronically, and submitting in advance prevents delays.
Related Visa Categories
- Visa-Exempt Entry – Simplest arrival method; TDAC required but quick processing.
- Visa on Arrival – Applied at border; TDAC plus VOA application fees apply.
- ED Visa – Long-term study. TDAC required; school assists with documentation.
- Non-O Long-Stay Visa – For extended residence. TDAC required for each entry.
For repeated or longer stays, an ED visa or Non-O provides clearer pathways and reduced scrutiny at immigration. First-time arrivals benefit from planning ahead with TDAC.