Thailand Makes Digital Arrival Card Mandatory
From May 2025, Thailand requires all foreign travelers to fill out the Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) online before entry. Learn how to apply easily.
Thailand Introduces Mandatory Digital Arrival Card for All Travelers from May 2025
Starting May 2025, Thailand is set to launch a new travel requirement for all foreign visitors — the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC). According to the latest announcement from the Thai Immigration Bureau, completing this digital form will be mandatory for all non-Thai travelers entering the country by air, land, or sea.
This change aims to make entry procedures faster, safer, and more efficient, especially for the millions of tourists visiting Thailand every year.
What Is the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC)?
The Thailand Digital Arrival Card, also known as TDAC, is an online form that travelers must fill out and submit at least three days before entering Thailand. The form is available through the official immigration website — www.tdac.immigration.go.th.
Once submitted, travelers will receive a confirmation that needs to be shown to immigration officers upon arrival. Without this form, entry into Thailand may be delayed or denied.
Who Needs to Fill Out the TDAC?
All foreign citizens visiting Thailand — regardless of whether they enter by plane, car, or boat — must complete the Digital Arrival Card. Thai nationals are exempt from this requirement.
Why Is Thailand Making This Change?
The Thai government says the TDAC is part of its ongoing effort to modernize immigration services and enhance security. By collecting visitor information in advance, immigration officers can process travelers more quickly and reduce waiting times at airports and borders.
This digital process also helps identify potential issues — such as incomplete documents or overstayed visas — before travelers even arrive.
How to Complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card
The process is simple and fast, taking only a few minutes to complete. Here’s how:
- Visit www.tdac.immigration.go.th
- Fill in your personal details, passport information, and travel history.
- Submit your flight or entry details at least 72 hours before arrival.
- Save or print the confirmation to present at the immigration checkpoint.
Travelers are advised to complete the form early to avoid delays or flight cancellations.
Airlines and Travel Agencies Notified
The Thai Immigration Authority has already notified airlines and travel agencies, including those operating from Dhaka and other major cities, to inform their passengers about this requirement. Travelers from countries like Bangladesh, India, Malaysia, and the UAE — who frequently visit Thailand for tourism and medical purposes — are urged to plan accordingly.
Benefits of the Digital Arrival Card
The TDAC system offers several advantages:
- Faster immigration clearance at airports and border points.
- Reduced paperwork and shorter queues.
- Enhanced travel security through pre-screening.
- Eco-friendly paperless system aligned with Thailand’s smart travel goals.
Important Travel Tip
Travelers who fail to submit the Thailand Digital Arrival Card before arrival may face entry delays or flight cancellation issues. Always ensure your form is submitted on time to avoid inconvenience at the airport.
Final Thoughts
Thailand’s move to a digital arrival system marks a major step toward smart border management and seamless travel. For tourists, business visitors, and medical travelers alike, understanding and complying with this new rule will ensure a smooth and stress-free entry experience.
So, before packing your bags for Thailand in 2025, don’t forget one important thing — your Thailand Digital Arrival Card.
