Thailand is one of the most visited countries in the world, known for its stunning beaches, amazing food, and rich culture. Effective May 1st, 2025, Thailand has introduced a new online system called the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) to replace the old paper-based TM6 immigration form. This change is designed to ease congestion and make immigration smoother and faster.
If you are planning a trip to Thailand, it’s important to understand this new rule.
The key point? You now need to submit your arrival information online within 3 days before you arrive in Thailand.
Here’s what we will cover:
- What Is the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC)?
- TM6 form Thailand
- Suspension of the TM6 Form
- Who Needs to Submit the TDAC?
- When Should You Submit the TDAC?
- What Information Do You Need to Submit?
- Step-by-Step: How to Submit the TDAC
- Final Tips Before You Travel
- Summing Up and FAQ’s
What Is the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC)?
The TDAC is an online form that every traveller must complete before entering Thailand. It collects information such as your personal details, flight number, accommodation, and health status. This digital system replaces the paper TM6 form that was handed out on planes or at border checkpoints.
This is part of Thailand’s move towards a more digital and efficient immigration process. Submitting the TDAC online will help speed up your entry and reduce queues at immigration counters.
TM6 form Thailand
The TM6 immigration form was a mandatory paper-based arrival and departure card that all foreign travellers entering or leaving Thailand were required to complete. Typically distributed by airline staff during international flights, the form collected essential information such as personal details, passport information, flight numbers, and accommodation addresses. Upon arrival, travellers would submit the completed form to immigration officers, who would retain the departure portion for collection upon exit.
Suspension of the TM6 Form
Thailand suspended the requirement for air travellers to complete the TM6 form. This decision aimed to streamline the immigration process, reduce congestion at airports, and enhance the overall travel experience for visitors. Thailand is now replacing the old paper form with the new digital arrival card. This is known as the TDAC. It is short for Thailand Digital Arrival Card.
Who Needs to Submit the TDAC?
Effective May 1st, 2025, the TDAC must be completed by all foreign travellers entering Thailand by air, land, or sea.
The only exceptions are:
✅ Transit passengers who do not go through immigration
✅ Travellers with a valid border pass
✅ Thai citizens
For all other travellers, submitting the TDAC is now a mandatory step before arriving in Thailand.
When Should You Submit the TDAC?
You must submit the TDAC within 3 days before your arrival in Thailand. This includes the day you arrive. Submitting it too early is not allowed, and the system will not let you choose a date outside this 3-day window.
For example:
- If you are arriving in Thailand on 31st May, you can submit your TDAC any time between 29th and 31st May.
- You cannot submit it earlier than 29th May in this case.
This means you should mark your calendar and make sure to complete the TDAC at least one day before you fly, just in case of internet problems or other issues.
What Information Do You Need to Submit?
Before you start filling out the TDAC, make sure you have the following details ready:
- Your passport number and expiration date
- Your flight number and arrival date/time
- The address of your accommodation in Thailand (hotel, guesthouse, Airbnb, etc.)
- Your contact details (email and phone number)
- A simple health declaration
It takes only about 5–10 minutes to fill out the form if you have everything prepared.
Step-by-Step: How to Submit the TDAC
- Go to the official website: TDAC Immigration
- Choose your language and start the application.
- Enter your personal and travel information.
- Review everything to make sure it’s correct.
- Submit the form.
- You will receive a confirmation email with a QR code.
- Save the QR code on your phone or better still print it out to show at immigration together with your passport.
Final Tips Before You Travel
- Don’t wait until the last minute. Submit the TDAC three days before your flight.
- Double-check all the information you enter.
- Save or print the QR code you receive.
- Keep the QR code ready to show at immigration counters upon arrival
Summing Up
The new Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) is easy to complete and only takes a few minutes. It’s designed to make entering Thailand faster and more efficient. As long as you follow the 3-day rule and enter the correct details, the process will be smooth and stress-free.
The replacement of the TM6 immigration form with the digital system shows Thailand’s commitment to modernizing travel.
Frequently Asked Questions About Thailand’s Digital Arrival Card (TDAC)
What is the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC)?
The TDAC is Thailand’s new online system that replaces the old TM6 paper arrival form. It must be completed online before entering Thailand.
Is the TDAC the Same as the Thai ETA?
No, the TDAC and Thai ETA are two different things. The Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) is a required online form for all foreign travellers entering Thailand by air, land, or sea. It must be completed within 3 days before arrival and includes your passport, flight, and accommodation details.
The Thai ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) is a separate pre-entry system that was planned for travellers from visa-exempt countries. It was supposed to be required before entering Thailand, much like ETAs used in other countries.
Initially scheduled for December 2024, the full deployment of the ETA system has now been delayed. The ETA will serve as a pre-screening measure to enhance security and streamline entry procedures.
When does the TDAC come into effect?
The TDAC comes into effect from May 1st, 2025
How much does the TDAC Cost?
It does not cost anything to submit your arrival information.
When should I submit the TDAC before traveling to Thailand?
You must submit the TDAC within 3 days (72 hours) before your arrival in Thailand. This includes the day you land.
Is the TM6 form still required for Thailand in 2025?
No, the TM6 paper form has been replaced by the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) for air travelers from May 1st, 2025.
Where do I fill out the Thailand Digital Arrival Card?
You can complete the TDAC online at the official Thai Immigration website.
Can I change my details after submitting?
If you made a mistake or your travel details change, you can click on the “Update Thailand Arrival Card”.
Is the TDAC required at land and sea borders?
Yes, the TDAC is required for all air, land and sea travel.
You Might Also Be Interested In:
- What is the EES and how will it affect travelers to Europe?
- ETIAS Explained: Europe’s New Travel Authorisation
- UK ETA: What You Need to Know Before Visiting the UK
Thailand is considered to be one of the cheapest countries to visit if you are from Australia. If you’re getting ready for your trip and want to simplify your packing, don’t miss my ultimate travel packing list—packed with must-have items and smart tips you might not have thought of!
While you’re planning, it’s also worth exploring a few extras that can make your journey even better. Take a look at our guide to unique gifts for travelers, featuring thoughtful ideas perfect for anyone heading overseas.
Safe travels!
