Updated September 2025: Originally published before TDAC took effect, this article now includes my own experience using the system and the latest details from Thai Immigration.
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.
When I flew through Bangkok in May 2025 on a connecting flight, I had to complete the TDAC because I needed to clear immigration, retrieve and recheck my luggage. Even as a transit passenger, the form was required. I simply ticked the little checkbox at the bottom marked ‘I am a transit passenger’. You’ll see this option in the screenshots I’ve included below.
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.
This is where I got caught out as a transit passenger. Because I had to collect my bags and check in again, I wasn’t exempt, so I had to complete the TDAC like any other traveler.
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
Here’s what the process looks like based on my own experience:
- Go to the official website: TDAC Immigration and Open the TDAC application page. Click on Arrival Card (the ‘update arrival card’ is for any changes you might have after you have submitted your application)
This is the official TDAC website where you start your application. Always make sure you are on the government site. It should look exactly like this.👇
- Choose your language and start the application. (You can switch between Thai and English easily.)
- Enter your personal and travel information: Add your passport number, name, nationality, flight details, and accommodation.
- Transit passengers – don’t miss this step
At the bottom of the form, there’s a checkbox for transit passengers. When I was connecting through Bangkok in May 2025, I had to tick this box because I needed to retrieve and recheck my luggage. Even though I was technically in transit, this meant I wasn’t exempt.
- Complete the health declaration: Answer the simple health declaration honestly before proceeding.
- Review and confirm your details
Double-check everything before submitting. Errors could delay you at immigration.
- Submit the form and get your QR code
Once approved, you’ll receive an email with a QR code (as seen below as well as example confirmation email with QR code – personal info redacted). I saved mine on my phone and also printed a copy. Immigration officers will scan it when you arrive.
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.
- From my own trip, I recommend filling in the TDAC as soon as your 3-day window opens. It only took around 10 minutes, but doing it early meant I avoided last minute stress.
- 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 arrival form that replaces the old TM6 paper card. You complete it before you travel, and it collects your passport, flight, and accommodation details. When I connected through Bangkok in May 2025, I had to complete the TDAC myself so I can confirm there is a place on the form to check off “transit passenger” if you are simply connecting flights and need to retrieve and re check in your luggage. In this instance you do not need to enter accommodation details.
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.
Tip from my own trip: I filled it in as soon as the 3-day window opened, just to avoid any last-minute stress.
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!
✍️ About The Author
From building a thriving company to mastering the frequent flyer game, Cranky Boss has learned that in both business and travel, the journey teaches more than the destination. A Melbourne Business Awards finalist with a knack for building strong teams and keeping things real, Cranky Boss shares the wins, the mishaps, and the occasional “OMG” moments along the way.
Today, Cranky Boss brings real stories, sharp insights, and a grounded perspective from the boardroom to the boarding gate.
Read more about Cranky Boss →
✍️ Quick Facts
Miles flown: Closing in on one million | Hidden talent: Turning frequent flyer points into first class tickets | Coffee strength: Dangerously high | Office pet peeve: Speakerphone calls | Business mantra: Culture first, profit follows | Superpower: Understanding people before they speak.
