Answereda year ago

What is the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) and how does it work for travelers?

Thailand Digital Arrival Card TDAC Visa regulations Immigration procedures Tourism in Thailand Traveler registration

THIM and TDAC notice

Need a clearer THIM and TDAC explanation? Read the THIM guide on thim.in.th.

James ********

asked Apr 28, 2025

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The Ministry of Tourism and Sports announced that the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) system — an online platform for pre-arrival registration — will officially launch on 1 May 2025. Foreign nationals entering Thailand must complete their registration during the three days leading up to their arrival at [members only]. 

“The system is fully ready, and backup measures are in place to ensure smooth operations. During the initial phase, travelers who encounter any issues can temporarily use a paper immigration form. TDAC is designed to streamline immigration procedures, enhance data accuracy, strengthen security, and make the arrival experience more convenient for international visitors,” said Ms. Natreeya Taweewong, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism and Sports.

Answer summary

The Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) system will launch on May 1, 2025, for foreign nationals entering Thailand, requiring them to register online up to three days before arrival. The system aims to make immigration more efficient and secure, although travelers can still use paper forms temporarily if needed. Questions regarding the use of TDAC for land crossings and MRZ identification on the website were also raised by users.

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Paul *******

So they're still allowing the use of paper forms? That's good. Hope they will allow them indefinitely. For land borders, I presume paper forms will remain the default option but they'll probably ask you if you've filled out the form already in advance.

Thai immigration uses helpers from the neighboring country, especially at the Cambodian and Burmese borders, so you'll be dealing with Cambodian/Burmese nationals wearing immigration shirts. They speak far better English than the Thais, one of the reason they're employed not to mention they are also used to help their nationals who may not speak Thai or English [or not well].

a year ago

Shannon ******

Does this need to be done also if you go by land?

a year ago

Paul *******

@Shannon *****

Yes but if arriving by land there probably won't be any machines available. Some land borders have only temporary facilities so you'd need to fill out the form on your device at the latest when you arrive before passing through the border or preferably the morning you depart your hotel in Laos, Cambodia, Malaysia or wherever.

a year ago

James ********

@Shannon *****

Yes

a year ago

Marks *********

What is the MRZ they speak of on the website, please?

a year ago

James ********

@Marks ********

a year ago

Matthew ***********

Hi, so if I'm coming may 20 can I register may 10 because if you're organised and making sure it's all done or it has to be 3 days before. Cheers Matt.

a year ago

Paul *******

@Matthew **********

Don't think too much farang. It's done within 3 days before arrival or on arrival. You can't do it 1 year in advance and I have to laugh at those farang who plan their trips that far in advance.

a year ago

Anonymous ******************

@Matthew **********

yours can be done from 17th

a year ago

James ********

Anonymous participant 432 Correct ✅

a year ago