Thailand Travel Advisory: TDAC Guidelines for All Travelers

Thailand, with its vibrant culture, stunning beaches, and rich history, continues to be a top destination for travelers worldwide. However, as the country prepares for an expected influx of 40 million tourists in 2025, new entry requirements have been introduced to streamline immigration processes and enhance security. Starting May 1, 2025, all non-Thai nationals entering Thailand by air, land, or sea must complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC), a mandatory online form replacing the traditional paper-based TM6 arrival card. This article provides a comprehensive guide to the TDAC guidelines, travel advisories, and essential tips for a smooth journey to the Land of Smiles.

What is the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC)?

The TDAC is an online entry form designed to simplify immigration procedures, reduce processing times, and improve data collection for tourism and security purposes. It replaces the paper TM6 form, which was temporarily suspended during the COVID-19 pandemic but is now being reintroduced in a fully digital format. The TDAC collects essential personal, travel, and health information, ensuring a faster and more efficient arrival process for visitors.

Key Features of the TDAC

• Mandatory for All Foreign Travelers: Applies to all non-Thai nationals entering Thailand, regardless of visa status, except for those transiting without passing through immigration or using a Border Pass.

• Online Submission: Must be completed within 72 hours (3 days) before arrival via the official Thailand Immigration Bureau website: tdac.immigration.go.th.

• Free of Charge: There are no fees for submitting the TDAC, but beware of fraudulent websites claiming otherwise.

• Multilingual Support: Available in English, Chinese, Korean, Russian, and Japanese to ensure accessibility for global travelers.

• Integration with Other Systems: Connects with Thailand’s e-Visa system, health screening databases, and potential tourist fee collection processes.

Who Needs to Complete the TDAC?

All foreign travelers, including tourists, business travelers, and long-term residents, must submit the TDAC. The only exceptions are:

• Travelers transiting through Thailand without passing through immigration control.

• Individuals entering with a Border Pass for short trips from neighboring countries.

Thai passport holders are exempt from this requirement.

How to Complete the TDAC: Step-by-Step Guide

To ensure a hassle-free entry into Thailand, follow these steps to complete your TDAC registration:

1. Visit the Official Website: Go to tdac.immigration.go.th and select the “Arrival Card” option.

2. Enter Personal Information: Provide your full name, date of birth, nationality, passport number, and visa number (if applicable). All details must be entered in English.

3. Provide Travel Details: Input your expected date of arrival, mode of transport (air, land, or sea), flight or vehicle number (if known), purpose of visit, and the address of your accommodation in Thailand. Note that exact vehicle numbers for taxis or buses may not be required; these fields can often be left blank.

4. Complete the Health Declaration: List any countries visited in the past 14 days, as required by the Thai Ministry of Public Health. Travelers from Yellow Fever-affected countries (e.g., certain African and South American nations) must submit an International Health Certificate with their visa application and present it upon arrival.

5. Submit Contact Information: Enter a valid email address to receive your TDAC confirmation as a PDF file. Ensure you can access this email while traveling.

6. Review and Submit: Accept the terms of use, verify your details, and submit the form. The TDAC will be generated immediately.

7. Save and Present: Download and save the confirmation PDF on your phone or print it out. Present it to immigration officers upon arrival, along with your passport and other travel documents.

Tips for Completing the TDAC

• Submit Early: Complete the form as soon as your travel plans are confirmed, ideally within 72 hours before arrival, to avoid last-minute issues.

• Check Accommodation Details: You’ll need the full address of your hotel or residence, including district and sub-district. Google Maps can help if you’re unsure of these details.

• Save a Backup: Store the TDAC confirmation in the cloud or on multiple devices, as you may need it for departure or other immigration processes (e.g., 90-day reports for long-term stays).

• Correct Errors: If you make a mistake, you can update your details online before arrival or seek assistance from immigration officers at the border.

Travel Advisories for Thailand

In addition to the TDAC requirement, travelers should be aware of current safety and security advisories to ensure a safe trip. Here are the key points based on recent government travel advice:

General Safety

• Exercise a High Degree of Caution: Most countries, including Australia, Canada, and the UK, advise exercising a high degree of caution in Thailand due to sporadic political demonstrations and ongoing tensions, particularly in Bangkok. Stay informed by monitoring local media and following the advice of local authorities.

• Recent Earthquake Concerns: Following a 7.7 magnitude earthquake in the region (March 28, 2025), there are ongoing assessments of building safety across Thailand. Check with your accommodation provider for updates, avoid affected areas, and follow evacuation orders if issued.

• Scams and Petty Crime: Be cautious of common scams, such as exorbitant bar tabs, gem fraud, and rental vehicle scams where companies hold passports as collateral. Use only official transportation services at airports and agree on fares beforehand.

Regional Risks

• Southern Provinces: Avoid all travel to Yala, Pattani, Narathiwat, and parts of Songkhla (south of the A43 road and the Hat Yai-Padang Besar train line) due to ongoing insurgent activities, including bombings and shootings. Martial law is in place, and enhanced security measures may affect travelers.

• Border Areas: Exercise caution near the Thailand-Malaysia border due to regular attacks. Avoid non-essential travel to these regions and stay updated on local security conditions.

Health Precautions

• Insect-Borne Diseases: Diseases like dengue, Zika, and leptospirosis are present in Thailand. Use insect repellent, wear long clothing, and avoid swimming in unchlorinated freshwater.

• Rabies Risk: Avoid contact with stray animals, especially dogs, monkeys, and bats, as rabies is a concern. Seek immediate medical attention if bitten or scratched.

• Health Declaration: The TDAC includes a health declaration to monitor potential risks. Ensure you have any required health certificates, such as for Yellow Fever, if traveling from affected countries.

Visa and Entry Requirements

In addition to the TDAC, travelers must meet Thailand’s visa and entry requirements:

• Visa Exemption: Nationals from certain countries can enter Thailand for tourism or short-term business for up to 60 days without a visa. Check with the nearest Thai embassy to confirm eligibility.

• E-Visa: Those requiring a visa can apply through the official Thai E-Visa website. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date.

• Proof of Funds and Onward Travel: Immigration officers may request proof of sufficient funds and a return or onward ticket. Failure to provide these could result in denied entry.

• Overstay Penalties: Overstaying your visa incurs fines, potential arrest, detention, or a ban from re-entering Thailand. Always comply with visa conditions.

Practical Tips for Travelers

To make your trip to Thailand seamless and enjoyable, consider the following:

• Enroll in STEP: U.S. travelers should enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts and facilitate emergency assistance.

• Respect Local Customs: Avoid showing the soles of your feet or touching someone’s head, as these are considered disrespectful. Dress modestly at temples and remove shoes when required.

• Stay Connected: Carry a copy of your passport and TDAC confirmation, and share your itinerary with family or friends.

• Prepare for Digital Challenges: Some travelers, particularly older individuals, have expressed concerns about navigating the TDAC system. If you’re not tech-savvy, consider seeking help from a travel agent or a tech-savvy friend. Self-service kiosks at airports may be available for on-arrival completion, but advance submission is recommended to avoid delays.

• Monitor Tourism Trends: Thailand welcomed over 35.54 million visitors in 2024, and 2025 is expected to see even more. Book accommodations and flights early, especially during peak seasons (November to February).

Why the TDAC Matters

The introduction of the TDAC is part of Thailand’s broader effort to modernize its tourism and immigration systems. By moving to a digital platform, the country aims to:

• Reduce Wait Times: Streamline immigration processing at airports and border crossings.

• Enhance Security: Improve tracking of arrivals and integration with health and e-Visa systems.

• Promote Sustainability: Eliminate paper forms for an eco-friendly process.

• Prepare for Growth: Handle the projected 40 million tourists in 2025 efficiently.

However, the system has sparked some confusion, particularly for overland travelers or those unsure of exact arrival details. The Thai Immigration Bureau is addressing these concerns through awareness campaigns and multilingual guidelines. Travelers are encouraged to plan ahead and contact the nearest Thai embassy for clarification if needed.

Conclusion

Thailand remains a must-visit destination, offering everything from bustling Bangkok to serene islands like Phuket and Koh Samui. The new Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) is a step toward a more efficient and secure travel experience, but it requires preparation. By completing the TDAC online, staying informed about travel advisories, and respecting local customs, you can ensure a smooth and memorable trip.

For the latest updates, visit the official Thai Immigration Bureau website or contact your local Thai embassy. FastTreck Travels wishes you an incredible adventure in Thailand—safe travels and enjoy the Land of Smiles!