Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) replaces TM6 – mandatory from May 1

From May 1, 2025, all foreign travelers to Thailand must complete the new Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) before entry. The digital card replaces the old one The TM6 form which were previously distributed on the flight.

Thailand has officially launched TDAC – Thailand Digital Arrival Card – as a new entry form for tourists and business travelers. This digital system replaces the previous paper form TM6 that has been the standard for decades.

The purpose of TDAC is said to be to facilitate border control and save time for both travelers and immigration authorities. But behind the official communication there is a clearer goal: to increase control over visa-free travelers.

“They want to sell us TDAC by emphasizing that it simplifies the processing time at immigration… But, what it is primarily about is getting a better handle on visa-free travelers,” writes Swedish journalist Kim Wadström in a Facebook post highlighted.

What is TDAC and what do you need to do?

TDAC is completed online via tdac.immigration.go.th and requires the following information:

• Arrival date and flight number
• Departure date and flight number
• Passport number and visa number (if you have a visa)
• Occupation and contact details
• Residential address in Thailand
• Email and mobile number

After submitting the form, you will receive a confirmation email. TDAC is free of charge, but mandatory for all foreigners, including those entering with a visa or visa-free. Thai citizens are not covered.

TM6 is history – this is something new

Many media outlets, including us at Thailand Info, has previously referred to TDAC as a “digital TM6 form,” but this is a misconception. TDAC is not a digital version of TM6 – it is a completely new system that is integrated with the Immigration Police, the e-Visa system, and other agencies.

The system is part of Thailand's digital transformation, but also a response to domestic criticism that travelers from 93 countries can stay in the country for up to 60 days without a visa - and without the authorities' ability to track them effectively.

Problems and criticism

Although TDAC is intended to simplify the process, some users have reported problems in the beginning. Among other things, there is no option to indicate that you live in Thailand - everyone is treated as a tourist. However, several improvements are expected to be introduced on an ongoing basis.

Thailand Info testing TDAC

Thailand Info has started testing the new TDAC system, which consists of three simple steps:

1. Personal information,
2. Travel and accommodation information,
3. Health declaration.

We'll be back soon with our own insights, tips and explanations - and how to complete each step smoothly.

Text: The editorial staff

Image license: Thailand Info