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Quick answer: Every foreigner entering Thailand must complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) within 72 hours before arrival at tdac.immigration.go.th. It replaced the paper TM6 for most travellers in 2025. Free, takes 10–15 minutes, save the QR code PDF.

What is TDAC?

TDAC (Thailand Digital Arrival Card) is the mandatory online arrival declaration for all nationalities entering Thailand by air, land, or sea. Immigration uses it to pre-screen arrivals and link your entry to your passport record. Missing TDAC can delay entry at Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, or U-Tapao — and blocks online 90-day reporting (TM47) until your latest entry is registered.

When to submit

Step-by-step (official portal only)

  1. Open tdac.immigration.go.th — avoid third-party “TDAC agent” sites charging fees.
  2. Personal info: Name exactly as passport, DOB (DD/MM/YYYY), nationality, passport number, expiry (6+ months validity recommended).
  3. MRZ scan: Upload passport photo page — auto-fills ~60% of fields from machine-readable zone.
  4. Travel: Flight number (e.g. TG406), arrival date, mode (air/land/sea), purpose (tourism/business/education/etc.), intended stay length.
  5. Accommodation: First-night address — hotel name + Soi for Pattaya (province Chonburi, amphoe Bang Lamung, tambon Nong Prue or Pattaya City).
  6. Health declaration: Symptom checklist for past 14 days — answer honestly.
  7. Submit: Enter email, accept terms, save PDF with QR code and reference number.

Pattaya-specific tips

Arriving U-Tapao (near Pattaya)? TDAC process identical — use your Pattaya hotel or condo address. Long-stay holders landing on DTV, Non-O, or LTR still need TDAC every entry — it does not replace visa stamps, TM30, or 90-day reporting.

After landing, ensure your landlord files TM30 within 24 hours. TDAC address and TM30 address should match your actual residence to avoid extension questions at Jomtien Immigration.

Common mistakes

TDAC and 90-day reporting

Online TM47 (90-day report) requires your latest entry to appear in the immigration system. If TDAC was not filed or email QR lost, online reporting may fail — file in person at Jomtien or wait until the system syncs. See 90-day reporting guide and online TM47 2026.

FAQ

Is TDAC the same as TM6?

TDAC replaced the paper arrival/departure card (TM6) for most entries. You no longer fill TM6 on the plane for most routes.

Do children need TDAC?

Yes — every passport holder including infants needs their own submission (parent can complete on their behalf).

Can I edit after submit?

Core fields (name, passport, nationality) are locked. Minor travel changes may require re-submission before arrival.

DTV / Non-O holders — still required?

Yes, every entry regardless of visa type.

TDAC vs visa paperwork

TDAC does not replace your visa stamp, extension application, or work permit. It is purely an arrival declaration. Tourist visa, visa exempt, DTV, Non-O, LTR — all require TDAC on every entry. Keep TDAC PDF with your passport travel wallet alongside re-entry permit and 90-day receipt copies.

Land and sea arrivals

Crossing from Cambodia, Laos, or Malaysia? TDAC still required — select land border mode and vehicle details. Ferry from Koh Samui to mainland counts as sea mode. Pattaya residents returning via Aranyaprathet or Mae Sot use the same portal; only flight number field changes to vehicle/plate where applicable.

Troubleshooting failed submission

Portal timeout: try Chrome incognito, disable ad blockers, or switch mobile data. Email not received: check spam, wait 30 minutes, re-submit if arrival still >24h away. QR unreadable at immigration: show PDF on phone at max brightness or print A4 at hotel business centre.

Questions before you fly? Contact us · WhatsApp +66 96 728 6999 · Independent advice from Jomtien, no commissions.