Starting May 1: Foreign Visitors to Thailand Must Register for the Digital TM6 Card (TDAC) at Least 3 Days in Advance
Introduction
If you're planning to visit Thailand soon, there’s an important update you need to know about. Starting May 1, 2025, all foreign travelers entering Thailand will be required to pre-register for the digital TM6 immigration form, officially known as the TDAC (Thailand Digital Arrival Card), at least three days before arrival.
What is the TM6 or TDAC?
The TM6 form is a mandatory immigration form that foreign travelers have traditionally filled out on paper upon entering Thailand. To modernize and speed up the process, Thai authorities are transitioning to a fully digital system called TDAC, which allows travelers to submit their details online before arriving in the country.
This digital approach is designed to enhance security, improve efficiency, and reduce waiting times at immigration checkpoints.
Key Details at a Glance
- Effective Date: May 1, 2025
- Who Must Register: All foreign travelers entering Thailand
- What’s Required: Completion of the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) at least 3 days before arrival
- Where to Register: Official TDAC portal – link to be announced soon by Thai Immigration
Information Needed:
- Passport details
- Flight and arrival information
- Accommodation address in Thailand
- Purpose of visit and contact details
Step-by-Step: How to Register for TDAC
Once the official portal is launched, here’s what the TDAC registration process is expected to look like:
- Visit the official TDAC website
- Fill in your personal and travel details
- Double-check that all information matches your passport
- Submit the form at least 72 hours before arrival
- Receive a confirmation (QR code or PDF)
- Present it upon arrival in Thailand
Pro tip: Save the confirmation on your phone or print a physical copy as backup.
What Happens If You Don’t Register?
Failing to complete the TDAC form before arrival may result in:
- Longer wait times at immigration checkpoints
- Possible entry delays
- In some cases, denial of entry if requirements are not met
It’s essential to register ahead of time to ensure a smooth travel experience.
Are There Any Exemptions?
As of now, this requirement applies to foreign nationals only. Thai citizens are exempt. Additional details for groups such as:
- ASEAN nationals
- Diplomatic and official passport holders
- Frequent travelers with special status
...may be clarified closer to the launch. We’ll update this post as soon as more official information becomes available.
Official Sources
We recommend keeping an eye on:
- Thai Immigration Bureau website: https://www.immigration.go.th
- Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand
- Your local Thai Embassy or Consulate
These sites will provide the latest instructions and official links to the TDAC registration portal.
Travel Tips to Remember
- Set a reminder 1 week before your trip to complete your TDAC
- Ensure all entered details match your travel documents exactly
- Save a digital copy and/or print your TDAC confirmation
- Check your spam folder if you don’t receive a confirmation email
- Ask your travel agency or airline if they offer TDAC support
Language Support & Accessibility
To make the process smoother for global travelers, the TDAC system is expected to support multiple languages, including English, Chinese, Japanese, and others commonly used by tourists. Accessibility options may also be available for users with disabilities.
Final Thoughts
Thailand’s move toward digital entry systems like TDAC is part of its broader effort to modernize travel and enhance visitor experiences. While it may seem like just another step, it’s quick, simple, and can save you valuable time at the airport.
So don’t forget, if you're flying into Thailand from May 1, 2025, complete your TDAC at least 3 days before arrival. It’s your digital key to the Land of Smiles!
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