The TDAC (Thailand Digital Arrival Card) is a free online form that all foreign travelers must fill out before entering Thailand.
It replaces the old paper TM6 card. You must submit it within 72 hours before arrival and provide your passport, travel, and accommodation details.
This digital system makes entry into Thailand faster and easier. All travelers must complete it except transit passengers, and you should submit it only on the official Thai immigration website to avoid scams – especially if you are applying for a Thailand visa from the UAE or entering under visa-free rules.
The Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) is mandatory for almost all foreign travelers entering Thailand. It is not optional for selected groups.
Thailand introduced TDAC on May 1, 2025, replacing the old paper TM6 form, and it is now a standard part of the immigration process.
Here, we will share details about what TDAC is, what is mandatory for TDAC, and what is not. Let’s explore it further.
Who MUST Submit TDAC
- All Foreign Nationals: This is mandatory for everyone entering Thailand, regardless of how they arrive (air, land, sea).
- UAE Residents (Any Nationality): Even if you live in the UAE, if you’re going to Thailand, you need the TDAC.
- UAE Citizens Entering Thailand: UAE passport holders, even those eligible for visa-free entry, must complete the TDAC.
- Tourists, Business Travelers, Short-Term Visitors: All types of visitors must submit it.
- Visa-Free Travelers: Yes, if you get visa-free entry, you still need the TDAC.
- Visa-on-Arrival Travelers: Yes, this is required in addition to your visa.
TDAC is mandatory for everyone travelling to Thailand. But are there any exceptions?
If yes, who is exempt from it? Let’s delve deeper.
Who May Be Exempt From Thailand TDAC
- Transit Passengers: Those transferring in Thailand without clearing immigration.
- Border Pass Holders: Entering Thailand with a Border Pass.
- Diplomatic/Official Passports: Exemptions are case-specific.
- Certain Airline Crew: Always confirm with your airline for specific exemptions.
Is TDAC a Visa?
No. TDAC is not a visa.
Let’s clear this confusion right away.
TDAC does not replace a visa. It is only a travel declaration, not permission to enter a country.
Even if you complete TDAC, you must still meet all normal entry requirements.
You still need:
- A valid visa (if your nationality requires one)
- A passport with enough validity
- A return or onward ticket
- Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or stay details)
Reminder: Always check visa rules based on your passport before you travel. If you have any confusion or concerns, kindly contact the visa consultants in the UAE
Tip: Even optional details should be kept ready. Immigration officers may ask for them during verification.
Mandatory vs Optional TDAC Information
| Information Type | Required? | Notes |
| Passport Details | Mandatory | Must match your passport exactly. |
| Nationality | Mandatory | Based on the passport you are traveling with. |
| Flight Details | Mandatory | Includes flight number and airline. |
| Arrival Date | Mandatory | Date you plan to enter the country. |
| Accommodation Address | Mandatory | Hotel booking or host address. |
| Length of Stay | Mandatory | Number of days you plan to stay. |
| Contact Details | Mandatory | Active email ID and phone number. |
| Health Declaration | Mandatory | Mandatory for health and safety screening. |
| Return Flight Details | Optional | Asked in some cases to confirm exit plans. |
| Vaccination Info | Optional | Required only if health rules apply at the time of travel. |
| UAE Residency Info | Optional | Needed only if you are a UAE resident. |
When Should UAE Travellers Submit TDAC?
UAE travellers should submit the TDAC within 72 hours before arrival in Thailand. This is the recommended time frame, as it helps you avoid last-minute stress and possible travel delays.
When you submit your TDAC within 72 hours, your travel details remain fresh and accurate. The system also accepts applications more smoothly during this period.
Submitting the form too early is not advised, as the system allows TDAC submission only within a specific window, and early submissions may not be accepted.
Waiting until the last minute can cause problems. Technical issues may slow down the process, errors in your details may require corrections, and you may not receive confirmation on time. These delays can affect your travel plans.
It is important to note that if you do not complete the TDAC, airlines may deny boarding. In some cases, airport staff may ask for TDAC confirmation before issuing your boarding pass.
To ensure a smooth journey, complete your TDAC on time and keep a digital or printed copy ready for check-in and upon arrival in Thailand. UAE travellers can easily apply for the Thailand Digital Arrival Card through the TDAC website before travelling, which offers a simple and traveller-friendly application process.
What Happens If You Don’t Submit TDAC?
If you do not submit your TDAC before travelling, you may face problems at different stages of your journey.
Airlines often check TDAC before boarding. If you do not have a valid TDAC, the airline may stop you from boarding the flight.
If you arrive in Thailand without a TDAC, immigration officers may hold you for additional checks. This can delay your entry and cause unnecessary stress after a long flight.
Travellers without TDAC may also be sent for manual processing. This usually means long queues and extra waiting time at the airport.
In rare cases, immigration authorities may even refuse entry if the required travel formalities are not completed.
To avoid delays and travel issues, always complete your TDAC before you travel and keep the confirmation ready, either in digital or printed form.
Step-by-Step: How UAE Residents Can Complete TDAC
Follow these simple steps to complete your TDAC without confusion or delays.
- Step 1: Gather your documents
Keep your passport and flight details ready before you start. Make sure your passport is valid.
- Step 2: Fill out the online TDAC form
Enter your personal, travel, and accommodation details in the online TDAC form.
- Step 3: Double-check all details
Check spelling, passport number, and travel dates carefully. Small mistakes can cause problems later.
- Step 4: Submit and save confirmation
Submit the form and save the confirmation on your phone or email.
- Step 5: Carry a digital or printed copy
Keep a digital copy on your phone. A printed copy is also helpful.
- Step 6: Show it when asked
Present your TDAC confirmation at airline check-in or immigration, if they ask for it.
Completing TDAC on time helps you avoid delays and ensures a smooth travel experience.
Common Mistakes UAE Travellers Make
Many travel issues happen because of small but avoidable mistakes. Below are the most common errors UAE travellers make while completing TDAC.
- Thinking TDAC is optional
Some travellers believe TDAC is optional. In reality, TDAC is mandatory, and airlines may check it before boarding. - Confusing TDAC with a visa
TDAC is not a visa and does not replace visa requirements. You must still hold a valid visa if your passport requires one. - Entering UAE residency instead of nationality
Many UAE residents mistakenly enter “UAE” as their nationality. You must enter the nationality exactly as shown on your passport. - Entering the wrong hotel address
Providing an incorrect or incomplete accommodation address can create issues during immigration checks. - Mismatch between the flight ticket and TDAC
Flight number, airline name, and arrival date must match your ticket. Any mismatch may cause delays. - Submitting TDAC too early or too late
Submitting TDAC too early may lead to rejection, while submitting it too late can cause boarding problems.
Travel Smart: Thailand TDAC Made Simple
TDAC is not a visa, but authorities often make it mandatory for travellers. Ignoring it can lead to boarding issues or delays at immigration.
UAE travellers should take TDAC seriously. A small mistake or late submission can create unnecessary stress at the airport.
When you submit TDAC correctly and on time, you avoid delays, long queues, and last-minute confusion. Always double-check the latest travel and entry rules before you fly, as requirements can change.
Need help with Thailand travel rules or visa requirements from the UAE? Contact The Visa Guy, and we will guide you step by step.
FAQs
Is TDAC mandatory for UAE residents?
Yes. TDAC is mandatory for UAE residents travelling to Thailand. Airlines and immigration may ask for it before travel or on arrival.
Can I submit TDAC after reaching Thailand?
No. You must submit a TDAC before you travel. Authorities do not allow submission after you reach Thailand.
What happens if I forget to submit TDAC before my flight?
The airline may stop you from boarding. Even if you travel, immigration may delay your entry and send you for manual checks.
Does TDAC guarantee entry into Thailand?
No. TDAC does not guarantee entry. Immigration officers make the final decision based on your visa, documents, and travel purpose.
Is TDAC checked at Dubai or Abu Dhabi airport?
Yes. Airlines at Dubai and Abu Dhabi airports may check TDAC during check-in or before boarding.
Is TDAC required for visa-free travellers?
Yes. Even visa-free travellers must complete TDAC if it is required at the time of travel.
Is TDAC checked at UAE airports like Dubai or Abu Dhabi?
Yes. Airline staff at UAE airports often verify TDAC before allowing passengers to board the flight.
Do children travelling from the UAE need a separate TDAC?
Yes. Each traveller, including children and infants, must have a separate TDAC completed in their own name.
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Hadi Umer
Hadi Umer is the Senior Visa Consultant and Country Head of UAE Operations at The Visa Guy. Featured in Gulf News and other leading platforms, he is recognized for his expertise and trusted guidance in simplifying complex visa processes for professionals and families.
Hadi Umer
Hadi Umer is the Senior Visa Consultant and Country Head of UAE Operations at The Visa Guy. Featured in Gulf News and other leading platforms, he is recognized for his expertise and trusted guidance in simplifying complex visa processes for professionals and families.
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