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The Kingdom of Thailand has a rich cultural heritage and diverse natural landscapes, attracting millions of tourists. According to the recent Thailand Tourism Report*, Thailand is the 8th most visited country worldwide.
Recently, the country has upgraded its immigration system and introduced new entry regulations to prevent the misuse of the Thailand visa.
This article will provide detailed information on the new entry norms and travel requirements to enter the Kingdom of Thailand.
Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC): Mandatory for Entering Thailand
Thailand immigration authorities have recently introduced a mandatory Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) for all tourists entering the country by land, air, or sea. The Thailand immigration authorities have announced that starting 1st May 2025, all foreign travellers entering Thailand by air, land, or sea must complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) electronically at least three days before arrival.
However, exceptions are granted solely to the following travellers:
- Those who transit or transfer through Thailand without going through immigration control, and
- Those who enter the Kingdom of Thailand with a Border Pass.
Otherwise, all foreign passport holders, tourists, business travellers, and long-term residents must complete the TDAC.
What is a TDAC?
The Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) is a mandatory online form that replaces the paper arrival card to enter the Kingdom of Thailand. The TDAC online immigration form will enhance security, streamline immigration procedures, and aid public health initiatives, ultimately providing a more efficient and convenient entry for international travellers.
Has Thailand Changed Entry Rules Because of Civil Unrest?
No, Thailand’s immigration authorities’ decision to change entry rules is not directly related to the recent incidents of civil unrest in the provinces of Pattani, Narathiwat, Yala, and Songkhla. Thailand's immigration authorities have changed the entry norms for foreign travellers to streamline the immigration process and avoid misusing/ Thai visas for illegal overstays. Before travelling, verifying the most recent guidelines from official sources such as the Thai Embassy or the Tourism Authority of Thailand is always advisable.
What are the Rules for Submitting the TDAC?
Below are the newly implemented regulations to submit TDAC:
- Tourist TDAC information must be submitted three days before arrival in Thailand.
- Foreign nationals staying in Thailand for over 90 days must notify the nearest Immigration Officer in writing about their place of residence as soon as possible after the initial 90-day period, and repeat this notification every 90 days.
- Foreign visitors are now prohibited from working without a valid work permit in Thailand.
Procedure for Online Submission of the TDAC
The complete procedure to submit the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) involves eight steps that are explained below:
- Visit the TDAC portal.
- On the home page of the TDAC portal, click the "Arrival Card" button.
- Input your details, including passport information. To retrieve data automatically, scan or upload an MRZ code image. Then click “Continue”.
- Provide your travel and accommodation details. Click “Continue”.
- Enter your health information as required by the Ministry of Public Health. Additional health details may be requested based on recent travel history, flight, or nationality. Click ‘Preview’.
- Carefully review your details and click "Edit" to correct any inaccuracies.
- Enter your email address to receive the Thailand Digital Arrival Card.
- Accept the Terms and Conditions by checking the box, then click "Submit".
- Download your Thailand Digital Arrival Card from your email.
Note(s):
- You must keep a printed copy of the TDAC while staying in Thailand.
- You must update the TDAC every 90 days during your stay.
Procedure to Update the TDAC
To update your submission, visit the TDAC portal.
- Click the Update Arrival Card button on the home page of the TDAC portal.
- On the next window, enter the required details for the search, including your TDAC number, passport number, date of birth, and Nationality/Citizenship.
- Press the ‘Search’ button.
- Confirm the accuracy of the information and make edits, if necessary.
- Review all provided details carefully before submitting the form.
- Use the ‘Previous’ option to modify any information, or select ‘Cancel’ to exit without saving changes.
- Enter your email address once again to receive the updated Thailand Digital Arrival Card.
- Agree to the Terms and Conditions by checking the box, then click ‘Submit’.
- Finally, you will be able to download the updated TDAC by clicking the ‘download TDAC’ button. You can also download or print a copy from the email provided during your stay in Thailand.
Has Thailand issued any Guidelines for Travel Insurance?
Thailand immigration authorities don’t require mandatory travel insurance, but it is highly recommended that you have trip coverage before flying to Thailand. You must buy a comprehensive policy that covers potential medical and non-medical risks during your trip.
Look out for the 8 essential aspects of Thailand travel insurance
Safeguard your Thailand Trip with a Comprehensive Travel Insurance
Thailand offers unlimited thrills and enjoyment. However, travelling to a distant place involves certain risks. An unforeseen circumstance, such as a natural disaster, bad weather, or a sickness, might result in trip interruption, causing you unnecessary inconvenience.
Hence, it is ideal to have comprehensive Thailand travel insurance that covers all medical and non-medical emergencies during your trip, including trip interruptions and delays. Always carefully review the policy documents and verify Thailand's travel insurance requirements.
Disclaimer: All plan features, benefits, coverage and claims underwriting are subject to policy terms and conditions. Kindly refer to the brochure, sales prospectus and policy documents carefully.
