The entrance of a small guesthouse on a quiet lane

Your TDAC questions, answered briefly.

Each answer links to the Thai source behind it. Where sources disagree or say nothing, we tell you.

Guide 06 of 06Last checked against official sources: See sources

The basics

Is the Thailand Digital Arrival Card free?

Yes. Thailand's tourism ministry says registration is "completely free of charge", and a Thai consulate says the same. Tourism Ministry Consulate, Dubai The portal's own page title includes "No Fees Required". Portal

Is this website the official TDAC site?

No. We're an independent guide with no link to the Thai government. The official portal is tdac.immigration.go.th.

Is the TDAC a visa?

No, and it doesn't replace one. User guide Consulate, Dubai Check whether your passport needs a visa separately.

Is it mandatory?

Yes. The FAQ says it's required for all non-Thai nationals before entering. FAQ We didn't find an official statement of a specific penalty for arriving without one. The FAQ does offer kiosks on arrival.

When did it start?

It's been required since 1 May 2025. Embassy, London

Filing

When should I submit it?

Start trying three days before you land. Official wording describes a window of about three days and the FAQ says it includes your arrival date. FAQ See Timing for the differences in wording.

What information do I need?

Passport details, flight number and arrival date, your address in Thailand, travel purpose, a health declaration and an email address. FAQ The checklist breaks this down further.

Can I save it and finish later?

No, you complete it in one go. FAQ

Can someone else file for me?

Yes. You can file for family, children or group travellers, and agents can file if you authorise them. FAQ An agent's charge is for their service, not a government fee.

What languages is it in?

The FAQ lists English, Chinese, Japanese, Korean and Russian, "depending on implementation stage". FAQ Your answers must be in English whichever language you use. User guide

How many people can one submission cover?

Up to 10. FAQ

Who needs it

Do children need one?

Yes, including infants. FAQ

Do I need one for transit?

Not if you don't pass through immigration. If you leave the airport, you do. FAQ

Do long-term residents need one?

Yes. A Thai consulate lists long-term residents among those who must file and suggests selecting Thailand as country of residence. Consulate, Hong Kong

What about crew and diplomats?

The FAQ says crew don't need one, and non-Thai diplomatic passport holders do. FAQ See every case.

After you file

How long does the card last?

From when you submit it until you arrive, for a single entry. FAQ

What if I make a mistake?

Use "Update Arrival Card" for most fields. Name, nationality and date of birth are locked, and the FAQ adds passport number. If one of those is wrong, submit a new form. The most recent submission is the valid one. FAQ User guide

Do I need to print it?

No. The FAQ says a copy on a device is enough, though a printout helps if you won't have one. FAQ

I didn't receive my QR code. What now?

Speak to the immigration officer at your entry checkpoint. FAQ Before that, check your spam folder and the address you entered.

Will I get a reminder?

No. The system doesn't send them. FAQ

Is my data safe with the official system?

The FAQ says the system follows Thailand's Personal Data Protection Act, that access is limited to immigration and border authorities, and that data isn't shared externally. FAQ We can't independently verify that. This guide never receives your details.

Who can I ask for official help?

Email contact@tdac.immigration.go.th, or speak to airport or immigration staff on arrival. FAQ We can't look up or change a card.

Next upSources and open questionsWhat we checked, when, and what we couldn't confirm.