Most TDAC problems are avoidable.
None of these takes long to prevent, and the first one can cost you money and your personal data.
Guide 05 of 06Last checked against official sources: See sources
Ten mistakes
What goes wrong, and what to do instead
Filing on a lookalike site
Their names look similar, so they're easy to land on from a search. Thai authorities say sites asking for payment aren't official. Tourism Ministry
Type the address yourself and check that it ends in
.go.th.Filing too early
A card sent weeks ahead falls outside the window. FAQ
Set a reminder for three days before you land. The system won't remind you. FAQ
Reusing an old card
Each card is good for one entry on the expected arrival date, even if you hold a multiple-entry visa. FAQ
File a new one for every entry, including a return from a side trip.
Assuming one card covers the family
Everyone needs their own entry, including babies. FAQ
Use group filing, with up to 10 people per submission. FAQ
Trusting the passport scan blindly
The scan is convenient, but the guide tells you to recheck what it reads. User guide Locked fields can't be fixed by updating.
Compare the preview with your passport, one character at a time.
Using an old passport number
A renewed passport has a new number, and the FAQ lists passport number among fields you can't update. FAQ
File with the passport you'll present. If it changes, submit a new card.
Mistyping your email
Your QR code goes to that address. Kiosks can't print it either; you photograph it from the screen. FAQ
Download the card right after you submit, and keep a copy on your phone.
Ignoring a changed plan
The FAQ says your submission must be accurate before entry, and that wrong details can lead to refusal at the officer's discretion. FAQ
Use "Update Arrival Card" when your flight or hotel changes.
Treating the card as a visa
Filing doesn't grant permission to enter or stay. User guide
Check your visa position separately with a Thai embassy.
Misjudging a transit
Airside connections don't need a card, but leaving the airport does. FAQ
If your bags need collecting or you change airports, plan to file.
If you've already paid
Paid a website for your card? Do these four things.
Check what you received
A press report quotes officials as saying data sent to fraudulent sites doesn't reach the official system. Khaosod English
File again for free
Use the official portal. If you file twice, only the most recent submission counts. FAQ
Call your bank
Ask your card issuer about disputing the charge, and watch for further charges or messages.
Report the site
Keep the URL, screenshots and messages. Thailand's tourism ministry lists the Cyber Police Hotline (1441), the Online Complaint Center (1212) and the Anti-Fake News Center. Tourism Ministry
What about travel agents?
An agent's fee is for their service, never for the card.
The official FAQ allows agents and tour leaders to file for clients who have authorised them, and says many travel companies offer this. FAQ
You never have to pay to get a TDAC. If someone files for you, confirm you've received the card and QR code by email, and check that the details match your passport.