Thailand is set to implement a significant change to its immigration procedures by making the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) mandatory for all international visitors starting May 1, 2025. This new digital system will replace the traditional paper-based TM6 arrival card, aiming to streamline the entry process, enhance security, and improve the overall travel experience.
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| Thailand Makes Digital Arrival Card Mandatory for International Visitors Starting May 2025 |
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What Is The Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC)?
The TDAC is an online form that all non-Thai nationals entering Thailand will be required to complete before their arrival. It is the digital equivalent of the paper-based TM6 form that travelers typically filled out on the plane or upon arrival at immigration checkpoints.
Why Is Thailand Implementing The TDAC?
The Thai government aims to modernize its immigration process and align with global travel trends by introducing the TDAC. The key objectives behind this move include:
1) Streamlining Entry Procedures: Eliminating the need for paper forms will reduce processing times at immigration counters, leading to a faster and more efficient entry experience for travelers.
2) Enhancing Security: The digital system will allow for more efficient tracking of visitor data, potentially strengthening border security.
3) Reducing Paperwork: Moving to a digital system is an environmentally friendly initiative that will significantly reduce paper waste.
4) Improving Data Accuracy: Digital forms are less prone to errors and illegible handwriting compared to paper forms, leading to more accurate data collection.
5) Better Preparedness: Pre-arrival digital submission allows immigration authorities to have advance information about incoming travelers.
Who Needs To Complete The TDAC?
The TDAC will be mandatory for all non-Thai nationals entering Thailand by air, land, or sea. This includes:
a) Tourists
b) Business travelers
c) Individuals visiting family or for other purposes
d) Travelers from both visa-exempt countries and those requiring a visa
Exceptions
1) Transit Passengers: Foreigners transiting through Thailand who do not pass through immigration control are likely to be exempt.
2) Border Pass Holders: Individuals entering Thailand using a specific "Border Pass" for designated border crossings may also be exempt.
How To Apply For The TDAC
Travelers will need to complete the TDAC online via the official government portal, which is expected to be accessible through a dedicated website (currently reported as https://tdac.immigration.go.th/).
The process is expected to involve the following steps:
1) Access the Portal: Visit the official TDAC website.
2) Registration: You may need to register an account.
3) Complete the Form: Provide necessary personal and travel information, including:
4) Full name, nationality, passport details (number, expiry date)
5) Date of birth
6) Contact information (email, phone number)
7) Flight number or mode of transport and port of entry
8) Purpose of visit
9) Accommodation address in Thailand
10) Potentially, a basic health declaration and details of countries visited in the past 14 days.
11) Submission: Once all information is filled in accurately, submit the form online.
12) Confirmation: Upon successful submission, travelers will receive a confirmation, likely via email, which may include a QR code or a digital document.
When To Complete The TDAC
The TDAC must be submitted within 72 hours (three days) prior to your arrival in Thailand. It is advisable to complete the form as soon as your travel plans are confirmed to avoid any last-minute complications.
What Happens After Submission?
After submitting the TDAC, you will receive a confirmation.21 You will need to present this confirmation (either digitally on your phone or as a printed copy) along with your passport to the immigration officers upon arrival in Thailand for verification.
What If You Forget To Complete The TDAC?
Failure to complete the TDAC before arrival could lead to delays and additional screening at the immigration checkpoints. While it might be possible to fill out the form upon arrival in some circumstances, this is likely to be a slower process and could potentially cause significant inconvenience.
Is There A Fee For The TDAC?
The Thai government has stated that the TDAC will be free of charge for all travelers. Be cautious of any unofficial websites or services that may try to charge a fee for this process.
Benefits Of The TDAC For Travelers:
1) Convenience: No more fumbling with paper forms on arrival.
2) Faster Processing: Streamlined immigration procedures can lead to shorter wait times.
3) Reduced Stress: Completing the form in advance allows travelers to be better prepared for arrival.
4) Accessibility: The online system is expected to be multilingual, catering to a diverse range of travelers.
Important Considerations For Travelers
1) Ensure you have all your travel documents, including your passport and flight details, readily available when filling out the TDAC.
2) Double-check all the information you provide on the form for accuracy to avoid any issues.
3) Keep a digital or printed copy of the confirmation email or QR code easily accessible upon arrival.
4) Stay updated on any official announcements or guidelines from the Thai Immigration Bureau regarding the TDAC.
5) Be wary of unofficial websites or services offering to complete the TDAC for a fee. The official process is free.
In Conclusion
The mandatory Thailand Digital Arrival Card marks a significant step towards modernizing Thailand's entry procedures for international visitors. By implementing this digital system, Thailand aims to enhance efficiency, security, and the overall travel experience. Travelers planning to visit Thailand from May 1, 2025, onwards must familiarize themselves with this new requirement and ensure they complete the TDAC within the stipulated timeframe before their arrival.
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