Thailand has long been a favorite destination for Indian tourists — thanks to its vibrant culture, affordable luxury, beautiful beaches, and buzzing nightlife. As of May 1, 2025, the Thai government has implemented a new travel regulation to streamline its immigration process: the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC). This mandatory pre-arrival registration system replaces the older paper-based TM6 form and is now a requirement for all foreign nationals entering Thailand — including Indian passport holders.
Whether you’re planning a relaxing vacation in Phuket, a shopping spree in Bangkok, or a spiritual retreat in Chiang Mai, understanding the TDAC process is now an essential part of your travel checklist. This comprehensive guide explains what the TDAC is, who needs it, how to apply, and what Indian travelers should keep in mind.
✅ What is the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC)?
The TDAC is an online pre-arrival immigration form that must be filled out by non-Thai citizens before entering Thailand. It collects crucial information such as personal identity, travel details, accommodation during stay, and a basic health declaration.
The move toward digitization aims to:
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Improve processing time at immigration checkpoints.
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Enhance national security by better tracking international arrivals.
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Improve data accuracy for health and safety management.
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Eliminate the need for physical paperwork, especially the TM6 card.
👥 Who Must Complete the TDAC?
The TDAC is mandatory for all foreign nationals, regardless of nationality, visa type, or port of entry (air, land, or sea). This includes:
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Tourists
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Business travelers
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Individuals entering under visa-free or visa-on-arrival schemes
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Long-stay visa holders
❌ Who is Exempt?
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Travelers transiting through Thailand without passing through immigration control.
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Individuals entering Thailand with a Border Pass from neighboring countries.
🚨 Important: Indian tourists — even if traveling under the visa-exempt scheme — must complete the TDAC.
🌐 How to Apply for the TDAC – Step-by-Step Guide
Applying for the TDAC is completely free and can be done online in under 10 minutes.
1. Visit the Official TDAC Portal
Go to https://tdac.immigration.go.th
2. Fill Out the Online Form
Provide the following information:
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Personal Information: Full name, gender, nationality, date of birth
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Passport Details: Passport number, issuing country, expiration date
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Flight Information: Airline, flight number, expected date and time of arrival
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Accommodation: Hotel or residential address in Thailand
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Health Declaration: Confirm absence of contagious diseases or recent symptoms (like fever, cough, etc.)
3. Submit the Application
Once you’ve reviewed and confirmed all details, submit the form. There is no need to upload documents or photos.
4. Receive Your Confirmation and QR Code
After submission, you will receive a confirmation email with a QR code. This code will be scanned by immigration officers on arrival.
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You can print it or store it digitally on your phone.
5. Present the TDAC at Immigration
At the immigration counter in Thailand, present your passport along with the QR code from the TDAC confirmation. Your information will already be in the system, speeding up the verification process.
🕒 When Should You Submit the TDAC?
You must submit the TDAC within 72 hours (3 days) before your scheduled arrival in Thailand.
⏳ Tip: Try to apply at least 24–48 hours in advance to allow time for confirmation and to avoid any last-minute issues.
🇮🇳 Additional Entry Requirements for Indian Travelers
As an Indian tourist, there are a few extra things you should be aware of in addition to the TDAC:
🔹 1. Visa Policy
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Indian citizens can currently enter Thailand visa-free for up to 60 days (until further notice).
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However, the Thai government is considering reducing this period to 30 days due to rising concerns over visa misuse.
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For longer stays, or if you’re planning to work or study, apply for the appropriate visa in advance.
🧳 Always check the latest updates from the Embassy before traveling.
🔹 2. Proof of Funds
You may be asked to show financial proof on arrival:
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Minimum required: 20,000 THB per family.
This can be shown through:
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Cash
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Bank statements
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Credit card with limit proof
🔹 3. Return Ticket
Immigration may also ask for:
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A confirmed return ticket or an onward journey ticket (within your visa-free duration).
✈️ How Does TDAC Benefit Indian Travelers?
Here’s how the new system helps streamline your travel experience:
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| ✅ Online application | No paperwork at the airport |
| ✅ Faster immigration | Reduced queue times |
| ✅ Data accuracy | Minimizes manual errors |
| ✅ Health declaration | Supports quick emergency response |
| ✅ Free of charge | No hidden or extra costs |
🧳 Travel Tips for Indian Tourists Visiting Thailand
To make your journey seamless, keep these tips in mind:
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Bookmark the TDAC website for easy access.
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Double-check details before submitting — incorrect info may lead to entry denial.
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Carry printed & digital copies of all documents: TDAC QR code, flight tickets, hotel bookings, passport, etc.
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Install Thai travel apps like Grab (for transport), Wise (for currency exchange), and Google Translate (for language help).
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Respect local customs — especially when visiting temples and religious sites.
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Stay insured — consider getting travel insurance to cover health, accidents, and trip cancellations.
📌 Final Thoughts
Thailand’s TDAC system represents a positive shift toward a faster, safer, and smarter travel experience. As an Indian tourist, your role is simply to stay informed and comply with the new procedures. With your TDAC ready, you’ll breeze through immigration and spend more time enjoying the Land of Smiles.
So pack your bags, get your TDAC, and say “Sawasdee kha!” to your next adventure in Thailand 🇹🇭