Is the Thailand Digital Arrival Card Mandatory?
Everything you need to know about TDAC requirements and who must complete it
Yes, the TDAC is Mandatory for All Foreign Travelers
The Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) is mandatory for all foreign nationals entering Thailand, effective from May 1, 2025. This requirement applies regardless of your visa status, nationality, or mode of entry into the country.
Key mandatory requirements:
- All foreign passport holders must complete the TDAC
- Entry by air, land, or sea - all routes require TDAC
- Tourists, business travelers, and residents - everyone must comply
- Visa-exempt and visa-on-arrival travelers - TDAC still required
- Multiple entries - new TDAC needed for each entry
Limited Exceptions to TDAC Requirement
While the TDAC is mandatory for most travelers, there are very few exceptions
Transit Passengers
Travelers who remain airside and do not pass through Thai immigration control are exempt from TDAC requirements.
Learn MoreBorder Pass Holders
Individuals entering Thailand with a specific Border Pass for designated border crossings may be exempt.
Check RequirementsThai Nationals
Thai passport holders and permanent residents are not required to complete the TDAC when entering Thailand.
Learn MoreDiplomatic Personnel
Certain diplomatic and consular workers may be exempt from TDAC requirements based on their official status.
Check StatusWhen TDAC is Always Required
Understanding mandatory scenarios for TDAC completion
- All tourist visa holders must complete TDAC
- Visa-exempt tourists from 93 countries still need TDAC
- Short-term visitors regardless of stay duration
- Multiple tourist entries require new TDAC each time
- Business visa holders must complete TDAC
- Conference attendees and meeting participants
- Work permit holders entering Thailand
- Investment visa holders and entrepreneurs
- Retirement visa holders must complete TDAC
- Education visa students returning to Thailand
- Marriage visa holders and family members
- Long-term resident visa holders (LTR)
Consequences of Not Completing TDAC
Failure to complete the mandatory TDAC can result in serious entry complications
Entry Delays
Extended processing times at immigration checkpoints
Denied Entry
Possible refusal of entry into Thailand
Additional Screening
Mandatory completion at airport kiosks causing delays
Frequently Asked Questions About TDAC Mandatory Requirements
Common questions about Thailand Digital Arrival Card requirements
Yes, absolutely. Even if you're from a visa-exempt country and don't need a visa to enter Thailand, you still must complete the TDAC. The digital arrival card is separate from visa requirements and applies to all foreign nationals.
- All 93 visa-exempt countries must complete TDAC
- TDAC is required regardless of visa status
- No exceptions for short-term stays
Yes, you need a new TDAC for every entry. Even if you have a multiple-entry visa or frequently travel to Thailand, you must complete a fresh TDAC within 72 hours before each arrival.
- New TDAC required for each entry
- Previous TDAC submissions cannot be reused
- Submit within 72 hours of each arrival
You may face significant delays or entry denial. While some airports have assistance kiosks, these are for exceptional circumstances only and can cause long delays.
- Possible denial of entry into Thailand
- Mandatory completion at airport kiosks
- Extended processing times and delays
- Potential missed connections or appointments
Yes, every traveler needs their own TDAC. This includes children and infants with their own passports. However, parents can complete the TDAC on behalf of children under 12 years old.
- Individual TDAC required for each child
- Parents can submit for children under 12
- Group submissions available for families
- Each passport requires separate TDAC
Don't Risk Entry Complications - Complete Your TDAC Today
The Thailand Digital Arrival Card is mandatory for all foreign travelers. Ensure smooth entry by completing yours now.
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