Thailand Entry Update: TDAC Replaces TM6 – What You Need to Know
The Thailand immigration system has seen a major transformation in 2025 with the full implementation of the Thailand digital arrival card, replacing the long-used TM6 paper form for decades. TM6 was a standard part of entering Thailand; the digital shift signals a new era of efficiency, security, and traveler convenience, so what exactly has changed, and what does this mean for visitors between TDAC and TM6, and how is this change modernizing the way foreigners enter Thailand?
What was the TM6 form?
The TM6 form was a paper-based arrival and departure card that all international travelers were required to fill out before entering and leaving Thailand. It collected basic personal information, travel details, and the visitor’s address in Thailand. Immigration officers stamped the departure portion and retained the arrival ka card, which travelers had to keep during their stay.
Although the system has worked for many years, it has clear drawbacks:
- Long queues at immigration desks for manual checking
- Frequent form loss or errors due to poor handwriting
- Duplicative paperwork with other visa forms
- Environmental concerns from excessive paper use
Introduction of TDAC: A Digital Upgrade
Starting on May 1, 2025, the Thai government officially replaced the TM6 form with the Thailand digital arrival card. TDAC is an online arrival registration system that travelers must complete at least 3 days before entering Thailand. It collects similar information to TM6 but in a digital, streamlined format. These changes mark a significant modernization in Thailand’s border control, aligning the country with global trends in digital immigration processing.
Key differences between TDAC and TM6
Let’s break down the major areas where TDAC and TM6 differ:
| Feature | TM6 (Old System) | TDAC (New System) |
|---|---|---|
| Format | Paper-based | Fully digital |
| Submission Time | On arrival | Before arrival (within 72 hours) |
| Data Entry | Handwritten | Online form, autofill options |
| Group Submissions | Not available | Group/family applications possible |
| Health Declaration | Not included | Integrated |
| Update Option | Not possible | Can edit and update online before arrival |
| Confirmation | Physical slip | Digital confirmation via email |
| Environmental Impact | High paper use | Eco-friendly, paperless process |
Why did Thailand replace the TM6?
Several reasons motivated this shift:
Improve efficiency
TDAC cuts down the processing time at immigration checkpoints. By pre-screening travel data, immigration officers can verify documents faster, minimising long queues at airports and land borders.
Enhanced data security
Digital records are less likely to be lost, damaged, or forged. The TDAC system ensures secure handling of personal information with encryption and cloud storage, offering more reliability than paper slips.
Travel convenience
Travelers can fill out the TDAC form at their convenience online. Those travelling in groups can use the group submission option, making the experience seamless, especially for families.
Health and safety
TDAC includes a health declaration section where travelers must declare recent countries visited and any symptoms. This is usual for monitoring potential health threats like yellow fever or pandemic risks.
Do you still need a visa with TDAC?
Yes, TDAC is not a visa. It is a mandatory arrival form required in addition to your visa, if one is needed. Even travelers under visa exemption must complete the TDAC prior to arrival. It serves as a registration process for entering Thailand, not a replacement for the visa approval.
What happens if you don’t fill out TDAC?
Failure to complete the TDAC form before arrival may lead to:
- Delay at immigration counters
- Possible denial of entry if essential health/vaccination information is missing
- miss flights or layovers due to extended processing time
Unlike TM6, which could be hastily filled out on the plane, TDAC demands prior action. Travelers are expected to take responsibility for submitting accurate information in advance.
How to make the transition easy
For those familiar with TM6, adapting to TDAC is straightforward. Here is how to make it smooth:
- Bookmark the official TDAC portal
- Fill out the form 3 days before travel
- Double-check your information before submission
- Save the confirmation on your phone and cloud storage
Will TM30 still be needed?
Yes, while TDAC replaces TM6, the TM30 used for property owners to notify authorities when hosting foreigners remains mandatory. It is important to understand that the TDAC is for travelers, while TM30 responsibilities lie with landlords, hotels, or accommodation providers.
FAQs About TM6
Conclusion
The move from TM6 to TDAC is more than just a format change; it is a step towards smarter, faster, and more reliable border management. For international travelers, it brings ease and flexibility. For Thai immigration, it improves efficiency, health tracking, and overall service quality.
As global travel evolves, Thailand’s adoption of TDAC demonstrates its commitment to digital transformation. If you are planning to visit Thailand in or after May 2025, don’t wait until the last minute. Prepare early, complete your TDAC, and make the experience a smoother, paper-free arrival.
