Do Children Need a TDAC for Thailand 2025? What Parents Must Know Before Flying

ByAdmin

If you’re planning a trip to Thailand with your family, one question often comes up: Do children need a TDAC Thailand Digital Arrival Card? The short answer is yes—all travelers, including infants and minors, are required to complete a TDAC before boarding their flight. This rule applies to nearly every non-Thai visitor and ensures a faster and smoother immigration process upon arrival.

While there are very few exceptions—such as returning Thai citizens or permanent residents—the general rule remains that every individual traveler must have their own TDAC form, no matter their age.

Do Children Need a TDAC

What Is a TDAC?

  • A Thai Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) is an online form required for immigration upon arrival in Thailand.
  • It replaces the old paper TM6 and streamlines the entry process for modern travelers.
  • Collects basic passenger info like name, passport number, flight details, health declaration, etc.

Rule for Children & Minors

  • Applies to all non-Thai travelers, regardless of age, from newborns to teenagers.
  • Each child must have a separate TDAC form submitted under their own passport details.
  • Twins or multiples? Fill out one form per child—they cannot be combined.
  • If a child holds Thai citizenship or permanent resident status, TDAC is usually not mandatory, but it’s best to verify with Thai Immigration in that case.

How to Complete a Child’s TDAC

A. Step-by-Step Guide

  • Use the official Thai e-Immigration portal.
  • Select “Add Passenger,” then choose “Passenger Type: Child/Infant”.

Fill in:

  • Full name (as per passport)
  • Passport number & nationality
  • Date of birth
  • Flight number, arrival flight, seat class (if needed)
  • Double-check all entries.
  • Submit; keep a PDF/email with a QR code for each child.

B. Common Pitfalls

  • Mismatched names: Always use no nicknames or middle names not in the passport.
  • Missing or blurred QR scans: Save the form as a PDF, don’t just take a screenshot.
  • Using one adult form only: Immigration rejects forms that aren’t unique per passenger.

Why It’s Required for Kids Too

  • Immigration control: Thailand needs records for every individual, even infants.
  • Health screening: Especially relevant during times of heightened border checks.
  • Family integrity: Linking children’s details with adult guardians helps authorities manage entry data.

Exemptions & Special Cases

  • Thai citizens/permanent residents: Generally exempt—but confirming via the official e-Immigration FAQ or embassy is recommended.
  • Transit passengers: If staying airside under 12 hours and not entering Thailand, you might skip TDAC—but it’s situational. Check with the airline and the Thai embassy.
  • Group tours: Many tour operators complete forms for all members, but independent travelers must do their own per-person submission.

Documents You Should Carry for Your Child Along with TDAC


Even after submitting the TDAC successfully, parents often forget that Thai immigration may ask for supporting documents for minors at the airport. To ensure zero delays, carry these with you:


Recommended Documents:

  1. Printed TDAC confirmation or QR code for your child
  2. Photocopy of child’s passport
  3. Copy of birth certificate (especially if surname differs from parents)
  4. Consent letter if only one parent is traveling
  5. Copy of parent/guardian’s passport and visa (if applicable)

After Submission—What to Do at the Airport

  • Show the TDAC QR code for each traveler at document check or the immigration queue.
  • An immigration officer will scan and verify and expedite your process.
  • If there’s an issue with your child’s form, they may ask for a passport or proof of guardianship/relationship.

FAQs about TDAC for Childrens

Each twin needs a separate form due to unique passport numbers.

Reapply immediately via the official site; no need to pay again.

Yes — for some nationalities, TDAC forms can be pre-linked with visa/ETA processes, but always verify the status on regional consulate sites.

Conclusion

Children need their own TDAC to enter Thailand—there are no age-based exemptions for foreign travelers. Make sure you’re clear on one thing. Do Children Need a TDAC? Proper and complete TDAC submissions help families breeze through immigration and avoid unnecessary delays. Always fill out one form per passport, retain the PDF/QR code safely, and double-check names to ensure a smooth experience.

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