TDAC After Arrival in Thailand – Can You Complete It with a Thai SIM Card at the Airport?
There are a lot of people who forget to fill out the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) when flying to Thailand. Upon landing, many travelers realize that this form is now required by Thai immigration. Is it too late to complete it? Would it be possible to use a Thai SIM card for tourists at the airport in order to get it done?

It’s important to understand what the TDAC is, why it matters, and how to complete TDAC after arrival, if necessary.
Why Is It Important to Have a TDAC?
The Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) replaces the old paper TM6 card with an online form. Before entering the country, travelers must fill out the form. Basic information such as passport details, travel purpose, flight, accommodation, and contact information is collected.
It is possible that travelers will face delays at immigration if they do not submit the TDAC form – or in rare cases, entry will be denied until the form is completed. It is now a standard practice for airlines to remind passengers to complete it before departure, but sometimes things get overlooked.
What happens if you land in Thailand without it?
Are you still able to complete TDAC after arrival?
Yes, you can complete the TDAC after arrival, but you’ll need an internet connection and your personal information.
Free Wi-Fi is now available at most international airports in Thailand, but the signal can be weak or overloaded. Many travelers use a Thai SIM card for tourists as soon as they land – not just for maps and communication, but also to complete important online steps like the TDAC.
You should get in touch as soon as possible if you forgot to fill it out earlier.
Is it possible to get a Thai SIM card before completing the TDAC?
Yes, absolutely. Mobile operators at the airport don’t require the TDAC QR code to sell you a SIM card, so you can get one before TDAC submission. Most travelers land, buy a SIM card at the airport, and then complete the TDAC via mobile data within minutes.
It usually takes about five minutes to complete the passport, payment, and setup process. Tourists often use kiosks when they need data for TDAC or e-visa verification.
TDAC Airport SIM Card: Is It Reliable?
You can get connected immediately by buying an airport SIM card in Thailand. The major providers, such as AIS, DTAC, and TrueMove, have counters in all major airports, and their tourist plans offer high-speed internet – perfect for submitting TDAC forms quickly.
Activate your SIM card, then visit the TDAC website, fill out the form, and submit it. Upon confirmation, you will receive a QR code, which you can show at immigration.
Is it possible to fill out TDAC without internet?
If you’re wondering how to fill out TDAC without the internet, I’m sorry to tell you that it is not possible. Due to the fact that it is a digital form submitted online, internet access is required. If you forgot to do it earlier, you need a mobile data plan or stable Wi-Fi access.
A Thai SIM card is your best backup if the airport Wi-Fi doesn’t work or is too slow.
Do I need to scan the TDAC QR code after landing?
When you complete the form, the system generates a TDAC QR code that immigration officers scan at the counter. If you complete the TDAC after arrival using your SIM card or Wi-Fi, be sure to:
- Screenshot the QR code.
- If you receive a confirmation email, save it.
- You can also save the QR image to your gallery.
- Just minutes later, you’ll need it at immigration.
What If You Can’t Submit the TDAC Immediately?
If you’re truly stuck—no internet, no SIM, no Wi-Fi—immigration officers at some airports may redirect you to a help desk or Wi-Fi zone. In rare cases, kiosks are available for last-minute submissions. But don’t count on it.
To avoid stress, plan ahead. If you didn’t fill it in advance, buy a Thai SIM card immediately after landing and complete the TDAC before heading to the immigration line.
Tips for TDAC after arrival
- If you forgot the TDAC, don’t panic – it’s easy to fix.
- Try airport Wi-Fi or a SIM card booth.
- Prepare your passport, flight, and accommodation details.
- You should always save or screenshot your TDAC QR code.
FAQs About TDAC after arrival
Conclusion
If you forgot to fill out the TDAC before your flight, you can still do so when you arrive. If you have a Thai SIM card for tourists or reliable airport Wi-Fi, the process is quick and easy. Make sure you have your details ready and save your TDAC QR code after landing to avoid delays at immigration.
