Thailand TDAC for Thai Residents and Dual Passport Holders – TDAC for Thai Citizens Explained (2025 Update)

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Do Thai citizens need TDAC in 2025? Thai residents and dual passport holders are uncertain about Thailand’s new digital entry system.

It’s important to know the latest TDAC rules for dual nationality in Thailand, regardless of whether you have a Thai or foreign passport. The Thailand arrival card (TDAC for Thai citizens) for Thai passport holders applies in certain situations and not in others.

TDAC for Thai Citizens

What Is Thailand TDAC?

TM6 will be replaced by the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) in 2024, making it a digital-first entry registration system. If you intend to enter Thailand by air, land, or sea, you must complete the TDAC before you arrive.

2025 Key Facts:

  • For tourists and business travelers with foreign passports, TDAC is now 100% mandatory.
  • Thailand’s immigration, customs, and public health databases are integrated.
  • TDAC are not required for Thai passport holders unless they use a foreign passport.

Expats and dual citizens: Do they need TDAC?

Here’s where confusion often arises. Whether you are a Thai expat living abroad or a Thai who holds two passports:

It’s simple:

  • TDAC for Thai citizens entering Thailand with Thai passports is generally not required.
  • Thai citizens or dual nationals entering Thailand with foreign passports must follow TDAC rules for dual nationality.
Traveler Type Passport Used at Entry TDAC Required?
Thai Citizen Using Thai Passport Thai Passport No
Thai Citizen Using Foreign Passport Foreign Passport (e.g., USA) Yes
Dual National Using Foreign Passport Foreign Passport Yes
Thai PR Holder Using Foreign Passport Foreign Passport Yes
Thai Citizen Re-entering After Long Stay Abroad Thai Passport No

Note: It is important to note that using a Thai passport at immigration bypasses TDAC. You must complete TDAC if you are using a foreign passport for visa exemption or tourist visa purposes.

TDAC Rules for Travelers of Dual Nationality

Immigration expects consistency if you hold both Thai and non-Thai passports:

  • Entering Thailand: Your passport must be the same for entering and leaving the country.
  • Using a Foreign Passport: Dual nationals using foreign passports will be treated as foreign travelers.
  • Switching Passports Mid-Trip: Not allowed. You must leave with the passport you entered with.

It Matters Because:

  • In case of visa-free stays (e.g., 30-60 days on US or EU passports), Thai citizens with foreign passports may choose TDAC.
  • It is possible for Thai residents to avoid filling out TDAC by showing their Thai national ID along with their passport.

Thai Expats and Dual Passport Holders: How to Deal with TDAC

For travel convenience, you may already use your non-Thai passport if you live abroad long-term. Here’s a quick guide:

TDAC Process Step-by-Step:

  1. Make sure you know which passport you will use to enter Thailand.
  2. Visit the official TDAC website if it’s foreign.
  3. Please submit your arrival information, flight details, and accommodation details.
  4. Before boarding your flight, download the TDAC QR code.
  5. In Thailand, present the QR code at immigration.

TDAC Documents Required for Dual Nationals

  • The foreign passport
  • Ticket for a flight
  • Thai Address or Hotel Booking
  • QR Code (Digital or Printed Backup) for TDAC

Misconceptions Cleared: TDAC for Thai Passport Holders

Travelers often ask:

Do Thai passport holders need to fill out TDAC?

No, as long as you use the same Thai passport for entry and exit. The processing of Thai citizens entering with Thai passports is handled by a separate system that does not require TDAC.

Why Thailand implemented TDAC rules in 2025

  • By using AI and biometric data, border control can be streamlined.
  • The goal is to improve the integration of health declarations (such as COVID or the monitoring of future diseases).
  • Supporting Thailand’s Smart City and Smart Immigration initiatives.

FAQs About TDAC for Thai citizens

No, if you have a Thai passport. When entering with a non-Thai passport, Thai nationals only need TDAC.

Yes, of course. If you use a passport at entry, you must also use it at exit. TDAC is required if you are using a foreign passport.

The airline may deny you boarding or immigration may delay you. If necessary, complete TDAC in advance.

Conclusion

  • Using a foreign passport is the only way to apply for Thailand TDAC for Thai residents and dual passport holders.
  • To avoid legal problems, choose the same passport for arrival and departure.
  • Avoid misinformation by staying updated through official Thai government channels.

Double-check your passport choice before traveling if you’re an expat, dual citizen, or long-term resident of Thailand.

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