TDAC for Transit Passengers – The Simple Transit Rule Most Travelers Miss
Is Thailand on your itinerary for a layover? A TDAC for transit passengers is needed, you’re not alone in wondering if you need to complete one. Due to Thailand’s recent switch to Digital Arrival, there has been confusion about short stopovers.
It will help you understand when the TDAC is required – and when it isn’t – if you’re planning a brief stay in a Thai airport. Give us a call and let’s discuss your trip and make it smoother.
How Does TDAC Work?
A digital immigration form replacing the old paper-based TM6 card, TDAC stands for Thailand Digital Arrival Card. Typically, foreign travelers must complete it 72 hours before arriving in Thailand.
This form collects travel itinerary information, passport number, and accommodation information, which streamlines immigration procedures. What if you are only passing through Thailand and not technically entering it?
Is the TDAC required for transit passengers?
You can transit through Thailand in a variety of ways, so the answer depends on what you do.
TDAC Is Not Required When
The TDAC is not required if you are simply transiting through a Thai airport without going through immigration. It includes:
- Keeping within the international transit zone
- Checked baggage is not collected
- Leaving the airport without exiting
- Switching terminals requiring immigration checks is not allowed
You will not be officially admitted to Thailand if your passport is not stamped. If you are just passing through, you don’t need a TDAC.
What situations require TDAC?
Transit passengers must complete the TDAC if:
- For any reason, you leave the transit area
- Immigration is necessary, even for a short time
- Luggage is being collected and rechecked by you
- You change flights that require you to leave the airside
- You are transiting a land or maritime border
- Even for a few hours, you intend to stay outside the airport
All of these situations will qualify you as a regular entrant. As a result, TDAC becomes mandatory when you officially enter Thailand.
TDAC Transit Rules 2025
In 2025, TDAC is mandatory for every official entry into Thailand, including short transits that involve immigration checks. The rule is simple:
- No immigration = No TDAC
- Immigration = TDAC required
Submitting TDAC within 72 hours of arrival ensures smooth processing during your transit.
Transit scenarios that are common
Here’s a quick breakdown of typical scenarios and whether TDAC is needed:
Scenario: TDAC Required?
| Scenario | TDAC Required? |
|---|---|
| Layover under 6 hours in international transit zone | ❌ No |
| Layover with baggage re-check and passport control | ✅ Yes |
| Airport switch required exit and re-entry | ✅ Yes |
| Entering via land or ferry and continuing elsewhere | ✅ Yes |
When to Submit the TDAC?
To submit your TDAC for transit, follow these steps:
- As soon as you arrive in Thailand
- Every traveler – even children
- Whenever you come in, for every entry
By submitting it early (but within the 3-day window), you avoid stress and delays. When you have all your travel information ready, it takes just a few minutes.
Do I Need TDAC for Layover in Bangkok?
If your layover in Bangkok keeps you airside and you don’t pass through passport control, TDAC is not needed. However, if you must recheck baggage, switch terminals, or leave the airport, you are considered an entrant and must complete the TDAC before arrival.
If you’re planning to enter Thailand instead of just transiting, you may also want to review the Thailand Visa on Arrival Guide to understand the entry process more clearly
Confusion – Avoiding Tips
Check your ticket carefully: Do you need to return your checked baggage, or do you need to recheck it?
- You should ask your airline if you need to go through immigration during your layover
- Fill out the TDAC anyway if you are unsure – better safe than sorry!
- At the airport, avoid last-minute submissions
FAQs About TDAC for Transit
Conclusion
As soon as you understand the rules around the TDAC for transit passengers, they become simple:
- TDAC will not exist if immigration does not exist.
- TDAC is required for any immigration.
You can save time, hassle, and frustration by being prepared before your flight. Your layover can be short or long, but knowing what’s required will make your connection seamless and stress-free.
