TDAC Thailand Arrival Card for First-Time Travel – Complete Guide, Step-by-Step 2025

If this is your first trip to Thailand, you must fill out the TDAC (Thailand Digital Arrival Card) before you arrive. In this guide, you will learn what the TDAC is, how to submit a TDAC Thailand Arrival Card for first-time travel online, and how to find out whether your application has been approved.

How does TDAC work for first-time travelers?

A Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) is required for all foreign nationals entering Thailand electronically. Thailand now requires the electronic submission of the TM6 form in place of the older paper form.

Getting the TDAC completed correctly is essential for first-time travelers. This information is used by Thai immigration to verify your arrival details and streamline border control processes.

Can Anyone Submit a TDAC?

• Holders of non-Thai passports
• Air, land, and sea travelers
• Thailand visitors for the first time

It is mandatory to complete the TDAC. There is a possibility that entry will be delayed or rejected at immigration without it.

Thailand eArrival Card Benefits

FEATURE	TDAC (DIGITAL FORM)	TM6 (OLD PAPER FORM)
Submission method	Online	On arrival
Required for first-time	Yes	Previously optional
Review time	Before travel	At immigration counter
Accuracy	Validated online fields	Manual entry
Proof of submission	Email confirmation	Handwritten card

How to submit a TDAC for the first time online

To complete the Thailand arrival card online for the first time, follow these steps:

Step 1: Visit the TDAC website

Visit the official website for TDAC submissions.

Step 2: Choose an entry type

The type of entry you choose depends on whether you are entering by air, land, or sea.

Step 3: Enter your personal information

Please provide your full name, date of birth, nationality, and passport number.

Step 4: Provide travel information

The date of arrival, the port of entry, and the flight number should be included.

Step 5: Describe your accommodations

Your hotel or residence in Thailand’s name and address should be included.

Step 6: Upload your photo

Please submit a passport-size digital photo in .jpg or .png format.

Step 7: Confirm and submit

Make sure all information is reviewed. Wait for an email confirmation after submitting the form.

TDAC Submission Requirements

Prepare the following to complete the TDAC:

• The passport must be valid for at least six months
• Travel details (flight, border crossing, etc.) confirmed.
• Booking a hotel or obtaining a Thai address
• A recent passport-sized photo (in digital format)
• For confirmation, please provide a working email address

First-Time Traveler’s Guide to Thai Arrival Card

TDACs are required 72 hours before departure for first-time visitors. By submitting early, you will avoid last-minute issues at the airport or at the border.

Approval tips:

• Make sure the photo is high-quality and clear
• Passport and travel information should be double-checked
• Your confirmation should be kept in print or digital form
• Please use the same email address and travel information as on your ticket

Summary of Thai Arrival Card Step-by-Step

Digital Arrival Card Tutorial for Thailand

The following is a simplified guide to the Thailand digital arrival card:

• Each traveler must fill out one form
• There is no need for an app or software
• English is supported by the form
• It takes minutes to hours for a confirmation to arrive
• Upon entry, present the confirmation email (print or phone)

The Ultimate Travel Checklist

•  At least 72 hours before the flight, submit TDAC
•  Completed the travel details and passport correctly
•  Confirmed approval of the project
•  Confirmation printed or saved as a digital file
•  Prepare your passport and visa (if applicable)

FAQs About First-Time Traveler

Conclusion

For first-time travelers, the TDAC Thailand arrival card is required for entry into the country. When submitting the Thailand arrival card for the first time online, immigration processing is sped up. Ensure that your TDAC status is up-to-date before departing, and carefully follow all instructions.

You should complete your TDAC early and carry proof with you when you arrive in Thailand.